Born: 1974 (Cheektowaga, New York)
Biography:
Elizabeth Ann Johnson, known as Liz Johnson, was born on May 2, 1974, in Cheektowaga, New York. She is an American professional bowler who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Johnson’s career has been characterized by numerous accolades, championships, and breakthroughs, making her one of the most successful bowlers in history.
Johnson’s journey to bowling greatness began at a young age. She showcased her athletic prowess in youth softball, excelling as a pitcher throughout her high school years at Niagara-Wheatfield High School in Sanborn, New York. Despite her success in softball, Johnson’s true passion lay in bowling. In 1992, shortly after graduating high school, she secured a victory at the prestigious Coca-Cola Youth Bowling Championships in the Girls’ Scratch division, foreshadowing her future achievements in the sport.
Johnson’s talent and determination to pursue bowling as a career led her to Morehead State University, where she bowled at the collegiate level. In her first year, she made an immediate impact, earning both Rookie of the Year and Collegiate Bowler of the Year honors in 1993. However, Johnson made the bold decision to leave college after just one year to fully dedicate herself to her professional bowling aspirations.
In her quest for excellence, Johnson joined the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) Tour in 1995. It didn’t take long for her to establish herself as a force to be reckoned with. Throughout her career on the PWBA Tour, Johnson has amassed an extraordinary record. She claimed 11 victories before the organization suspended operations in 2003. Her triumphs included a remarkable six U.S. Women’s Open titles, showcasing her dominance in the sport.
Despite the temporary discontinuation of the PWBA, Johnson’s determination never wavered. When the PWBA Tour was reborn in 2015, she returned to the lanes with unwavering focus. Her comeback was nothing short of extraordinary, as she captured an additional 11 PWBA Tour titles, including five more major championships, which brought her total to an impressive 25 titles. This remarkable achievement includes 22 titles won on the PWBA Tour and three major titles earned during the tour’s hiatus, which have since retroactively been recognized as PWBA titles.
Johnson’s impact extends beyond her success on the PWBA Tour. In 2005, she etched her name in history by becoming the first woman to defeat a man in a televised Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour event. This groundbreaking moment marked a significant milestone for women in the sport. Twelve years later, Johnson continued to break barriers when she became the second female bowler ever to win a national PBA Tour title, a feat accomplished by defeating a male opponent in a televised championship bowling match. Her victory cemented her place in the annals of bowling history.
Recognizing her incredible contributions to the sport, Johnson was elected to the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame in December 2014. She was formally inducted into the Hall of Fame on April 29, 2015, solidifying her status as one of the greatest bowlers of all time.
Throughout her career, Johnson has been a brand ambassador for several prominent companies in the bowling industry, including Storm, Turbo Grips, High 5 gear, and Master bowling products. Her involvement with these brands further exemplifies her influence and standing within the bowling community.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Johnson’s personal life is equally inspiring. In 2018, she married her girlfriend, Kasia Kaufman, demonstrating her courage and dedication to living an authentic life. She currently resides in Niagara Falls, New York, after previously living in Palatine, Illinois.
Liz Johnson’s unwavering dedication to her craft, exceptional talent, and groundbreaking achievements have undoubtedly left an enduring mark on the sport of bowling. Her remarkable career not only showcases her individual brilliance but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the globe. Liz Johnson’s contributions to women’s history in bowling and her impact on society will forever be remembered and celebrated.
Awards:
– Six U.S. Women’s Open titles
– Four additional professional titles during the PWBA Tour’s hiatus
– Inducted into the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame in December 2014