Aslan's Scores (of the non-lady kind)

[RobLV1]

20mph we're talking Osku spare shooting speed

In 2007, the average ball speed on the PBA tour was just over 19 mph. I'm sure it's over 20 by now. Palermaa's average spare shot speed is just over 28 mph!

[vdubtx]

In 2007, the average ball speed on the PBA tour was just over 19 mph. I'm sure it's over 20 by now. Palermaa's average spare shot speed is just over 28 mph!

That's if he wants to get it up that high. Watching him at the US Open he wasn't anywhere close to that fast on spare shooting.

[Aslan]

A Cincinnati? Haven't heard that term before.
Cincinnati = 8-10 I highlighted it in red because since I switched to 15lbs from 16lbs it's a pocket leave that I'm now leaving far more than I have in the past.


How did you know the pattern changed? Did they tell you it did, or, are you just assuming since the ball didn't react the way you usually want it to?
I could tell with my ball reaction and watching some of the other lower speed players....you could see that the ball was skidding well past the usual 37-39 feet. I thought maybe it was just my speed was too high, but everyone else on the lanes all around us were complaining as well. The anchor for the other team switched to a lower speed approach midway through Game 1 and I did the same thing starting in Game 2. He saw me do it and started talking to me.

Speed is primarily about where you start your approach. People think it's about how HARD you throw...but it shouldn't be. You shouldn't be "trying" to throw the ball...it should be a relaxed, casual throw. The speed comes from where you start. I tend to start with my feet somewhere near the furthest dots back on the approach. I have long legs and tend to take too big a first step...so if I try to start closer...I struggle with timing as I get to the line too soon. But when your strongest ball, even when taken down to 1000 abralon (which I reluctantly had to do), is missing right of the headpin and you're as far right as you can get without a serious risk of going in the gutter....I had no choice but to move my feet up so my toe was up against the first set of dots on the approach.

Did it work? Sort of. I was able to find the pocket. Obviously a 205 is better than a 146. But without my speed, I lose power and thus carry. I have to rely on 'help' from messengers and such. Not to mention...the occasional miss left as I get to the line too soon and tug the shot.

To Amyers' points:
1) I find that my optimal speed is about 15.5mph. BUT...that's optimal if I can play around the 5-9 board area and go out and in. I hoped to eventually improve my release to the point that my revs could support something more around 17-17.5mph...but that was a work in progress.

2) It's all about expectations. Your wife expects to throw in the 120s to 170s. If she has a few 180 games she's gonna be singing songs in the car on the way home from the center. My expectations have risen as my knowledge of the game has risen...but my natural talent is limiting my ability to translate that knowledge into results. And while a 550 series was a great night for me 1 year ago...my expectations are now 600+. So do I lower my expectations and just accept that it'll take me 15-20 years to get good enough to meet my nightly expectations? Or do I accept that I'm simply limited by age and natural ability and health and just learn to accept that? I don't know. I don't know if there is a right answer to that question.

3) And there are other things at play:

- Monday league is a joke...I now have to watch the girl I was sweet on make out the whole night with the young guy on the team...which is at best mildly annoying. They both arrive late every night....and the 4th player has only showed up like 4 weeks so far.

- The Wednesday "super team" is also a joke. Me and the anchor are doing our best...but our #3 bowler is up and down...mostly down. And the two leadoff bowlers are absolutely horrible...so there's no way we're the "super team" we thought we were.

- Finances: My daughter is really into horseback riding and I've been spending about $180-$280/month on that. Now the trainer is talking about her going to national competitions and leasing a horse....I may have to seriously cut back on my expenses to try and make that happen. That's gonna mean no more lessons...no more extras (sidepots, 50/50, brackets, tournaments, etc...)....and possibly no more bowling.

- Health: My knee has always been my potential limiting factor. I've had bad knees since before little league baseball....and I've continued to do just about every possible sport that is really hard on the knees (tennis, football, ice hockey, martial arts, running, bowling, etc..). But recently I've found another possible concern...skin cancer. Not sure if I have it or not....and even if I do...caught early, prognosis is good. But...cancer is cancer.

So, I might take all of next season off for the reasons above. And there's a strong possibility I'll be moving from California to Iowa next year so I don't want to be in 2 leagues and have to drop out midway though. Whether that means I'm done with bowling for good or just for a season...we'll see. It's been a fun two years and I learned a lot...still am learning. I recently decided to finally start and finish "Fundamentals of Bowling" by Chuck Pezzano (RIP, 2015). And I met some great and interesting people I otherwise would never have met. But I believe you can deceive anyone...but you can't deceive yourself. And it doesn't matter what other people think of my game and skill and improvement...if I 'know' that I've hit a wall I just don't have the natural talent to break through...I have to be honest with myself.

[NYMIKE]

I been following your log, it seems like you made nice forward progress, but struggling in a month of November, even Dow Jones rebounds, so will your game. I believe you minimizing your accomplishment of averaging 200 on a "cupcake" lanes. I'm sure not everyone is averaging 200 over there, I'm certain that if I go bowl on those lanes I be lucky to get a 10 point score spike. I told you when you first mention about your teammates hooking up, probably best for you not to bowl with them, bowling is a mental game, and that stuff is hurting you. I'm in the same boat as you, I feel like I'm busting my *** trying to get better, and progress is slow, my ability is limited, but one by one I pass some league bowlers, and it's enjoyable to me.

[Tony]

Cincinnati = 8-10 I highlighted it in red because since I switched to 15lbs from 16lbs it's a pocket leave that I'm now leaving far more than I have in the past.




- Health: My knee has always been my potential limiting factor. I've had bad knees since before little league baseball....and I've continued to do just about every possible sport that is really hard on the knees (tennis, football, ice hockey, martial arts, running, bowling, etc..). But recently I've found another possible concern...skin cancer. Not sure if I have it or not....and even if I do...caught early, prognosi s is good. But...cancer is cancer.



Don't let skin cancer be your excuse, the most common forms of skin cancer are unpleasant and bothersome but rarely a death sentence, Melanoma is the worst form and accounts for the greatest number / percentage of deaths and when caught early the 10 year survival rate is well over 90%. One pretty sure indication of skin cancer is a sore that won't heal, go see a dermatologist and they can pinpoint the questionable area's.
I can also tell you from personal experience that all cancer is not created equal. Pancreatic cancer is a death sentence, many skin cancer cases are a walk in the park by comparison.

