Craig Zirbel’s all-around athleticism and competitive nature translated well to a successful bowling career. He earned ten letters at Waunakee High School and was six time All-Conference. He played baseball for the University of Wisconsin from 1977-1981 where he was team MVP his senior year, batting .408 and earning All Big Ten honors. His 31 game hitting streak remains the longest in Badger history. In 1981 Zirbel earned a Special Achievement award from the Madison Sports Hall of Fame Club.
On the lanes, Zirbel won three MBA Championship Tournament titles, most notably leading the Whitey’s #2 team with an 804 series in 1985. He won a doubles title two years prior and another team title in 1991. Through the 1990’s he threw eight perfect games and had another supernational – an 813 – also in tournament play.
Following a hiatus from bowling to focus on raising his family, Zirbel returned to the lanes in 2005 and has averaged over 220 for the past 10 years, added four more perfect games and high championship tournament finishes to his resume.
Born: December 27, 1957
Inducted: August 18, 2016