Expert: - 11/3/2008

Question
QUESTION: Dr. Fiedl...just as in golf,an outside in armswing can do nothing but cause you to have to make an unecessary extra shot. I am a tweener with slower ball speed(12-15mph) who has trouble keeping my arm straight back. It always goes out to the side even if i hold it low using upswing type of ball presentation.  I am trying to come closer to my ankle but end up pulling the ball.  I broke my clavicle 25 yrs ago & also used to be a no thumb cranker.  My thumb is double jointed & very flexible. Is it just more practice with a coach or could it be my thumbhole needs to be drilled in that "y out" drilling?  It seems to get better with a longer span. Please help. Thank you.



ANSWER: Angelo,
Without seeing you throw, I can't imagine what is going on.

Practice with a coach is usually a good idea (ideally, a certified Coach, from IBPSIA, USBC, Ritger, etc.).

You may have a fit issue if your ball is NOT letting go of you. Any gripping, complicates the swing, tightens muscles (making a free and STRAIGHT swing impossible) and demands you let go. Hard to duplicate.

I don't know the "y out" drilling you mention. Please elaborate. I am always looking for ideas from other operators. What works on Mars should work on Venus!!! Thanks for the questions.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Forgive me Dr.Friedl, the correct terminology is the "Max Y" drilling. It was featured in BTM Vol. 6 #7 July 1999 article by Bob Summerville. I have yet to find a pro shop operator who is faithful and knowledgeable enough to drill this pattern for me for I have always had to squeeze the ball and everyone keeps insisting on giving me a short span. Everyone says my thumb is so unusual that they give me pitches that turn my thumb in and under towards my pinky. Is this too much forward negative pitch?

Answer
Angelo,
I've worked with a lot of players with challenges, from arthritis to missing digits and other difficulties. Your situation is intriguing. I'd like to know more about what's going on.

Can you forward a copy of your fit sheet and a photo of your hand in the ball (and from front, back, sides, as it hangs in your hand)? Any more info about your game (rev rate, Positive Axis Point, Axis Tilt, Axis Rotation,). Ball speed (a three mile an hour variance is huge)  

Where are you from? Ever through Chicago?

Sorry but I am not familiar with Mr. Summerville's Max Y drilling. Can you e-mail me the article? or copy and mail or fax it (address and number at: http://www.revbowl.com/Contactus.html)?

Thanks for the questions and compliment (I am not a Dr.).