Huntsville bowler Michael Cagle became the first person from Alabama to win the Eagle Award after taking first place in the Classified Division at the 2026 U.S. Bowling Congress (USBC) Open National Tournament.
Cagle defeated a field of approximately 22,000 competitors, recording a score of 1,817 in All-Events. The achievement earned him one of the most prestigious trophies in 10-pin bowling and added a milestone to his decades-long connection to the sport.
From Pin Palace to a national bowling title
Cagle first bowled at Pin Palace in Huntsville when he was just six years old. Today, he has returned to the same bowling alley as a coach for the Randolph School bowling team.
Despite his experience, Cagle said he did not expect to take first place at nationals. He approached the tournament with the same mindset he encourages among other bowlers: focus on doing their best and enjoying the experience.
His team’s late-night bowling session also helped him stay relaxed. Cagle competed at 11:30 p.m., which he said offered a quieter atmosphere than earlier sessions.
A family connection and a growing school program
Cagle credited his brother, who has bowled alongside him since the beginning, for helping him through the tournament. His brother tracked his score while encouraging him to stay focused, leaving Cagle unaware of how well he was performing until he sensed he was nearing a major result.
That same appreciation for bowling’s community has shaped Cagle’s work with young athletes. He helped launch Randolph School’s bowling program 11 years ago, giving students an opportunity to try a sport they might not otherwise consider.
The program has continued to grow, and Cagle said it means a great deal when former students return and tell him they wish they had started bowling sooner. He also shares the sport with his nephew, Cliff, who bowls at the collegiate level and is expected to join the family at nationals next year.
Eagle Award win sets up a new challenge
Cagle’s national victory brings a new challenge for next season. Because of his high score, he will move up to a higher division, where he will compete against a different field of bowlers.
Still, he said he is looking forward to the challenge. His achievement marks a significant moment for Alabama bowling while reflecting the lifelong passion and community connections that have kept him involved in the sport.
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