O'Keefe, also the director of bowling for McKendree University, will oversee the selection of athletes and training camps for both male and female teams.

He will also serve as coach for both squads at international competitions.

At the same time, he hopes to continue his commitments with the university team.

“Having worked with the Team USA and Junior Team programmes, I understand what a tremendous opportunity and responsibility it is to oversee teams that represent the United States,” the 42-year-old said. 

“It’s hard to express what a great feeling it is to be able work with Junior Team USA while continuing my work at McKendree.”

O'Keefe's tenure will begin with the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Team USA Trials and United States Amateur Bowling Championships this week in Henderson, Nevada.

Spots on several US junior teams will be determined.

“Bryan O’Keefe is recognised as one of the top coaches in the country, and we’re excited to have him back with the Junior Team USA programme," added USBC executive director Chad Murphy.

“He’s a great teacher and understands how to get the best performances out of talented athletes.”

O’Keefe first became a Team USA assistant coach in 2010.

US athletes have since earned more than 100 medals at junior international level.