[Amyers]

All though skin cancer is no walk in the park it's rarley more than a few weeks for whatever they had to remove to heal. Your in something of a slump at the moment, have convinced yourself that one of your houses scores aren't real, sounds like facing some financial challenges, and maybe not enjoying your teams as much as is possible. I've been in something of a slump here latley myself. Shot 619 tonight not super but better at least. Slumps happen and your right about expectations maybe your expectations have gotten ahead of themselves.

I've had surgery on both knees so I know what it's like to have to start with some Advil and feel bad after a 6 game stretch. I can compete with the high average guys when they are having a bad game I'd like to get to where I'm competitive with them all the time. I don't know if it will ever happen. I may never be better than a slightly above average bowler. I would love to be able to play in the local tournaments as more than a donator. Not sure I'll ever get there. I can make some friends, occasionally win my handicap league, and maybe have a few good weeks and convince myself I'm better than I really am. At the end of the day I'm better off than if I didn't bowl

[bubba809]

Man o man I bet the Iceman is chomping at the bit on this one.




We know you're creepin out there old man. C'mon, jump in!!!

[Aslan]

Man o man I bet the Iceman is chomping at the bit on this one.

We know you're creepin out there old man. C'mon, jump in!!!

Don't encourage him. The last thing I need is him both reassuring me that I simply lack "The Gift" and then offering miracle cancer cures from Dr. McGillicutty and the Aliens from Planet 20511 in sector VII.3 of the Moku Galaxy.

[Aslan]

Monday League: medium-oil synthetics, THS (38-40ft?) with some out of bounds at 1-3.

525 Series: 182-192-151

Game 1 went okay...but a couple missed single-pins. Another missed single-pin in Game 2...otherwise decent. Game 3 the booze started hitting me HARD!! This new plan of enjoying bowling and just getting hammered and play for fun....MAN! It was working out pretty good until Game 3. Phew....I'm still drunk as all hell(o) from Game 3...

Not much entertainment...the one guy we were bowling against said other bowlers were "watching me" because apparently I was throwing some pretty damn good shots. But wow...the alcohol eventually caught up with me and I'll be DAMNED if I could make a spare once I was toasted.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 45% (4 doubles and 5 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-9 and 6-10 baby split (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 175.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 192.67.

Well...the lesson with Mark Baker may have helped fix some problems and get me out of my slump...but I can't tell for sure since I'm drunk as a $3 whore.

Of what I can gather...I looked pretty damn good tonight. I guess I looked so good that some nearby bowlers were starting to take notice. But, I can't really tell. I'm wasted. And note to others...the FIRST thing to go when you're wasted....is apparently spare shooting...I swear on the last few attempts...those pins were moving on their own...avoiding my ball.

We lost 3 of 4...had I stayed sober....I "might" have been able to take 3 out of 4...but we lost 3 out of 4...and I've had the hiccups since I left the alley...ughhhhj.

[bubba809]

So you sat down and typed this while you were hammered with hiccups?? Wow, if I had too much at the alley the last thing I feel like doing is expressing my feeling on a website. And they weren't "watching" your bowling style, they were "watching" your Charlie Sheen-like shirts.

[Aslan]

So you sat down and typed this while you were hammered with hiccups??
What am I supposed to do hammered with hiccups?? And don't suggest any lady-sensitive activities or you'll make Bowl1820 mad. We're talking about getting hammered....but in a family friendly way and a way that dignifies women. True dat.


Wow, if I had too much at the alley the last thing I feel like doing is expressing my feeling on a website.
Where would you express your feelings? You aren't one of those guys that'll just get naked and sing songs on the overpass and cause traffic problems are you? I may be wasted...but not wasted enough to get tazed over it.


And they weren't "watching" your bowling style, they were "watching" your Charlie Sheen-like shirts.
I was wearing one of my more flashy bowling shirts...so thats a possibility. And as usual, I was looking sexy as hell. So, I see your point.

And, for those enquiring minds that want to know...yes, I was on my bathroom floor at 3:00AM grasping my toilet for dear life...and no, that was not as fun as it sounds. I now remove my endorsement for Bud Ice...it is evil...and cost our team 2 points. I am now banning it from my training regiment.

Sidenote (and standard disclaimers apply): See, THIS is why I need that Heather D'Erricho bowler to fall madly in love with me. I need that constant coaching and mental preparedness that a coach and life partner can offer. She sees that the Bud Ice is negatively affecting my spare game...maybe I cut off the drinks a little earlier...and then make history. But without that voice of reason...I'm left to my own devices...and that almost never ends well.

[bubba809]

I am now 100% in full support of a female bowler (Pro OR non Pro) hooking up with Aslan. Has this man not suffered enough??!!?! A straight shooting dominant woman is what this man needs in his life. You will see his priorities sway. Give him a chance ladies, he has earned it!!

[Aslan]

I am now 100% in full support of a female bowler (Pro OR non Pro) hooking up with Aslan. Has this man not suffered enough??!!?! A straight shooting dominant woman is what this man needs in his life. You will see his priorities sway. Give him a chance ladies, he has earned it!!

See...Bubba gets it. Nobody else gets it, but Bubba...he understands.

[Blacksox1]

I hope that you find this woman before the move to Iowa. CA > IOWA

[classygranny]

but I can't tell for sure since I'm drunk as a $3 whore.


but in a family friendly way and a way that dignifies women.

OXYMORON....:):confused: LOL

[NewToBowling]

OXYMORON....:):confused: LOL

He's a man whore :)

[Aslan]

OXYMORON....:):confused: LOL

Okay....$4 whore. Gosh...the world is so politically correct. How many $$s is enough to transition from it being a derogatory description to a respectable profession that deserves it's workers to be well paid, medically taken care of, and respected professionally in a safe working environment?? I don't know. Probably more than $3. Maybe $30. Maybe $300. Maybe $3000. I don't know the answers to these macro level questions.

What I DO know...I learn from my surroundings and interactions with others. Appreciating how wonderful and special everyone is and doing my part to enhance their bowling lives....positive...generally. Rating the top 20 most attractive members or assigning a low $ amount to certain professions....generally a negative. I find this route to be longer than my previous plan of deeming what is socially acceptable based on "WWMTD" or "WWDTD" (What Would Mike Tyson Do or What Would Donald Trump Do)...but I feel eventually I will become a "better" person for it. Granted, a far more boring person...but overall "better".

[classygranny]

Okay....$4 whore. Gosh...the world is so politically correct. How many $$s is enough to transition from it being a derogatory description to a respectable profession that deserves it's workers to be well paid, medically taken care of, and respected professionally in a safe working environment?? I don't know. Probably more than $3. Maybe $30. Maybe $300. Maybe $3000. I don't know the answers to these macro level questions.

