THE RHYTHMIC clatter of pins and the squeak of shoes echoes across the wooden floors of the Shelbyville Bowling Alley. The buzz of conversation — and sometimes lively songs coupled with overly dramatic dancing — coming from the five McKamey siblings at Lane 15 is something not to be missed. This group of devoted retirees commands attention with their radiant blue Hawaiian-print shirts, showcasing green palm trees, flowers, and family photos. Matching shoes complete their ensemble.
With this group of bowlers, every roll becomes a reason to celebrate. Strikes unleash a flurry of flapping arms in an extremely spirited chicken dance, while spares trigger the unified call of a duck. They’ve embraced their philosophy wholeheartedly that “laughing and letting go is good therapy.” Rather than striving for professional glory, they bowl for joy, to rekindle sibling connection, and the simple act of being together. Their antics draw smiles from fellow bowlers and staff alike, proving that life doesn’t have to be so serious.
Growing up, their parents taught values that have stayed with them.
“Raising six children in the 1950s-60s was difficult at times, but we knew we were loved, and we learned respect for others, kindness, sharing, and discipline. Working together was a way of life for us. We have our parents to thank for our closeness,” said Betty Joyce Hulan.
In 2014, the McKamey siblings lost their oldest sister, JoAnn, to cancer. One month later, at age 97, they lost their father.
Dot Bates said, “Suddenly, there was this deep void in our family dynamic. But we determined to prioritize our time to be together.”
Between working full time and the hustle and bustle of life, raising children, and balancing challenging work schedules, their time together had dwindled to merely birthdays and holidays. After losing two immediate family members to COVID-19, the siblings decided they needed to savor the time they still had together. What used to be a monthly “Sibling Day” evolved into a fully fledged bowling team following each of their retirements.
The “McK70” bowling team includes four sisters and one brother: Betty Joyce Hulan, a retired financial service professional; Dot Bates was a licensed practical nurse; Martha Peoples worked as an inventory control specialist; Judy Moore was an automotive technician; and Glenn McKamey worked in maintenance and inventory control. Their honorary members include Dot’s husband, Kirby, and the McKameys’ cousin, Phyllis Guffey. When their schedules allow, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews also join in the fun.
Betty Joyce said, “Getting together for two to three hours each week allows us to reminisce about our childhood days as well as catch up. It really isn’t so much about bowling, but more about our children, grandchildren, or our fleeting aches of aging. Making time for each other reminds us that, come what may, the Bertha and William Allen McKamey siblings are one team. When it came to naming our team, that was simple: we were all McKameys, our average age was 70, and so were our bowling scores. I know, pretty sad, but this is us.”
In order for them to feel — and look like — a genuine bowling team, Dot ordered their matching bowling shirts.
Dot continued, “We are not skilled bowlers. Our scores are unpredictable, but if someone does manage a strike, we have a ritual. To the utter dismay of our younger sisters, my sister, Joyce, and I break into a very bad rendition of the chicken dance, followed by Glenn adding, ‘Quack quack.’ We’ve become more aware of how fragile life is, so we take the time to spend with one another, treasuring and supporting, realizing each day is a blessing.”
As the McKamey siblings continue to find joy in being together, they hope others will do as they have done.
Dot said, “My advice for others to keep their families connected — you must learn to forgive, plus respect and honor each other. We are all different, but from the same family. Make the time and concentrate on caring for each other.”
With every roll of the ball, the McKamey siblings create more than memories — they remind us to treasure the people who matter most, one frame at a time. In the future, they hope to change their team name to “McK90.” GN
