HEIDI WOODS AND BENNIE GEMELLO INDUCTED INTO TUCSON METRO USBC HALL OF FAME
By Mark R. Kerr, Tucson Metro USBC President
TUCSON, Ariz. – The Tucson Metro USBC proudly welcomed two outstanding bowlers into its Hall of Fame on March 1, 2025. Heidi Woods and Bennie Gemello were honored for their Superior Performance during a ceremony held after the final team squad of the 81st Annual Tucson Metro USBC City Open Championships and 75th Annual Women’s Championships at Lucky Strike Bowl.
Bennie Gemello’s bowling journey began at age 11, inspired by her father, Benedicto, and mother, Virginia. Her competitive drive sparked when her brother brought home a bowling trophy, motivating her to pursue league bowling with her parents, where her skills quickly developed.
She went on to compete in City tournaments, California State events, and the Women’s International Bowling Congress Tournament alongside her mom. Bennie also participated in multiple California State Queens tournaments, with one highlight being a runner-up finish to Hall of Famer Tish Johnson.
Her career reached new heights on the Western Women’s Professional Tour (WWPT), where she bowled alongside greats like Donna “Mighty Mite” Adamek, Tish Johnson, and Mary Ann Dugan. Bennie’s top game on the WWPT was a 290.
After moving to Tucson in 1993, Hall of Famer Linda Wallace introduced Bennie to the Old Pueblo’s bowling scene. She joined Wallace’s team with Eric Hew and Carol Waterick, recording a Tucson league-high score of 299. Over the years, Bennie has captured 10 Tucson City titles, including:
Bennie also competed in the Golden Ladies Classic and bowled in 24 USBC Nationals. Her contributions extend beyond competition, as she has coached youth bowlers at Tucson Bowl — an experience she calls one of her most rewarding.
Known as Tucson’s own “Mighty Mite of the Lanes,” Bennie Gemello’s dedication, skill, and love for the game have left an enduring mark.
Heidi Woods began bowling at age 6, promising herself she’d earn her first pair of bowling shoes after rolling a 200 game — which she accomplished by age 8.
Her early career highlights include winning the 1994 Washington State Queens Tournament and a Ladies Professional Bowlers Tour (LPBT) Regional in Everett, Washington. Wanting to balance education with competition, Heidi contacted Wichita State University’s bowling program and joined the prestigious Shockers from 1995 to 1999.
At Wichita State, Heidi earned:
After college, Heidi moved to Tucson, where she became a dominant force in local competition, earning 26 Tucson City titles, including:
Heidi has rolled seven 300 games and one 800 series. In 2008, she earned the AMAFAC High Average Merit Award for the highest average among adult women (227).
She credits her success to the unwavering support of her parents and values the friendships she has built on the lanes, calling them “the greatest thing bowling has given me.”
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