Brent Abbott was born into a mostly silent world. His parents, both deaf from birth taught Brent sign language at a very early age. Fortunate to be born with the gift of hearing, he was able to communicate with everyone, family and friends alike. Brent said the deaf “have their own type of unique culture”. He stated he was blessed because his parents were responsible for instilling a “never give up” attitude in their son that has stuck with him throughout adulthood.

It was that same attitude that helped Brent Abbott of Vienna, Maryland capture the national singles handicap championship of the National Deaf Bowling Association recently in Las Vegas. His mother rolled extremely well also, finishing third in her division. Brent has only been bowling competitively for the last 5 years, doing mostly the “duckpin thing” as a youth. Brent believes he is possibly the first CODA (child of deaf adults) to win the national title in the association’s history.

The tournament is a step ladder format, with the winner of each head to head match advancing up the ladder. Brent was seeded fifth out of eight after the qualifying round. He averaged about 220 through the early rounds and eventually found himself headed into the championship against Bill Cooper. It was then, he said “I got a little nervous and the butterflies started dancing”. His first shot went a little deep and he left a single pin, which he converted for a spare. Then, he sat down and said to himself “you can do this” and he remembered the way his parents had supported all his efforts, throughout his entire life. He took a deep breath and promptly threw 11 strikes in a row for a 290 game and with it, won the national championship.

Brent Abbott is a class act. His love for his parents and his son can be seen all over his face. He is the real deal and come next June, he will be ready to defend the title of national champion.
(Brent Abbott is a member of Greater Chesapeake USBCA)