At just 21, Monty Kelly is already carving out an impressive path in tenpin bowling. A dedicated athlete from the South East, Monty channels discipline, resilience and passion into a sport that has given him purpose, confidence, and lifelong friendships. As a neurodivergent bowler competing at national level, his journey is about far more than strikes and scores.
Finding a Passion
Monty’s bowling journey began in 2019 when he was 13 years old. Looking for a new hobby, he found himself drawn to tenpin bowling after watching Jason Belmonte on television.
“I found Belmo’s two‑handed style really interesting,” Monty explains.
That curiosity quickly grew into obsession as he began watching other legends of the sport, including EJ Tackett, Norm Duke and Pete Weber. Like many young bowlers, the idea of witnessing, or even rolling a perfect game captured his imagination.
After Covid restrictions eased, Monty visited Guildford Bowl, where seeing Dan Harding and Ben Robinson in action inspired him to take the next step.
“Watching them made me want to join the YBC there, that’s when things really started.”
Bowling Heroes and Inspirations
When asked about his favourite professional bowler, Monty doesn’t hesitate.
“I love EJ Tackett’s game, there’s a reason he’s one of the best in the world.”
Closer to home, Monty also credits his coaches, Ritchie and Ray Teece of Teece’s Strike Shack, as major influences.
“Ritchie is a huge inspiration to me. Being coached by someone at that level pushes me to improve every session.”
Growing Stronger Through Challenge
As a neurodivergent athlete with apraxia, Monty has faced challenges that require adaptability and mental strength. Apraxia can affect coordination between the brain and limbs, making shot control and in‑game adjustments more difficult.
One of the biggest turning points in his development has been bowling on sport patterns.
“They force you to be more accurate and focused. It’s tough, and I can get frustrated, but I’m working hard on my mental game.”
Monty now competes on the English Sport Bowling Tour (ESBT), travelling the country, testing himself against strong fields, and building friendships along the way. Locally, he bowls in the Gatwick Tristar’s League and Airport Sport Scratch Singles League where a variety of sport patterns keep him learning and improving.
Equipment of Choice
Brand loyalty comes easily to Monty.
“I love Motiv. My favourites are the Venom and Thrill ranges.”
Advice for Neurodivergent Bowlers
Monty’s message for other neurodivergent people interested in bowling is clear and empowering:
“Get some coaching and train what you’re taught. You have to put the hard work in to earn the rewards.”
His own routine is demanding, training at least five times a week and bowling in leagues three times weekly, but his mindset stays simple.
“Remember, it’s you against the pins.”
More Than a Sport
Bowling has shaped Monty far beyond competition.
“It’s given me a purpose and helped me focus on succeeding. I’ve made so many friends up and down the country, it’s such a sociable sport.”
Bowling provides an inclusive and welcoming space for neurodivergent people, offering routine, acceptance, and shared enjoyment in a way that often feels less like a sport and more like an extension of family.
Match‑Day Mindset
Monty keeps his pre‑competition rituals straightforward and intentional. On the way to tournaments, he visualises success and focuses on executing perfect shots. Music plays a key role in calming his mind.
“I listen to happy music and try not to overthink. During games, I don’t really look at the scores, that usually makes things worse.”
Dream Destinations
If he could train anywhere in the world, Monty would head straight to some of bowling’s most iconic venues.
“The National Bowling Stadium in Reno, Dreambowl in Munich and definitely Sweden. There are so many great bowlers there.”
Beyond the Lanes
If Monty ever swapped sports for a day, he’d try something completely different.
“Boxing or football.”
Eyes on the Future
Monty’s goals are ambitious and realistic.
“My ultimate goal is to make it onto the PBA Tour.”
Along the way, he’s aiming to finish in the top three of the ESBT, compete in a Swedish event, and progress into PBA Regionals. With talent, determination, and a relentless work ethic on his side, Monty is proving that neurodiversity is not a limitation, it is part of what makes his journey, and his bowling, so powerful.