On September 22nd, 2026, the Daviess County CEO Cohort visited Champion Lanes to learn how a local entertainment business combines tradition, innovation, and customer service to create a memorable experience for its guests. The students met with co-owner Kathy Decker, who shared the story behind the business and offered a firsthand look at what it takes to operate a successful entertainment facility.
Champion Lanes is owned by four business partners: Kathy Decker, Jeff Owens, Chris Hoover, and Jerry Torres. Each brings different skills and experience to the operation, demonstrating how teamwork and shared responsibilities can contribute to a business's success. The facility offers more than traditional bowling, incorporating axe throwing and other entertainment opportunities while preserving a connection to bowling's history with vintage pinsetters dating back to the 1960s.
During the tour, Kathy explained the equipment and mechanical systems that keep the bowling lanes operating properly. Students gained a better understanding of the work that takes place behind the scenes and the importance of maintaining equipment to ensure customers have a positive experience.
Kathy also shared several important lessons about running a business. She emphasized the value of supporting the local community and giving back to the people who support the business. She encouraged students to remain flexible, research their markets before making major decisions, and maintain open communication with employees, partners, and customers. She also stressed that customer feedback is important because listening to customers can help a business identify areas for improvement and better meet their needs.
The discussion gave students a realistic look at some of the challenges entrepreneurs encounter. Kathy spoke about balancing family life with business responsibilities and the difficulties of finding and retaining dependable employees. These experiences reminded students that owning a business requires dedication, adaptability, and the ability to work through unexpected challenges.
The visit concluded with a fun bowling game, giving the cohort an opportunity to enjoy the facility they had just learned about. The Daviess County CEO Cohort extends its sincere appreciation to Kathy for welcoming the students, sharing her business knowledge, and providing an informative tour of Champion Lanes. Her insights offered valuable lessons about partnership, community involvement, customer satisfaction, and the everyday decisions that help keep a business moving forward.