By Hove Team 
EJ Tackett stands out as one of the most dominant figures in professional bowling, a sport where precision and mental toughness define champions. Known for his unique one-handed cranker style that rivals two-handers in power, Tackett has racked up titles, awards, and a loyal fan base. His EJ Tackett biography reveals a journey from a small-town Indiana kid with a family bowling legacy to a four-time PBA Player of the Year. Readers might wonder about EJ Tackett net worth, especially given his string of major wins and endorsements, but his story goes beyond finances: it highlights resilience, family bonds, and a passion that turned a childhood hobby into a powerhouse career. Whether you’re a bowling enthusiast or just curious about top athletes in niche sports, Tackett’s rise shows why dedication pays off in unexpected ways.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward Dean Tackett Jr. |
| Also Known As / Nicknames | EJ Tackett, Squirrel |
| Date of Birth / Age | August 7, 1992 (33 years old as of 2026) |
| Birthplace / Hometown | Huntington, Indiana / Bluffton, Indiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Primary Occupation | Professional Ten-Pin Bowler |
| Other Roles | Bowling center owner (EZ Bowl), coach, clinician |
| Genres / Fields | Sports (professional bowling, PBA Tour) |
| Active Years | 2012–present |
| Breakthrough Year | 2016 (first major title and PBA Player of the Year) |
| Notable Works | PBA World Championship (2016, 2023, 2024, 2025), U.S. Open (2023, 2025), PBA Tournament of Champions (2017) |
| Awards & Honors | 4x PBA Player of the Year (2016, 2023, 2024, 2025), 4x George Young High Average Award (2022–2025), PBA Triple Crown winner, 2012–13 PBA Rookie of the Year |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Children | One son (Tripp) |
| Education & Training | Huntington North High School; briefly attended Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) on a golf scholarship; trained under father Ed Tackett since childhood |
| Official Social Media Handles | Instagram: @ejt300; Facebook: EJ Tackett; X (Twitter): @ejt300 |
| Estimated Net Worth | $4–6 million (approximate, based on career earnings, sponsorships, and business ventures; not officially verified) |
EJ Tackett grew up immersed in bowling, thanks to a family deeply rooted in the sport. His grandfather, Alex Smart, earned a spot in the Knights of Columbus International Bowling Hall of Fame, setting a high bar for the family. His father, Ed Tackett, competed as a professional bowler and owned Oak Lanes in Huntington, Indiana, where young EJ spent countless hours. Starting as early as age two, Tackett rolled his first balls down the lane, often tagging along with his dad. This environment fostered a natural talent, but it also came with a socio-economic context of small-town life in the Midwest, where bowling alleys served as community hubs.
Key moments shaped Tackett’s ambitions, like watching his father compete and realizing the thrill of strikes. His brother, Zac Tackett, who lives with epilepsy and also bowls professionally, added to the family dynamic, inspiring EJ to value perseverance. These early influences turned bowling from a pastime into a calling, blending family tradition with personal drive.
Tackett attended Huntington North High School, where he excelled in both bowling and golf. He won the Indiana state high school individual bowling championship in 2009 as a sophomore, led his team to a state title, and earned all-state honors in golf. Balancing academics with sports, he also claimed the Pepsi Indiana Junior Tour player of the year award and competed in national junior golf events.
After high school, Tackett briefly enrolled at Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) on a golf scholarship. However, after three semesters, he left to pursue professional bowling full-time, a decision supported by his family. His training came primarily from his father, Ed, who served as his lifelong coach. Drills focused on spare shooting and precision, such as hitting targets repeatedly without missing. Early mentors included pros like Norm Duke, whose advice later proved pivotal. Tackett’s first steps in the industry included junior tournaments, where he joined Junior Team USA in 2011 and 2013, earning medals and building confidence for the pro circuit.
Tackett’s career trajectory reads like a highlight reel, marked by steady climbs and explosive peaks.
Joining the PBA in 2012, Tackett earned Rookie of the Year honors in the 2012–13 season after cashing in 10 of 16 events. His first PBA Tour title came in 2015 at the Lubbock Sports Open, a win that signaled his arrival among the elite.
The 2016 season catapulted him to stardom: four titles, including his first major at the PBA World Championship, and the PBA Player of the Year award. He followed with five titles in 2017, including the FireLake PBA Tournament of Champions. Tackett adapted his one-handed style, achieving high RPMs that earned him the “unicorn” nickname.
In 2023, Tackett completed the PBA Triple Crown with a U.S. Open win in his home state, avenging a prior loss. He then achieved a rare three-peat in the PBA World Championship (2023–2025), becoming one of only four players to do so in a major. His 2025 season included four titles, leading the tour in earnings ($438,540) and points.
