Expert: Chip Aki - 3/14/2006

Question
-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Where can I find out information on how to properly throw a figure eight ball?  I was told the Earl Anthony came up with the figure eight ball is that true?
Answer -
I am not sure who started the figure 8 type of hand movement.  It was not Earl Anthony though.  He had some hand movement, but not much.  I cannot think of any high caliber player that used that technique, at least not in recent history.
It increases the amount of hand movement during the swing and therefore presents a lot of possible errors.
Why are you wanting to try this?

Thanks,
Chip

I am not wanting to try this my ten year old brother is.  He is really wanting to curve the ball instead of throwing straight.  He was wanting to do the figure eight, but what way could he curve it and have controll of the ball.  He bowls on a legue and has a coach but is looking for some pointers? Can you help?
Thanks so much
heather

Answer
If he has a coach, I would try to work with him.  If he wants to see proper technique, have him watch the PBA when it is on tv.  There are not any pros that figure eight the ball.  Also look for any books or videos by Fred Borden or John Jowdy.

Good luck,
Chip

I really cant offer much more without being there.  Sorry.

If he learns proper body positioning and timing, the hook will come naturally.