Expert: Chip Aki - 1/9/2007

Question
Chip,
I'm 50, been a full roller for 35 years and got back into league bowling about a year ago.  176 avg., high game 235,  with 18-19 mph ball speed, but I feel limited as a full roller.  I'm trying to learn a 3/4 release but am having trouble.  I picked up a Track solution on Ebay and had my pro drill it label leverage, for practice.  I'm flaring over the thumb hole and  have a very high track.  
Could you explain to me exactly what I'm doing in my release to get the full roll, and if there's anything simple I can use as a "mind-game" or to get myself to get the thumb out first, etc. etc.  I've tried the underhand football trick, with no avail.  Thanks for your help.

Matt

Answer
If you still track over the thumb hole, you are turning your hand before you release the ball.  A full roller requires the hand to rotate clockwise during the release.  A 3/4 roller requires a counter clockwise rotation during the release.  YOu need to try and keep your thumb close to one oclock in your backswing and rotate  your thumb towards eleven oclock as the ball passes your ankle.  Do not try to lift the ball or you will want to rotate back in a counter clockwise fashion.  Just roll the ball off of your hand.

Good luck,
Chip