Expert: joe foti - 4/12/2004

Question
ive seen people bowl curve balls down the lane. it seems more efficient than throwing it straight down. i was wondering how do you hook the ball? ive watched people closely, but i still cant get it... could you explain? thx

Answer
John,
    Hooking the ball creates a stronger angle of entry into the pocket. Thus creating better pin action. The most effective way is to point your index finger at your target, this will put your thumb at about 2 o'clock (picture a clock face). Your fingers will be about 7 o'clock under the ball. LOCK everything in place, when you release the ball, your thumb will release first, let the natural motion of your hand through the swing rotate the ball as your fingers lift. Don't try turning your wrist. If you have a hard time with this, get a football and throw some underhand spirals. It's the same hand motion.
If you want, try rotating you thumb to 10 o'clock, then try rotating out until you get it. Try it see what happens. It make take a while to get used to, but it should pay off in the long run. Thanks Joe