What I DO know...I learn from my surroundings and interactions with others. Appreciating how wonderful and special everyone is and doing my part to enhance their bowling lives....positive...generally. Rating the top 20 most attractive members or assigning a low $ amount to certain professions....generally a negative. I find this route to be longer than my previous plan of deeming what is socially acceptable based on "WWMTD" or "WWDTD" (What Would Mike Tyson Do or What Would Donald Trump Do)...but I feel eventually I will become a "better" person for it. Granted, a far more boring person...but overall "better".

Whoa...I did put an LOL as I truly thought your posts were funny, yet contradicting.

In answer to your above question, most brothels in NV charge a minimum of $150-$300. Most workers at these legal establishments, thus meeting your requirements above, make about $3K per week.

Forget about being a "better" person, I sorta like you the way you are...at least the online version. Some of your posts can just take my breath away, while some make me laugh out loud. Opening your posts reminds me of Forrest Gump box of chocolates...."you never know what you're going to get". Keep up the good work! But try and relax when you bowl!

[Timmyb]

The posts keep me laughing. As droll as some forums can get, this one by far is the most entertaining I've seen!

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: medium-oil synthetics. Was hoping to play around 8-9 at the dots but had to move outside to 6-7 at the dots. Pretty much straight up and in. I practiced a couple games on a burnt lane just to get my blood pumping and my practice shots out of the way. Didn't keep score though. I was kinda high and forgot.

576 Series: 200-187-189

Game 1 I ran some strikes together in the middle; but I missed a single 10-pin and got the 4-7-10 in the 10th to kinda put a damper on the performance.

Game 2 was a missed single 6-pin away from a Dutch 200. I was kinda excited I might get a 200 triplicate and a Dutch 200 on the same night.

Game 3 was very much like Game 1...a missed 6-10 and a 6-7-10 split...otherwise clean.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.25 pins
Strikes: 50% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, and 9 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 192.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 199.67.

Hard to be upset when I really only opened a handful of times...and two of those were tough splits. But, not happy about the spare shooting in terms of missing a 6-poin, 10-pin, and 6-10. I can't get to the next level missing easy spares.

My stupid average is now down to 199...198 after tonight. It sucks to bowl so well and still barely help your team if not hurt them by rolling a 187 and 189. But, fortunately we took all 4 points. Probably too little too late at this point...but the season is far from over.

[Amyers]

Wednesday League: medium-oil synthetics. Was hoping to play around 8-9 at the dots but had to move outside to 6-7 at the dots. Pretty much straight up and in. I practiced a couple games on a burnt lane just to get my blood pumping and my practice shots out of the way. Didn't keep score though. I was kinda high and forgot.

576 Series: 200-187-189

Game 1 I ran some strikes together in the middle; but I missed a single 10-pin and got the 4-7-10 in the 10th to kinda put a damper on the performance.

Game 2 was a missed single 6-pin away from a Dutch 200. I was kinda excited I might get a 200 triplicate and a Dutch 200 on the same night.

Game 3 was very much like Game 1...a missed 6-10 and a 6-7-10 split...otherwise clean.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.25 pins
Strikes: 50% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, and 9 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 192.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 199.67.

Hard to be upset when I really only opened a handful of times...and two of those were tough splits. But, not happy about the spare shooting in terms of missing a 6-poin, 10-pin, and 6-10. I can't get to the next level missing easy spares.

My stupid average is now down to 199...198 after tonight. It sucks to bowl so well and still barely help your team if not hurt them by rolling a 187 and 189. But, fortunately we took all 4 points. Probably too little too late at this point...but the season is far from over.

Not too bad 80% spare shooting isn't terrible. I threw three last night 174-171-208 each game should have been 210+ first 2 had really good looks but missed one spare and left 2 splits last game let one get high in the 10 for another split. It is frustrating when your throwing the ball well and still screwing something up.

[Aslan]

Not too bad 80% spare shooting isn't terrible. I threw three last night 174-171-208 each game should have been 210+ first 2 had really good looks but missed one spare and left 2 splits last game let one get high in the 10 for another split. It is frustrating when your throwing the ball well and still screwing something up.

Well...it "felt" better. I can't explain it other than that...but Monday and Wednesday of this week...even though I was in the 525-575 range...all the games (minus one where I was drunk off my BOOtay) I seemed more in control, making good shots, leaving "leaves" that I should be leaving, etc... And you're right...80% isn't bad.

It's another reason I like using PinPal. At the end of the night...I often feel like I totally failed. But then I take a breath, look at the stats, and realize....it wasn't as bad as I thought it was. I would have thought I only made 40% of my single-pin spares. Why? Because I remember every single one I missed...but only some of the ones I converted.

The lesson with Mark Baker on Sunday morning really helped. He didn't really do anything that Rob hasn't told me from time to time...just slowing my footwork down a bit and not rushing the line...but we made a couple other slight changes. I gotta get around to video taping me one of these days.

[Amyers]

Well...it "felt" better. I can't explain it other than that...but Monday and Wednesday of this week...even though I was in the 525-575 range...all the games (minus one where I was drunk off my BOOtay) I seemed more in control, making good shots, leaving "leaves" that I should be leaving, etc... And you're right...80% isn't bad.

It's another reason I like using PinPal. At the end of the night...I often feel like I totally failed. But then I take a breath, look at the stats, and realize....it wasn't as bad as I thought it was. I would have thought I only made 40% of my single-pin spares. Why? Because I remember every single one I missed...but only some of the ones I converted.

The lesson with Mark Baker on Sunday morning really helped. He didn't really do anything that Rob hasn't told me from time to time...just slowing my footwork down a bit and not rushing the line...but we made a couple other slight changes. I gotta get around to video taping me one of these days.

I actually worked with a coach (not USBC certified as apparently that's impossible here but he is a current Senior PBA bowler) for an hour yesterday myself (first time) felt like it went pretty well mainly just worked on some changes is my ball height at the start and hand positions. wasn't paying any attention to the score after the lesson looked up and I rolled 230 during it and didn't even know it. Felt like I had a little better ball speed and the ball was picking up farther down the lane which are both things I needed. Everything he suggested I had been told before or read about but couldn't seem to apply them to my game. I guess sometimes it just has to be you being at the right point to be able to use the information.

[Aslan]

Yeah. Most of my problem is timing related. So if I get to the line too soon, I tend to "pull" the ball down after my slide is sort of finished. And the problematic long first step...my high speed approach, etc... All these things exasperbated the problem because they made me get to the line even sooner. And the further I'd move back, the more I'd subconsciously compensate and speed up my approach.