- Timeline of Key Wins:
- 2015: First PBA title (Lubbock Sports Open)
- 2016: PBA World Championship
- 2017: PBA Tournament of Champions
- 2023: U.S. Open and PBA World Championship
- 2024: PBA World Championship
- 2025: U.S. Open and PBA World Championship
Tackett has partnered with brands like MOTIV Bowling (pro staff since early career), Dexter shoes, JoPo Grips, and Genesis kinesiology tape. He co-owns EZ Bowl with his wife, hosting PBA events. Doubles wins include partnerships with Marshall Kent and mixed doubles with pros like Liz Johnson.
With 27 PBA Tour titles (10th all-time) and seven majors, Tackett holds records like most consecutive championship rounds (six in 2025). Critics praise his versatility across oil patterns, and he’s ranked #2 on the PBA’s “Best 25 Players of the Last 25 Seasons” list.
Tackett’s path included setbacks, like runner-up finishes in majors (2014 USBC Masters, 2022 U.S. Open) that stung but fueled growth. He reflected on these as learning opportunities, adjusting mentally and technically. A pivotal moment came in 2023 when a single shot shifted his mindset, leading to three straight Player of the Year awards. Controversies have been minimal, though he navigated the pressure of high expectations neutrally, focusing on performance.
Life lessons emphasize hard work and family support. Tackett once said, “Everything happens for a reason, my dad always said that… Just go bowl and let your bowling speak for itself.” These challenges refined his public image as a resilient, approachable star.
Beyond the lanes, Tackett leads a grounded life. Married to Natalie Tackett (née Goodman) since 2019, a former high school state champion bowler, they have a son named Tripp. The couple owns EZ Bowl in Bluffton, Indiana, blending family and business. Natalie, a two-time Southwestern Illinois Bowler of the Year, supports his career while competing occasionally herself.
Hobbies include golf (a high school standout), fishing, hunting, and hands-on projects like working on his truck. Tackett supports causes like epilepsy awareness, raising funds through a signature bowling ball in 2020. His influence extends to coaching clinics, inspiring young bowlers with his story.
EJ Tackett net worth sits at an estimated $4–6 million as of 2026, though exact figures remain unverified and approximations draw from public sources. This stems from PBA career earnings exceeding $2.4 million, with peaks like $458,450 in 2023 and $438,540 in 2025.
Major income streams include:
- Tournament Winnings: Over 27 titles, including seven majors with six-figure prizes (e.g., $100,000 for 2023 U.S. Open).
- Endorsements and Sponsorships: Deals with MOTIV, Dexter, JoPo Grips, and Genesis add substantial revenue.
- Business Ventures: Co-ownership of EZ Bowl generates income through operations and events.
- Other Sources: Coaching, clinics, royalties from signature products, and investments.
Estimations use methods from sites like Celebrity Net Worth, factoring in taxes, expenses, and assets. While bowling pros don’t match mainstream athletes’ pay, Tackett’s dominance boosts his value.
Did you know? Tackett nearly pursued golf professionally, competing in junior nationals before choosing bowling. He’s the only player to top-seed four majors in one season (2023) and holds the record for longest roll-off in PBA history.
- Tackett on his father’s influence: “That embrace with my father after the World Championship was one of the greatest moments of my life.”
- On perseverance: “Every time that I bowled on a telecast I learned something new about myself… and I was finally able to put everything together.”
- Fun fact: He started bowling before he could walk steadily, and his nickname “Squirrel” nods to his energetic style.
These tidbits add layers to Tackett’s personality, showing a blend of humility and fierce competition.
What makes EJ Tackett famous?
EJ Tackett gained fame through his exceptional PBA Tour success, including 27 titles, seven majors, and four Player of the Year awards, making him a modern bowling icon.
How did EJ Tackett get his start?
He began bowling at age two in his family’s alley, honed skills in high school and junior events, then turned pro in 2012 after leaving college.
What are EJ Tackett’s biggest achievements?
His highlights include the PBA Triple Crown, a three-peat in the World Championship, and records like six consecutive finals appearances.
Is EJ Tackett married?
Yes, to Natalie Tackett since 2019; they have a son, Tripp, and co-own EZ Bowl.
What is EJ Tackett’s net worth?
Estimated at $4–6 million, primarily from PBA earnings over $2.4 million, sponsorships, and business.
Where is EJ Tackett now?
Living in Bluffton, Indiana, he continues competing on the PBA Tour, running EZ Bowl, and enjoying family life.
How many PBA titles has EJ Tackett won?
27, including seven majors.
What is EJ Tackett’s bowling style?
Right-handed cranker, one-handed with high RPMs, often called a “unicorn” for its uniqueness.
You May Also Like: Wayne Lineker Net Worth 2025: Inside the Ibiza Entrepreneur’s Empire and Success Story