Rolling Into Business
How a Lifelong Bowler Became the Owner of Stillwater Bowl
Many people dream of turning their passion into a thriving business—but few take the leap to make it happen. Todd Scheiderhan is one of those few.
After spending 30 years in corporate marketing for law firms, the Eagan, Minnesota, native was ready for a change. He wanted more freedom, more control over his work, and a career that aligned with his lifelong love of bowling. When the opportunity to purchase Stillwater Bowl arose, he knew it was the time to take a shot.
And for Scheiderhan, it wasn’t just about owning a business—it was about coming full circle. His first job as a teenager was at this bowling alley, and as an adult, he spent countless hours at lanes fine-tuning his skills. Now, he’s not just playing the game, he’s running it.
A Perfect Match: Purchasing Stillwater Bowl
Scheiderhan first learned about the opportunity through Sunbelt Business Brokers. The idea of owning a bowling alley felt right, but he needed to navigate the process of purchasing a business. With determination and the right financial support from 21st Century Bank, he secured Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to make Stillwater Bowl his own.
While transitioning from corporate life to business ownership came with a learning curve, Schneiderhan’s background in marketing, management, and goal-setting helped him step into the role with confidence. From creating a business plan to structuring daily operations, he embraced the challenge head-on.
Bringing New Energy to Stillwater Bowl
Since taking over, Schneiderhan has poured his passion into the business, working long days to ensure everything runs smoothly. He’s not just behind the scenes—he’s in the lanes, oiling surfaces, maintaining the facility, serving customers, and even cooking in the grill. “I don’t mind long days because I love being here,” he says. “It doesn’t always feel like work.”
Stillwater Bowl currently employs four full-time and 20 part-time employees, including Schneiderhan’s sister-in-law. His wife, Christina, is a co-owner and plays an active role in supporting the business. Together, they’ve already made strides in expanding what Stillwater Bowl offers.
More Than Bowling: Creating a Community Hub
Under Schneiderhan’s leadership, Stillwater Bowl is evolving into more than just a place to bowl—it’s becoming a destination. He has introduced volleyball leagues, live music, wedding receptions, and community events. Plans are in motion to upgrade the on-site golf simulators, ensuring the venue remains a modern and exciting place for locals to gather.
For Schneiderhan, it’s about striking the perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. “This needs to stay a place that’s truly a fun place to bowl versus a place that is overpriced and feels like a carnival,” he says. “It needs to be modernized, something that a family can take it over when we’re ready to retire.”
The Passion Behind the Business
At the heart of Stillwater Bowl is a simple truth: it’s run by a bowler, for bowlers. Schneiderhan’s commitment to the sport and his business is evident in every detail, from the cleanliness of the lanes to the welcoming atmosphere inside.
“There are a lot of really good things about owning this business,” he reflects. “I like being here. And it doesn’t always feel like work because I have a passion for the bowling industry. If I’m oiling the lanes and making sure things are clean, it doesn’t feel tedious—because I’m a bowler too, and I want the alley to be the best it can be for all of us.”
For Schneiderhan, owning Stillwater Bowl isn’t just a career move—it’s a lifelong passion turned reality. And as he looks ahead, he’s focused on making the alley a place where the next generation of bowlers can create memories, just like he did.
Visit Stillwater Bowl
Looking for a great place to bowl, grab a bite to eat, or host your next event? Stop by Stillwater Bowl, where the lanes are smooth, the food is delicious, and the community is always welcome.
Making It Happen with 21st Century Bank
For Schneiderhan, the journey to business ownership wouldn’t have been possible without the right financial support. When it came time to secure funding for the acquisition, he turned to 21st Century Bank, a trusted partner in small business lending.
As a first-time business owner, Schneiderhan had never navigated the complexities of an SBA loan before. With the guidance of Todd Klingl, Senior Vice President and Head of Lending at 21st Century Bank, Schneiderhan was able to secure both an SBA 7(a) loan for working capital and an SBA 504 loan for the facility.
Beyond the financing, Klingl and the team at 21st Century Bank provided personalized support, answering questions, reviewing financials, and ensuring Schneiderhan had the tools he needed to succeed. “I had no idea what I was getting into,” he admits. “[21st Century Bank] helped answer all my questions—even the ones I didn’t know I needed to ask.”
The result? A seamless transition into business ownership, empowering Schneiderhan to focus on what matters most—creating a welcoming and thriving bowling alley for the Stillwater community.