And then there's the drift issue. The more I move inside...the more I have a tendency to drift right. If it's 0-3 boards...not a huge deal. But if it's 4-9 boards...I lose the ability to have any angle whatsoever. So, lots of boring little timing related things...but things that are apparently vital and crucial to actually performing at an average level.

[NewToBowling]

How much does Mark Baker charge per session?

[Aslan]

How much does Mark Baker charge per session?

$100/hour

[classygranny]

How much does Mark Baker charge per session?


$100/hour

And worth every penny. He has a way of coaching that I have yet to see anywhere else. You can get an hour for $80 if you don't want the video. But, the video is great!

[Aslan]

And worth every penny. He has a way of coaching that I have yet to see anywhere else. You can get an hour for $80 if you don't want the video. But, the video is great!

Every coach has a different style. Some coaches are more technical, others are more physical. Some have a proven method they've used before and try to put you on that track, others cater the lesson differently every time to every different bowler.

What I think makes Mark's lessons different (after receiving instruction from probably 5-10 different "pros/coaches" is (in no particular order):

- He's very confident. Almost cocky. It's not a lesson/environment where you immediately feel comfortable asking questions or questioning something he says. That can be good or bad. But on the 'good' side...you just feel confident as the student that this guy knows his stuff and there's nothing (no matter how horrible you are) that he can't fix quickly ans easily.

- He has a method...his philosophies have held up to scrutiny over the entire globe...and it just seems like no matter where you and your game are...from beginner to hall of famer...he can quickly insert you into that system.

- He's able to see things very quickly and notice very small things that are going to slip by most observers/coaches. Like I've said before, he noticed the same things other coaches noticed...reinforcing that those other coaches knew what they were talking about...but he noticed those things almost instantly.

- If you're like me....and you like talking to bowlers who have stories and can tell you about being a pro and all the experiences and personalities and history....then Mark's the coach for you. You just have to make sure, like I do, not to spend too much lesson time on listening to stories. It seems like each lesson I walk away a better bowler...but I also walk away learning something about a certain PBA pro or some little known story about a hall of fame bowler or even bowling/movie stories.

From what I've seen....the better the coach;
1) The more quickly they can get to the root of your problems.
2) The more quickly they can correct the problems (above).
3) They have the ability to teach...and to get their teachings across...without frustrating the student.

Is the lesson worth $100/hour??? :confused: :confused: I'm kinda a cheap bus-tard....so I have to admit $100 is a bit steep. But if it's something I'm doing once a month...I figure it's worth it. I think a small amount of the "premium" is you're getting coached by the same person that coaches PBA National Tour players. That's a very rare resume item for bowling coaches. You'll find lots of bronze level, if you're lucky some silver level....maybe a pro that once competed on the National Tour (or still does)....or once in a very blue moon...a gold level coach. But to find a coach that actively coaches not one, but many PBA professionals...that's a very rare resume item.

[Aslan]

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament:

I just do this tournament to practice on league-oiled lanes...but I think they didn't oil all the way down because there were way more people than usual.

535 Series: 204-173-158

Game 1 was better than the score indicates. I missed a single 10-pin in the 6th and then a single 9-pin in the 8th. I used the Asylum in the first couple frames but even though I was striking (badly), I decided to switch to the Pearls and go to the Melee Jab. And it did great...7 of my 11 strikes were using the Jab during Game 1 and most of Game 2.

Game 2 was a repeat of Game 1 except I opened on not only a single 10-pin, but a 4-7 that I chopped...my dropped shot that only took out the 6-9-10 and ended up bring an open...and one of the opens was in the foundation frame.

In the last frame of Game 2...and then all of Game 3, I balled down to the Loaded Revolver but I just wasn't getting enough movement out of it. A great many weak, high hits or missing the headpin...maybe a washout 2-3 times. So Game 3 was very similar to Game 2 in terms of having 3 opens...but I only struck twice in Game 3...so I get the damm 158.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.75 pins
Strikes: 34% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, and 4 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 4-7 (3x)

Splits: 50% (1/2).

Average over 3 games: 178.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 189.67.

Not terrible. The spare shooting was lackluster. Work in progress. A shame I lost my line though. I was looking pretty good until I started missing some make-able spares and I got rattled.

[J Anderson]

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament:

I just do this tournament to practice on league-oiled lanes...but I think they didn't oil all the way down because there were way more people than usual.


Not terrible. The spare shooting was lackluster. Work in progress. A shame I lost my line though. I was looking pretty good until I started missing some make-able spares and I got rattled.

I don't get the connection between the length oiled and the number of people. Do they advertise that that the pattern is shorter and more people show up or, being in California, the people sense a " disturbance in the Force" that lets them know the lanes weren't oiled all the way down and therefore decide to enter?

[Aslan]

I don't get the connection between the length oiled and the number of people. Do they advertise that that the pattern is shorter and more people show up or, being in California, the people sense a " disturbance in the Force" that lets them know the lanes weren't oiled all the way down and therefore decide to enter?

A guy affiliated with the alley (I don't know how) puts on this "tournament" every week. It's more of a "fun thing".

Well, because it's on a Saturday night...and they oil before the tournament starts....they usually only oil 3 pairs or sometimes 4 pairs....5 or 6 pairs if they anticipate a lot of people.

The problem is....if they underestimate...they usually don't have the guy come back out with the oil machine. I know he was put there oiling because I saw him. But I only saw him oil 3-5 pairs and I think we used 6-7 pairs because the guy's (who runs it) wife was celebrating her birthday...so a bunch of people showed up.

So, what I meant by "oil all the way down" is the guy with the machine...he stopped after oiling 3-5 lanes...and the tournament ended up needing 6-7.

As to why they wouldn't just oil the whole side...it's a Saturday night and if they do that they may have to turn away people while oiling and then probably not even need half of the lanes on that side.

The lanes at this house....for some reason....probably age since this is an older house...they transition faster than other places I play. And there actually can be significant variation from lane to lane. The approaches/lanes are so questionable that during the tournament I could see the lane surface move up and down when the ball landed on it. It was an older lady that dropped the ball just pass the foul line and the lane surface moved up and down looking like there was a fairly decent sized crack between the lanes and approach.

So at these lanes...the fresh oil doesn't stay fresh for long...so it's very apparent when they've been oiled or not. I think it would be an impossible house to throw an 800 or 900 at. I've seen people have great games...but it seems like they do well for one game when the lanes match their style...but that only lasts for a short time. So you end up having to move laterally faster than you're comfortable.

