Expert: Chip Aki - 11/10/2008

Question
My question 2 actually.
How short is to short and how long is to long span wise. I've heard that the pro's tend to go real short with there spans. Why?
Can you drill a ball with different pitches to make the ball roll end-over-end or make it spin?   Thank you.

Answer
I am not sure if there is a simple answer to the span question.  I have seen bowlers be successful with spans that look way too long and there are bowlers that are successful with spans that look way too short.  Each bowler is unique and I would suggest to use what is most comfortable for you and does not cause any pain or discoloration on your fingers or thumb.
On a personal note, I find that if I go too short I lose the ball and if I go too long, I feel that I get locked up in the ball.
You can change your ball roll some with pitch changes.  In order to do that, you have to change the pitch in all three grip holes.  If you are right handed and want to stay behind the ball longer and raise your track, add right pitch to each hole.  Add the same amount in each hole as well.  If you want to spin the ball or lower your track, add left to each hole.

Good luck,
Chip