Expert: - 8/19/2008

Question
I am a bowler that has been trying to improve my game all the time. In the past few years I have come across two wonderful people that have helped me with my equipment and my follow through. I'm always wanting to expand my knowledge in bowling. Something that I have been wanting to learn is how to drill bowling balls. The reason behind each drilling. Pitch, flare, and what to look for when a ball isn't drilled to work with your hand. My buddy Eddie Byrd at St. Charles Lanes' Pro Shop said that he sometimes teaches others... I think thats what he implied. Anyway, I can't really learn from him do to my work hours so I thought I would kinda get somewhat of a start by reading up on drilling. Is there a book or something that I can read. I know they have schools for this kind of stuff as well but again, my schedule is conflicting. I hope that you can help me. Thanks.

Answer
Michael,
I learned by doing, experimenting, ball manufacturer seminars and from the Trade Association I belong to (the International Bowling Pro Shop and Instructors Association - IBPSIA).

Participating in a Hands On Training program will get you a very intense start, become a member for $250 and the program costs $995.00. I don't know if you'd want to make that kind of commitment. Check out the web site (ibpsia.com) for more info.

Most of the ball manufacturers have web sites with a variety of levels of information. Check them out.

Go to the owner of your local bowling store, volunteer to help out around the place. If they help you understand equipment better, you make better choices as a customer.

Thanks for the questions.