And for my arsenal, if I get too far inside, my solids don't "work" anymore. They just don't have 'snap' at the end...and I wouldn't expect that of solids. So then I have to use my hybrids and pearls...which makes me move further inside than I am comfortable with.

But I figured explaining it this way would be long and boring. And I was right.

[Aslan]

Monday League: medium-heavy oil synthetics, THS (40-42ft?) with some out of bounds at 1-3.

502 Series: 153-185-164

I struggled in Game 1 trying to find a line and my spare shooting was miserable.

Game 2 was a chopped 1-3-9 away from a clean game. But too few strikes to get above 200.

Game 3 I never struck. I missed a single 5-pin in the 3rd frame and a single 4-pin in the 4th frame.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.62 pins
Strikes: 25% (2 doubles and 4 singles)
Spares: 69% picked up

Single Pin spares: 76% (10/13)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin and 7-pin (4x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4 and 2-4-5 (2x each).

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 167.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 178.33.

Striking 25% is a rough night. Looking at the stats, the spare shooting was better than I predicted. Normally missing 3 single-pins in a night is a bad night...but I guess it's not quite as if you made 10.

I tried to play outside...similar to where I was at Saturday...but the fresh oil is just too long. It played a lot like the longer PBA sport shots...where outside of second arrow won't come back. So I spent most of my night playing a very tight line up 11-12 at the dots; 9-10 at the arrows. No miss room though. I miss slightly right left me weak hits and I had to hope misses left struck brooklyn. No splits though, so that was helpful.

And sidenote...even though these are scores of the "non-lady" kind...an update on the younger female bowler on the team...I guess I don't have to watch her make out with the young guy on the team because they broke up and he quit the team. Wonderful.

I thought that would give me an opening...but by Game 2 she had found a young guy that wanted to join the league and is also a guy she is kinda sweet on. So I guess the problem didn't go away...it's just gonna be a new dude to make out with. Ugh...

League average in this house down to 174 as the slump continues... :(

[bubba809]

Chin up Buckeroo. Have you given any thought about "switching sides"?

[NewToBowling]

Mean lefty or are you referring to something else entirely?

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: low-oil synthetics; easy THS.

659 Series: 220-245-194

Two missed single-pins in Game 1, but I struck 8 times so that helped.

Didn't make any lateral adjustments for Game 2; but should have to stay ahead of the transition. Using my system, I was supposed to make a 1 (target) and 2 (feet) move left before the shot in frame 9 of Game 2. But, I was enjoying striking so much that I totally forgot to move and my only open was a chopped baby split (3-10).

Game 3 was clean except for a missed single 10-pin in the 4th frame. Couldn't run strikes together though.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.53 pins
Strikes: 64% (1 6-bagger, 1 5-bagger, 3 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Only left the following single pins: 2-pin, 3-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (1/3)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a (3 different leaves)

Splits: 0% (0/1).

Average over 3 games: 219.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 231.67.

I guess my lesson last night helped. The stats paint a pretty clear picture...completely in contrast to what I posted after Monday's league. I can't expect to roll an 800 or even a 700 if I miss makable spares.

The lanes had a decent amount of dry area outside with what appears to be a shorter (36-37ft). But, I may be wrong; it could have been 40-42ft in the middle of the lane.

The pattern seemed to have too much dry outside to use the Lethal Revolver (LeR) so I started off with the Dark Encounter (DE). Probably should have balled down earlier once I started to lose carry. Left a weak 7-pin in the 1st frame, a week 10-pin in the 4th frame, then back-to-back weak 10-pins in the 6th and 7th frames. I balled down to the Asylum and first shot was a perfect strike, so I probably should have switched to the Asylum more towards the beginning versus the last 3 frames.

At my lesson yesterday night, we identified one of my bowling limitations which is the ability to SEE how the ball is reacting (much less see it of teammates and opponents). So, thats something I'll have to learn.

The team took 3 points out of 4 and we're gonna end up somewhere between 11th and 2nd with tonights 3 points. Even though I'm not the anchor on this team, I was trying to outscore their anchor to push/pace myself. But, beat me 2 out of 3 games with a 693 series. Being a 170s average bowler, it looks very strange when I shoot a 194 yet didn't help the team because it's below my average.

[fortheloveofbowling]

Nice shooting.

[Mark O]

Nice set Aslan!

[Aslan]

Friday Holiday Practice: Home Center (Mon. League); medium-oil synthetics, seems like a longer pattern with a bit more length on the outside...causing the outside 5 boards to essentially be out-of-bounds.

Not sure if they're doing the Saturday tournament due to the holidays and was planning to maybe golf Saturday anyways...so figured I'd get some practice in at the center that I can't seem to get my average out of the 170s. I lucked out and got a pair that only had maybe 1-3 games on them but unfortunately it was the hardest pair in the house.

Warm-Up Game: 143
I started around the 12-board and the oil was obviously as fresh as they said because I spent most of warm-ups moving right to find an initial line.

533 Series: 191-122-220 (clean)

First 3 frames I was hitting light so I balled down to the Dark Encounter but it seemed to have similar struggles. Midway through Game 2 I balled down to the Asylum hoping it could give me some more length...but it was all over the place. So, Game 3 I balled down to the Melee Jab (courtesy of RobM when I was in Vegas in July) and it just started destroying the pins. I went on to strike 6 out of 7 times on the right lane. And if it weren't for a couple bad shots...I might have had 10 straight.

Unfortunately, this house the lanes transition rather quickly...and on the last shot, I knew it was time to switch again. The left me the Loaded Revolver for the last 3 games.

533 Series: 192-162-179

Normally I'd say "remarkably" consistent with back-to-back 533s...but it's more like "non-remarkable yet similar".

The Loaded Revolver just didn't have the same bit that the Jab did. The coverstocks and RGs are similar, so I think Rob might be right regarding the technology difference because the only real difference is release date/technology. I had a decent line develop on the left lane, but couldn't find one again on the right lane. Might have been a good idea to use the Loaded Revolver on the left lane and the Jab on the right lane...but by the 7th game I was mentally shutting down. Now that I got so much going on in my head...I think the 12-game practice marathons are a thing of my past.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.51 pins
Strikes: 33% (1 6-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 15 singles)
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 76% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin (4x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (15/32)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5 and 1-2-4-10 (4x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4).

Average over 7 games: 172.71.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 177.57.

I learned some things...so the practice was definitely worth it.

In no specific order;
- I learned that there may be something to a lot of the stuff RobM talks about regarding balls losing energy. My coach talked about it on Tuesday and it was very similar to what Rob has been pointing out. It's an extremely important concept for me to finally gain some understanding of because prior to the light bulb going off....I'd have been trying to move far right with my earliest hooking ball when I started to hit light or miss right...when really you want to just use a ball that goes longer in the transition.

