Don Lindsay Steps Down as NTS Open Head Coach Due to Health Reasons

Tenpin Bowling Australia wishes to announce that Don Lindsay has officially stepped down from his position as NTS Open Head Coach due to health reasons. Don, who has been in the role since 2023, was selected for the position following his invaluable contribution as an assistant coach at the IBF World Cup on the Sunshine Coast.

A proud Queenslander, Don began his coaching career in the early 2000s and has been a dedicated figure in the sport ever since. He has coached a variety of state teams across different age groups, from juniors to adults, and was awarded Queensland Coach of the Year on two occasions. In 2020, Don was appointed assistant coach for the NTS Open and later served as assistant coach during the 2022 World Cup on the Sunshine Coast.

Don has also worked as a private and state team coach to many of our current NTS bowlers, including Jarrod Langford, Blayne Fletcher, Jesse Ellis, Chloe Jones, and Emily Bottomley. His commitment to developing not only athletes but also well-rounded individuals has been a hallmark of his coaching philosophy.

Reflecting on his time with Team Australia, Don shared: “I need to concentrate on my health. I’ve reached my lifetime goal as the head of coaching Team Australia in this amazing sport, while hopefully helping others grow as people, not just athletes. I always say I coach people—bowling is just what we happen to do.” When asked to pick a standout moment, Don added: “Nothing specific stands out—the whole adventure was a buzz.”

We thank Don for his incredible service and leadership, and we wish him all the best as he focuses on his health. His impact on the sport and the athletes he’s coached will be long-lasting.

Assistant Coach Colin Linton will step in as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2024 season, with a decision on the permanent head coach role to be made by the end of the year.