Competitive Edge Bowling LLC Introduce
For serious and aspiring bowlers across Connecticut, having the right equipment and expert guidance is paramount to success on the lanes. Competitive Edge Bowling LLC, strategically situated inside Lessard Lanes in Plainville, CT, is not just a sporting goods store—it is a specialized bowling supply shop and professional pro shop that has become New England’s trusted source for custom bowling services and coaching since 2004. This small business is founded on the principle that customizing equipment to a bowler's unique physical mechanics and technique is the key to unlocking their highest scoring potential.
The pro shop, helmed by Owner/Operator Dirk Ridley and his expert team, boasts over 40 years of combined experience in the sport. They cater to bowlers of all skill levels, from beginners looking to purchase their first custom-fitted ball to seasoned tournament players seeking high-precision drilling and advanced ball maintenance. The core mission here is to provide a comprehensive, personalized service that goes far beyond a simple transaction. Patrons consistently praise the depth of knowledge, the time taken for proper fitting, and the noticeable improvement in their game after just one consultation or lesson. This focus on personalized service and expertise is what makes Competitive Edge Bowling a standout destination in the Connecticut bowling community.
Competitive Edge Bowling LLC is conveniently located at 136 New Britain Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA. Crucially, the pro shop is situated inside Lessard Lanes, providing the ideal setup where customers can immediately test out their new equipment or apply their coaching on the lanes right after their service appointment.
The location offers essential accessibility features for all customers:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring easy entry into the facility.
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot, providing convenience for all patrons visiting Lessard Lanes and the pro shop.
- Easy payment options, including acceptance of Credit cards and Debit cards.
Being housed within a functioning bowling alley adds a layer of convenience and practical advantage, allowing the professionals to easily observe a customer's technique and ensure the new equipment or services truly enhance their performance.
Competitive Edge Bowling specializes exclusively in high-end bowling equipment, maintenance, and instruction, offering a suite of services unmatched by general sporting goods stores. Their offerings are designed to maximize the performance and longevity of a bowler's arsenal.
- Professional Ball Fitting and Drilling: This is a cornerstone service where technicians, after a thorough "Bowler Evaluation" (noting ball speed, rev rate, axis rotation, etc.), take up to twelve or more measurements to engineer a custom fit. They use highly accurate equipment like the Ovalmatic Drill Press to ensure consistency and precision.
- New & Used Bowling Ball Sales: Offering a wide variety of balls from top brands like Ebonite, Hammer, Storm, Track, Columbia, and Brunswick. New ball purchases include professional fitting and drilling at a discounted rate, often saving up to 70% off retail prices. Used balls also come with a 60-day guarantee on plug work and drilling.
- Ball Resurfacing: Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment, including the Haus Resurfacing System, to restore the ball’s original performance and surface consistency, recommended every 30-40 games.
- Oil Extraction / Reviving: Using a specialized Rejuvinator and Revivor unit to remove deep lane oil from reactive coverstocks via thermal reaction, restoring the ball's original hook potential and consistency, recommended every 40-50 games.
- Finger Grip Replacement: Replacing finger grips annually to improve comfort, ensure a consistent feel, and enhance ball rotation for better scores.
- Custom Thumb Systems: Offering advanced solutions like the Vise IT System or a proprietary "blueprint" process to copy a bowler's exact thumb specifications across all their balls.
- Professional Coaching and Lessons: Providing tailored instruction to help bowlers of all levels improve their technique and game strategy. Customers report significant improvement after just one lesson.
- Accessories Sales: Offering a full range of bowling accessories, bags, shoes, and maintenance products.
Competitive Edge Bowling stands out in the Connecticut market not only for its specialized inventory but also for its commitment to technical excellence and personalized customer experience.
- Expert Staff: The team, particularly Owner/Operator Dirk Ridley, is highly experienced (40+ years in bowling) and provides personalized service, taking the time to watch a bowler's technique before and after a service to ensure maximum satisfaction, as highlighted in glowing customer reviews.
- Customization to Maximize Performance: The pro shop uses advanced drilling and layout methods, such as Mo Pinel's Dual Angle layout method, to fine-tune the ball's reaction based on the bowler's unique axis rotation, speed, and desired trajectory.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: Featuring industry-leading tools like the Haus Resurfacing System and the Ovalmatic Drill Press, which ensure accuracy, consistency, and a professional level of equipment maintenance.