- I learned that my arsenal isn't perfect. Due to technology changes...it's possible I have the balls in the wrong order and/or 5 balls that end up giving me 2 looks (because some of them are too similar). That will continue to be a weakness until I can learn to read lanes better and faster.

- I recognized that this center is harder than I first believed. My coach used to bowl leagues there and said it was a very difficult house due to it's age and how very different certain pairs can behave. I shrugged that off as her just trying to feel better for apparently being a 170s bowler carrying a 190 average...but I made some very good shots this evening that missed a couple boards at the dots...and there was no forgiveness. Very little room for error in that house. So, moral of the story, I shouldn't hang myself over the 174 average just yet.

Most importantly, I learned that if I can combine what M. Baker has been working on with me regarding my first two steps...and combine that with what Missy has been working on regarding my last two steps....my approach/timing is essentially fixed. It DOES annoy me that it took me over a year to fix 4 steps when a baby could probably have learned to walk in that time...but I digress.

The DOWNside of today's practice is:
1) It hasn't solved too much...since there's really no guarantee the Jab will perform as well on another pair. But, I'm making better ball changes and seeing things better...so maybe I start with the Jab next week...maybe I don't...but at least I should be able to read things better in practice.
2) I didn't work on/fix the two things I actually INTENDED to work on/fix. I was wanting to get more single-pin spare practice in and work on my tendency to raise up during my shot...but I was so busy working on reading the ball movement and fixing my approach...I forgot.

[Timmyb]

"Game 3 I balled down to the Melee Jab (courtesy of RobM when I was in Vegas in July) and it just started destroying the pins."


I have that ball in my bag of tricks. When I'm at a house that transitions enough to use it, it is hell on wheels when it hits. Unfortunately, I've yet to run into that situation in my regular league, thus the IQ Nano.

[NYMIKE]

The Loaded Revolver just didn't have the same bit that the Jab did. The coverstocks and RGs are similar, so I think Rob might be right regarding the technology difference because the only real difference is release date/technology. I had a decent line develop on the left lane, but couldn't find one again on the right lane. Might have been a good idea to use the Loaded Revolver on the left lane and the Jab on the right lane...but by the 7th game I was mentally shutting down. Now that I got so much going on in my head...I think the 12-game practice marathons are a thing of my past.

Last Sunday I bowled 15 games (plus one game of throwing at 7 pin), I actually bowled better as the night went on, it was all you can bowl $10 special, my body held up well, however I ripped my thumb. I bowled again Monday (3 games with coach), and Tuesday (league night), my thumb got really bad, I was off this week Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, but with my thumb like that I cannot bowl till Tuesday the league night best case scenario.

[Aslan]

Monday League: lighter oil volume synthetics, plays like a longer THS (41-43ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4, transitions fast.

547 Series: 196-189-162

I've been thinking. My coach gave me a hint that my Monday league lanes transition quickly. So, how could they play so long and transition so quickly? So, I figured that maybe the reason I've been struggling at this house is similar to what RobM has been preaching...the solids aren't skidding...they're just used up that point...which explains the weak hits. So, instead of starting with my usual progression, I started with the Dark Encounter. The lanes were playing very different (which is usual for this house) so I was using the same ball, but the left lane I was playing far more inside than the right lane. Picked up a 2-5-7 split in the 5th to stay clean but missed the 10-pin in the 8th to ruin it.

I was thinking of balling down to the Asylum on the left lane as I was getting out of my comfort zone and figured I'd switch for both lanes to try and stay ahead of the transition. Took a couple shots to adjust for the ball change...probably a frame too early. Chopped a 2-5 in the first frame and then fouled in the 4th frame and could only get 9. Otherwise clean and the Asylum carried better than usual.

Similar to Game 2, I decided to ball down to the Melee Jab...which carried very well in the last practice session...but in Game 3 it was all over the place. Weak, then carrying okay, then gunning through the nose. Unfortunately, gunned through the nose in the 10th and while I did come closer to picking it up (without actually picking it up) than I probably ever had...the 6-7-10. An open in the 9th and 10th spells disaster for scoring.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 40% (3 doubles and 7 singles)
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin (2x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a (all 1x).

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 182.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 185.33.

I played better. I executed better. Had a problem with the foul line...sliding over it. I adjusted, but once it got in my head I started pulling up on some shots.

I thought my single-pin spare shooting was horrible until I checked the stats in PinPal and saw that I only missed that one 10-pin.

As for ball selection, I'm gonna try starting with the Dark Encounter again, unless practice dictates otherwise. But I'm starting to finally understand burning up/loos of energy a little better.

The team is horrible. The girl I liked is now banging the new guy bowler on the team...so it's back to kiss faces all night. And this one can't even bowl. The league makes new male bowlers start at 175 for 12 games...so we'll be getting killed in handicap for a month since he's about a 135 bowler. Thats okay. Wednesday is the serious league.

[Amyers]

Looks like your figuring some stuff out. Why did you change from the Asylum for game 3?

[Aslan]

Looks like your figuring some stuff out. Why did you change from the Asylum for game 3?
It was complicated because the lanes played so differently and I prefer not to use different balls on each lane because then I either have to use one VISE insert that fits and one that "sorta fits" or I gotta keep switching them around between frames.

So, on one lane, I probably wouldn't have switched balls at the start of Game 3, but on the other lane I was getting too far inside and once I get around the 13-16 board area (at the dots), I just have too much speed and not enough rpms to get the ball to make the turn effectively...not to mention I lose all of my miss room with that shot.

So, mudpuppy (RIP) cliff notes version...in the 7th frame, I noticed the Asylum moving a bit too much (left the 6-9-10). I moved 2:1 left, but carried a light pocket strike in the 9th. I was considering staying with the Asylum on the left lane until I left the 4-9 split on the first fill ball after a strike (10th frame)...so rather than make a 1:1 left and keep throwing the Asylum on one lane...I just made a wholesale switch on both lanes to the Melee Jab.

One arsenal problem I'm having is that the Jab, while similar in specs to the Loaded Revolver, is more aggressive most likely due to the newer technology. And there's a 'possibility' that the Jab could even be stronger than the Asylum. So when treating your arsenal like a progression (which I am forced to do until I can learn to read the lanes better in practice), it's a ? whether the Jab should be 4th versus 3rd.

I've also been trying to add a slight 'adjustment' when switching balls to account for perhaps the arsenal not being perfect...just a slight lateral/target movement depending on the ball...to maximize the first shot carry after the switch. But...I abandoned that endeavor after my last lesson when I made a couple ball changes, no lateral movements, and things seemed to work fine.

