Walter’s journey in bowling began in the 1960s while working at companies like Coca-Cola and Shell Canada. By 1969 he joined the Master Bowlers Association (MBA) and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming MBA President in 1972. He secured major sponsorships for the sport and, after losing re-election in 1974, began writing a popular Toronto Star bowling column that ran until 1981.

Transitioning full-time into bowling, Walter helped produce instructional materials and served in leadership roles with the Ontario Bowling Congress and Professional Bowling Ltd. In 1978, he became President of the Master Bowlers Association of Canada—a position he held for an astounding 39 years.

Walter was instrumental in creating the Bowl for Millions fundraiser with Big Brothers, securing Hiram Walker as a national sponsor, and launching the Master Bowlers/Special Olympics Doubles Championship. He also co-founded Ontario’s youth bowling schools, helping generations of young athletes.

Recognized as both a builder and player, Walter earned numerous honors, including multiple Hall of Fame inductions and awards for media and volunteerism. In 2024, he published A Trip Down Memory Lane, a 480-page history of five-pin bowling, cementing his legacy as the sport’s historian.

Today, Walter continues to promote bowling—visiting seniors’ homes and sharing his passion wherever he can. His proudest achievements remain his Toronto Star column, bringing Hiram Walker sponsorship to the sport, and his enduring partnership with Special Olympics.

Congratulations to 2025 Hall of Fame inductee, Walter Heeney—true builder, leader, and ambassador of Canadian five-pin bowling.