Excelsior Springs, Mo. – On July 24, 2025, Tiger Bowl became the site of a special moment in military history for Excelsior Springs, hosting its first-ever enlistment ceremony. Staff Sergeant Heather Eaddy, a member of the U.S. Army Reserve and a regular bowler in the community, was formally enlisted in the Army Reserve during a ceremony held right inside the bowling alley.
The event was made even more meaningful by taking place just before the Thursday afternoon Bowling Buddies Senior League, an enthusiastic group made up of local seniors and military veterans. The unique ceremony drew smiles, applause, and heartfelt support from league members and fellow veterans in attendance.
In a first for Tiger Bowl, SSG Heather Eaddy takes the oath of enlistment into the U.S. Army Reserve before a crowd of veterans and senior bowlers, then shakes the hand of her enlisting officer.
SSG Eaddy, who has worked and bowled at Tiger Bowl for the past year and a half, shares a close bond with owners Jerry and Teresa Ferrell. This year, the Ferrells helped her prepare for trials to rejoin the prestigious All-Army Bowling Team. Jerry coached her through sport challenge patterns, providing technical guidance and mentorship. While Eaddy competed at trials and later at the tournament in Fort Story, Virginia, the Ferrells remained her biggest cheerleaders from back home, watching her matches via Facebook Live and offering words of encouragement.
Eaddy has been bowling and working at Tiger Bowl for a year and a half and has developed a close relationship with the owners. Over the past two years, she has tried out for the All-Army Bowling Team, competing in 24 qualifying games during trials and earning selection to the team. Following trials, she bowled another 24 games during the remainder of the competition while representing the U.S. Army.
In recognition of their continued support, Jerry and Teresa were honored with an official All-Army Sports jersey, a small token of appreciation for their big-hearted patriotism.
Moments like these remind us that patriotism doesn’t always unfold on grand stages; it often happens in the heart of our hometowns, between bowling frames, surrounded by neighbors. Tiger Bowl, with its warm hospitality and loyal league members, became the perfect setting for honoring service and celebrating commitment.
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