2025 Hall of Fame Inductee: Mark French
A Legacy Built on Power, Humility, and Giving Back
Mark French
Some bowlers are remembered for their scores. Others for how they make the people around them better. Mark French is firmly in both camps—and that rare combination is exactly why his induction into the VCUSBC Hall of Fame feels not only earned, but inevitable.
Mark’s bowling résumé speaks volumes. His greatest competitive achievement—being named a 2004 Junior Team USA Member—placed him among the very best young bowlers in the country. Around the same time, he held the record for most 800 series by a junior bowler for numerous years, a testament to both his consistency and his extraordinary talent. Add to that dozens of 300 games and 800 series across leagues and tournaments, and you begin to understand the scale of his impact.
What truly set Mark apart, though, was how he achieved those results. He has long been known for one of the most powerful strike balls and rev rates in the region. When locked in and competing, Mark was simply electric to watch—capable of taking over a tournament in a matter of frames. Competitors respected him. Spectators leaned in when he stepped on the approach.
Yet despite the power and the accolades, Mark has always carried himself with uncommon humility. Widely regarded as one of the nicest competitors you’ll ever meet, his bowling knowledge runs deep, and he’s always willing to share. Whether it’s breaking down lane play, ball motion, or mental approach, Mark gives freely of his time and insight, asking nothing in return. That generosity has helped shape countless bowlers throughout Ventura County.
Mark French and fellow 2026 VCUSBC Masters finalist, Kevin Magnuson
Mark’s journey began right here as a Ventura County junior bowler, where he racked up wins across JATs, JSTs, JBTs, and JCTs, building a reputation that would follow him well beyond youth competition. Today, his name is recognized across the entire county—not just for what he accomplished on the lanes, but for the example he set along the way.
As life has evolved, so has Mark. His competitive pace may have slowed as he embraced his most important roles yet: being an incredible father to his son, Walker, and a devoted husband to his wife, Cassie. That same dedication and integrity he brought to bowling now define him off the lanes as well.
Inducting Mark French into the VCUSBC Hall of Fame honors more than a record book. It celebrates a career built on excellence, sportsmanship, and service to the bowling community. His legacy is powerful, lasting, and deeply rooted in Ventura County—and it will continue to inspire future generations of bowlers for years to come.
Nominated by: Mason Sherman
