Expert: Chip Aki - 12/13/2006

Question
Hello, my name is Tony and I am 18 years old.  I have been on a bowling leauge for 5 years.  My average at first was 88, but I got it up to the mid 120 range.  It's been in the mid 120 range for 3 years and I want to improve.  It's mostly ball speed.  

Everytime I go up there, my ball speed is so slow and hooks way too soon, hitting the 2 and 4 pin.  I'm a right handed bowler and want to get it into that right pocket(1 and 3 pins I think).  I hardly have a backswing at all.  Every good bowler with an average of around 150-200 in my leauge can easily do that(lift arm above shoulder).  I tried many times but I would just hurt myself doing it and my ball would go directly in the gutter.  It's physically hard on me.  Is there any possible advice on how I get my ball to hook better?  It's a storm big hit ball by the way.

Answer
Without seeing you in person, it is really hard to determine the reason for your problem.  It could be a timing problem that is causing you to not be able to create an armswing.  I would really concentrate on matching up your swing with your feet.  If at all possible, you woudl need to work with a coach or bowler there.
If you take 4 steps, make sure you start the ball into your swing just before you start your approach with your right foot.  Once you start, just walk and let the ball swing.  If your foot speed is not too fast, the ball will swing higher and create more ball speed for you.

Good luck,
Chip