The more questionable ball change was actually the D. Encounter to the Asylum. The DE was still hitting light on the right lane...but was starting to cause me to move a bit left on the left lane. I thought maybe the problem on the right lane was the solid cover burning up...and figured since I was seeing transition on the left...with the house being known for light volume and fast transition...maybe a ball change AHEAD of the transition would help. Remember that last Wednesday, I probably could have gotten a 700 series had I changed balls sooner...but I was trying to get every last bit out of the D. Encounter and things were going so well (220-245-) that I figured it was safer to stick with what was working. That left me with 3x 10-pins and a 7-pin in the first 7 frames of Game 3, before I finally balled down to the Asylum in the 8th. Tonight, unless things are goofy, I think I'll ball down at the start of Game 3...see how that goes.

I understand Rob's objections to those kind of pre-determined movements, but I just can't read my ball movement well enough (even with my new glasses) to get enough information NOT to have some type of system in place.

[vdubtx]

Sounds like a lot of over thinking it. But, this is Aslan we are talking about. :p

Since when is a 2-5-9 a split?

Sounds like some over under with the Melee in game 3.

No disputing that you have come a long way Aslan. Keep it up. :cool:

[Aslan]

Since when is a 2-5-9 a split?

Ooops. 2-5-7

It would be rather difficult to leave a 2-5-9. Ironically, you'd pick it up the same way most likely.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Easy THS, heavy oil volume in the middle, shorter (36-38ft) length, very dry outside.

This pair I usually do well on, but that was with my older, flatter release...tonight they presented a difficulty as this pair plays drier than the rest of the pairs.

553 Series: 219-159-175

Was doing well in practice with the Dark Encounter and Asylum so I decided to start out with the Asylum. Unfortunately, after leaving a flat 7-pin in the 3rd frame (my only open :( ) on a perfectly executed shot; I knew it was probably just too dry and the ball was losing too much energy to strike well. I switched to the Melee Jab on both lanes starting in the 4th frame but had to play much further inside (10-13 boards at the dots) than on the right lane where I was 9-10 at the dots.

Game 2 it was all weak hits on the left lane, trying to play that inside line and by frame 7 I switched to the Loaded Revolver on the left lane but kept throwing the Jab on the right lane. But, three open frames and no doubles as I struggled trying to figure out the proper ball/lane. That ended my brackets early! :mad:

Game 3 I was playing the Lo. Revolver on both lanes but the transition finally caught up with me on the right lane and I left (and subsequently chopped or missed) two consecutive 3-6-10s in the 7th and 9th frames. Struck all but one frame on the left lane as that line finally started to play a little better. Only 2 open frames, but costly ones.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 4-bagger, 2 doubles, and 6 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Only left the following single pins: 5-pin, 7-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 and 3-6-10 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 184.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 191.33.

Disappointing night, but the team took 3 of 4 points. I have to patient because it's going to take time to put all of the 5-7 physical elements together. First step is still too big, I still sometimes drop my shoulder on the push away, my balance was only "so-so", and my spine tilt was too inconsistent. Again did better on spares than I thought. The missed 7-pin, 10-pin, and the two failed attempts at the 3-6-10 really rattled me.

[Amyers]

Have you ever considered adding some polish to the DE? I think it would be interesting to see if you started with the Lethal or Asylum and had a shiny strong ball to move in with. You don't really have that in your current arsenal and I know you've been kind of disappointed in the DE it might be a good way to try using your balls a little differently. Maybe try 1000 polished on it. I could be wrong but with what you describe happening to you when you ball down I just think that might be the answer. Not a terrible night sometime the strikes just don't come together use a miss a spare or two and you end up with a 550 where you bowled well.

[Aslan]

I've been reluctant to alter the surfaces by sanding or polishing. My reasoning is:

1) Until you can totally tell when a ball is missing right versus losing energy...it's just a 'guess'.
2) It's debateable whether a surface change, especially by hand with abralon pads, actually does anything significant. By 'significant' I mean that there are arguments that can be made that such a surface change lasts only about 1 game. And since you can't re-surface between games (USBC rule), you have to hope that whatever you were trying to accomplish will be eased by transition after 1 game. For sanding, that's possible. For polishing, less so.
3) Last arsenal I experimented a LOT with surfacing and ultimately I think it made things worse. I was missing right, sanding, missing right, sanding, etc... And I think all that did is completely kill any chance of conserving energy for the pins. So, once bitten, twice shy.

And lastly, although I'll probably try your suggestion just out of curiosity if for no other reason, I've had trouble polishing bowling balls. I bought some of the Storm polish but to apply it by hand, it just doesn't seem to do much. And I'm reluctant to have a pro shop polish/surface the balls because you're paying $5-$15 and if it works...you now have to do that every night because the polish doesn't last very long. And I've also been reluctant to buy a ball spinner because most of the assembled units are poor quality and the more professional ones are extremely expensive. You can 'make' one...but by the time I buy all the individual parts to make it...it's a wash versus the purchase option.

I think this is the case of my arsenal still not being perfectly put together. The Lethal Revolver has a higher RG than the Dark Encounter...so I had planned for the Dark Encounter to be in the #1 spot and Lethal Revolver #2. But since they are different manufacturers...as RobM has talked about...it's not an apples to apples comparison. And since Brunswick balls tend to hook SOONER...and Columbia later...the decision was made to switch their order...

...but in retrospect...having two solids cover balls with the RGs backwards (usually you'd work your way UP in RG)...is sort of acting against the manufacturer differences...which long story short means they are probably too similar.

So, the reason I think I have struggled with the D.E. until recently....is I always start with the Le. Revolver and ball down to the D.E. But if the Le. Revolver is burning up...it's very likely the D.E. isn't the best ball down option. Lately I've been having success, but that's because I'm STARTING with the D.E....then balling down to the Hybrid Asylum.

RobM says the RGs are the key...I think the cover material is the key...but there's solid arguments on both sides. IDEALLY...in a 4-ball arsenal (progression style) you want:
#1 solid cover, low RG
#2 hybrid cover, medium RG
#3 pearl cover, high RG
#4 pearl cover, cery high RG

OR
#1 solid cover, low RG
#2 solid cover, high RG
#3 hybrid cover, medium RG
#4 pearl cover, medium to high RG

I set mine up as solid, solid, hybrid, pearl....which is ideal. But my RGs are all screwed up because they go high RG, low RG, medium RG, high RG. The first two balls...when you factor in RG and manufacturer...I think are too similar. And that's where your polish idea makes sense...to try to add separation between ball #1 and ball #2.

