Expert: - 8/19/2008

Question
Do you know a simple way to explain or better yet illestrate the axis tilt of a hooking bowling ball.  I am about to take the Bronze coaching class and just feel I am weak on this subject.  I understand the importance of the tilt on when the ball will start to hook and I think I understand the tilt, but just would like someone eleses explanation.  Thank you

Answer
Rick,
Axis tilt is the vertical angle at which the ball rotates. Ebonite International's website offers "Angle between axis of rotation and the horizontal plane – caused by the bowler at the release, represents an angle of the axis of rotation above a horizontal line through the middle of the ball."

Axis tilt is determined by the position of the thumb during the release. If the hand turns too early, the thumb exits on top of the ball.

Getting the thumb to exit at the bottom of the swing minimizes axis tilt.

Thanks for the question.