Expert: - 6/25/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Warren, I recently converted to a semi rolling technique which is going fairly well, but the ball just (sometimes) rolls over the edge of the thumb hole and is genrally very close to it. Is there a way you can suggest to move the roll line a bit futher away.
thanks

ANSWER: Andy,
Rolling close to the thumb is usually an indicator that your release the ball a little late. Where were you rolling the ball previously?You may squeeze a little without realizing it, or you may squeeze a lot, just never know without seeing you.

How does the ball fit? Does it just hang in your hand, no pressure needed to keep it from falling off? Length of the grip (a little short) might lead to "holding on," does your hand feel flat on the ball?

A change in the lateral pitch of your thumb could help, if the issue isn't fit. What is the lateral and reverse pitches in your thumb?

Thanks for the question. Update me and I will see if there may be a remedy for your problem.

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

QUESTION: effectively the ball falls off if I let it hang,the thumb hole is slightly too big. I tried to concentrate on my release Tuesday night but as htere was so little oil there was little proof of the roll line.Are the lateral and reverse pithes of thumb relating to the hole itself or the way I hold the ball?

ANSWER: Andy,
The pitches and the size of the thumb hole could (and seem to) require you to grip the ball.

Pitch is the angle at which the hole is drilled in the ball.

Tighten the thumb hole, check the length and angles (reverse or forward, right or left pitches). Your pitches may require you to grip the ball.

With less grip pressure, delivering the ball is dictated more by momentum and gravity. It's much easier!!! and more consistent. Good luck.

Thanks for the questions. Please let me know when you get your grip measurements.



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

QUESTION: Hi, I have tried for 6 months to adjust to a semi roll technique with out being very consistent. When it works it is beautiful,but I can full roll much easier.What kind/make of ball and drilling plan would you suggest to get the maximum from a full roll technique on oily lanes? thanks

Answer
Andy,
Changing the roll is a muscle memory adjustment. If you've chosen to abandon the idea we can move on. But, if you use some specific types of wrist devices to restrict your hand and wrist from your normal full rolling delivery, you might get the roll and reaction you seek. Don't get into the trap of using the device all the time, because they can become a crutch.

In the mean time, a full roller leverage layout with a surface adjustment often is plenty of friction and dynamics to get a strong reaction for a full roller player. You'll need to use a lower Radius of Gyration and higher Differential Radius of Gyration ball compared to the equipment you are now throwing. Let me know what you throw, and I'll be glad to suggest an upgrade.

Thanks for the follow up. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.