The sport acquired a bad image due to its association with bookies and drunks. It became associated with bars and pool halls, the sort of places known to attract illegal gambling and other questionable activity. Moralists and Prohibitionists denounced the coarseness of life of anyone who played.

Several times, in the United States and abroad, this sport was outright banned. For a time, several states made it illegal to maintain any facility or equipment. Congress contemplated a 20 percent tax on the sport.

Despite all the negative media and attitude, within one generation the sport made a complete turn around.

It cleaned up its act, actively promoted events and recruited more participants, moved to better establishments, and attracted women. The sport became attractive because the places were cleaned up, more events were held and publicized, becoming more accessible to more participants, classes were held so people could learn the game, and they were made welcome. Knowing they were welcome was very important.

Advances in technology would convert the facilities of this previous outlaw game into respected community recreation centers.

What sport am I talking about?

Bowling (Ten Pin), formerly known as Nine Pin.

Source: “The Perfect Game: The World of Bowling” By Herman Weiskopf

Other sports and activities have suffered image problems. A century ago, bowling suffered biases similar to what shooting does today. Being an issue generations ago, nobody remembers that.

Shooting can do the same thing if organizers follow a similar line.