- "Pro Shop That Cares": The business operates on a philosophy of "caring" for the bowler's success, focusing on engineering a perfect fit for comfort and performance rather than simply selling a product.
- Guaranteed Work: Offering a 60-day guarantee on all plug work and drilling for new and used balls, providing peace of mind for Connecticut customers.
- Coaching and Education: The coaching services provide the practical knowledge required to use high-tech equipment effectively, ensuring that the investment in a custom ball translates directly into higher scores.
- Convenience of Location: Being situated inside Lessard Lanes allows for immediate, on-site testing and consultation, a major advantage over standalone pro shops.
To schedule a professional fitting, book a coaching session, or inquire about ball maintenance services, please contact Competitive Edge Bowling LLC directly:
Address: 136 New Britain Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA (Inside Lessard Lanes)
Phone: (860) 747-8700
Mobile Phone: +1 860-747-8700
Appointments are highly recommended, as the personalized services require dedicated time and attention from the expert staff. Business hours are typically Monday through Saturday, 12 PM - 6 PM, but it is best to confirm directly before visiting.
For any Connecticut resident serious about bowling, Competitive Edge Bowling LLC is worth choosing because it represents the pinnacle of specialized expertise in the region. Unlike general sporting goods stores that may sell balls and accessories, this small business offers a deep, professional commitment to improving the individual bowler's game. Customer testimonials consistently highlight the key difference: the staff, particularly Dirk, takes the necessary time to observe, educate, and precisely customize the equipment. This level of personalized care, referred to as being "the best and most considerate," translates into a measurable improvement in performance, which is the ultimate goal of any dedicated bowler.
The combination of professional coaching, state-of-the-art drilling and maintenance equipment (like the Haus Resurfacing System for ball consistency), and a guaranteed custom fit makes Competitive Edge Bowling the only pro shop a serious Connecticut bowler needs. By choosing this location, you are not just buying a ball; you are investing in a comprehensive service dedicated to elevating your technique and optimizing your equipment for competitive excellence. It is the definitive choice for bowlers across New England who seek a true competitive edge.
Competitive Edge Bowling LLC Details
From the business
- Small business
Service options
- In-store shopping
- Onsite services
- Delivery
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Competitive Edge Bowling LLC Photos





Competitive Edge Bowling LLC Location
Competitive Edge Bowling LLC
136 New Britain Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA
Competitive Edge Bowling LLC Reviews
knowledgegamecouplequestions
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I had an appointment with Dirk to get fitted for my 1st bowling ball. I travelled pretty far to specifically go to Competitive Edge because of the reviews I've read. It did not disappoint. Dirk took great care of me and took the time to watch my technique and grip to determine the best ball and grip placement. He even came to watch me after it was done to make sure I was satisfied. Great knowledge and customer service.
February 24 · Brad BenkleI cannot say enough good things about Dirk and team! They welcomed me as a new bowler looking for lessons. After just the first lesson, my game improved so much. They took the time to get me into a ball that would suit me well and be very usable. I've had balls drilled in a couple of places now and can say Dirk has been by far the best and most considerate I've found. Competitive Edge has become my pro shop for all future business and I highly recommend it become yours too!
May 18 · Savannah UllrichIn August, I'd made an appointment with Dirk to discuss equipment options, after a 20 year hiatus from bowling. Dirk took his time with me, asking how I used to bowl, what I'm looking to do, etc.After looking at several different balls, Dirk recommended the Radical Outer Limits Pearl, and come to find out, this was the perfect ball for me and how I throw. After bowling in a doubles league for 14 weeks, I'm averaging 201. After the holidays, I'll be returning to Dirk for a ball to compliment the Outer Limits.Dirk, thank you so much, for pointing me in the right direction with regards to a ball, shoes and bag. I'm back in action and look forward to it every week. I'll see you after the holidays for another ball!
December 06 · Justin PutnamDirk left his lunch aside to lend a hand and drilled my new Motiv Sky Raptor ball; got me right in and drilled it perfect...no adjustments needed. Got a free game to test the ball out, too! He's got my business, moving 4ward.
July 18 · DrummerDirk is the the BEST. Great prices, even better service. Knowledge is off the charts.
September 14 · Morgan Blackstone
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