Meet The Experts

Our highly trained and dedicated staff is what sets Bowlers Advantage Pro Shop apart from our competition.  Each staff member is an IBPSIA Certified Pro Shop Technician (International Bowling Pro Shops & Instructors Association) – for this certification each staff member attended an intensive 32 hour hands-on training class.  We also stay “in the know” by attending manufacturer seminars and industry training clinics on a regular basis to ensure continued education in our ever evolving sport.

We are extremely proud of our staff as we believe that without them, we would not be successful at providing “Experienced Striking Results” for our customers!

Manager

Chris Tomlinson attended Vincennes University (2004-2006) majoring in Bowling Industry Management.  Chris bowled collegiately while in college, participating with the team to win a NJCAA national title in 2006.  After college Chris began his Bowling Pro Shop career with Bowlers Advantage from 2006-2009.  He then worked for Jenxxx Pro Shop which later became McCorvey’s Bowling World from 2009-2025.  He is now back with BAPS bringing with him a wealth of knowledge in fitting and drilling.  Chris is looking forward to helping our customers with excellent customer service and pro shop knowledge for many years to come!

Chris is currently a Level 2 coach.  He plans to attain his Bronze and Silver coaching certifications in the near future.  His personal bowling accomplishments include fifteen 300 games and two 800 series with his highest series being 827.

Chris is married with two children, a son and a daughter.  When he is not working the pro shop or bowling, he loves to spend time with his family or chasing the white ball around on the golf course.

Founder

michelle head picMichelle Rakow is the founder of Bowlers Advantage Pro Shops, LLC, along with her husband Kelly Rakow.  She has been in the bowling business since working at a bowling center when she was a youth bowler.  After 32 years of operating BAPS, she sold the business to JK Pro Shop Enterprises in July, 2025.  Michelle plans to help out the new ownership within a transition phase to ensure that our loyal BAPS customers do not feel any hiccups along the way.

Michelle plans to continue offering bowling lessons – she can be reached at 615-482-7037.