And that's why, if I do decide to bowl in a league or two next season...when I eventually make my arsenal change...I might actually go to a 2-ball arsenal, both pearls, really low RG (RG Defiant Edge) to really high RG (Track 300A). I lose a lot of versatility...but it gets me down to one 3-ball bag (half what I lug around now), with two strike balls that are going to behave differently almost for certain.

But, to really pull off using Pearls...you need a good release. It's all about getting them to a breakpoint and the rpms giving you angle. With lower revs, pearls are just straight balls with a little hook at the end. I'm starting to improve my release and delivery to the point where hopefully I can do better with pearls than I did with my last arsenal. As my revs are increasing, solids are going to be difficult to use on a house shot...unless I add more speed...and I don't need that.

[Amyers]

I've been reluctant to alter the surfaces by sanding or polishing. My reasoning is:

1) Until you can totally tell when a ball is missing right versus losing energy...it's just a 'guess'.
2) It's debateable whether a surface change, especially by hand with abralon pads, actually does anything significant. By 'significant' I mean that there are arguments that can be made that such a surface change lasts only about 1 game. And since you can't re-surface between games (USBC rule), you have to hope that whatever you were trying to accomplish will be eased by transition after 1 game. For sanding, that's possible. For polishing, less so.
3) Last arsenal I experimented a LOT with surfacing and ultimately I think it made things worse. I was missing right, sanding, missing right, sanding, etc... And I think all that did is completely kill any chance of conserving energy for the pins. So, once bitten, twice shy.

And lastly, although I'll probably try your suggestion just out of curiosity if for no other reason, I've had trouble polishing bowling balls. I bought some of the Storm polish but to apply it by hand, it just doesn't seem to do much. And I'm reluctant to have a pro shop polish/surface the balls because you're paying $5-$15 and if it works...you now have to do that every night because the polish doesn't last very long. And I've also been reluctant to buy a ball spinner because most of the assembled units are poor quality and the more professional ones are extremely expensive. You can 'make' one...but by the time I buy all the individual parts to make it...it's a wash versus the purchase option.

I think this is the case of my arsenal still not being perfectly put together. The Lethal Revolver has a higher RG than the Dark Encounter...so I had planned for the Dark Encounter to be in the #1 spot and Lethal Revolver #2. But since they are different manufacturers...as RobM has talked about...it's not an apples to apples comparison. And since Brunswick balls tend to hook SOONER...and Columbia later...the decision was made to switch their order...

...but in retrospect...having two solids cover balls with the RGs backwards (usually you'd work your way UP in RG)...is sort of acting against the manufacturer differences...which long story short means they are probably too similar.

So, the reason I think I have struggled with the D.E. until recently....is I always start with the Le. Revolver and ball down to the D.E. But if the Le. Revolver is burning up...it's very likely the D.E. isn't the best ball down option. Lately I've been having success, but that's because I'm STARTING with the D.E....then balling down to the Hybrid Asylum.

RobM says the RGs are the key...I think the cover material is the key...but there's solid arguments on both sides. IDEALLY...in a 4-ball arsenal (progression style) you want:
#1 solid cover, low RG
#2 hybrid cover, medium RG
#3 pearl cover, high RG
#4 pearl cover, cery high RG

OR
#1 solid cover, low RG
#2 solid cover, high RG
#3 hybrid cover, medium RG
#4 pearl cover, medium to high RG

I set mine up as solid, solid, hybrid, pearl....which is ideal. But my RGs are all screwed up because they go high RG, low RG, medium RG, high RG. The first two balls...when you factor in RG and manufacturer...I think are too similar. And that's where your polish idea makes sense...to try to add separation between ball #1 and ball #2.

And that's why, if I do decide to bowl in a league or two next season...when I eventually make my arsenal change...I might actually go to a 2-ball arsenal, both pearls, really low RG (RG Defiant Edge) to really high RG (Track 300A). I lose a lot of versatility...but it gets me down to one 3-ball bag (half what I lug around now), with two strike balls that are going to behave differently almost for certain.

But, to really pull off using Pearls...you need a good release. It's all about getting them to a breakpoint and the rpms giving you angle. With lower revs, pearls are just straight balls with a little hook at the end. I'm starting to improve my release and delivery to the point where hopefully I can do better with pearls than I did with my last arsenal. As my revs are increasing, solids are going to be difficult to use on a house shot...unless I add more speed...and I don't need that.

I get where your coming from. Do not try to polish a ball by hand. Take it to the proshop and have them do it. The pearl finishes seem to wear better to me than the lower grit finishes they are good for 25-50 games even if you pay $15/35 games that's .42 a game. Hand sanding is great to help keep your ball in shape between resurfaces it's not anywhere near the same as taking the ball to the proshop every 30-50 at most and have them redo it.

Just my thought I know you lack that strong pearl and weren't really happy with the DE. $15 bucks is a quick way to get a different look and if it doesn't work you can always change it back. The other thing about adding polish it's not just about keeping it from burning up it's about allowing it to save energy for a bigger turn on the back.

[RobLV1]

Polish it once on a spinner and clean it after each use, and the polish will last at least 30 games. As for the whole solid, pearl, hybrid nonsense, take a pearl and hit it hard (on a spinner) with 500 abralon, and take a solid with a similar core at 2000 and add polish, and I'll bet you that the solid with the polish gets further down the lane. The material might account for 25% of the cover reaction, but the surface accounts for the other 75%!

[Aslan]

Polish it once on a spinner and clean it after each use, and the polish will last at least 30 games. As for the whole solid, pearl, hybrid nonsense, take a pearl and hit it hard (on a spinner) with 500 abralon, and take a solid with a similar core at 2000 and add polish, and I'll bet you that the solid with the polish gets further down the lane. The material might account for 25% of the cover reaction, but the surface accounts for the other 75%!

I'm gonna try it.

Not the polished solid versus sanded pearl experiment. That sounds interesting, but non-productive. Whats the point of making my solid behave like a pearl and my pearl behave like a solid? I mean, okay...if I only have 1-2 balls I guess I'm stuck doing a lot of surface manipulation if I'm playing in multiple houses...but with a 190 average...my tournament play is on hold for 1-3 years while I recover to normalcy.

But I will hit the Le. Revolver with a 2000 abralon pad by hand and have the D. Encounter polished per your and Amyers' recommendations. Worth a try.

The problem with surface is like you've said about OOB. Sure, you can try to re-create any surface...but how long will it last? You can't re-surface between games. So you polish up a Mastermind and after 1-4 frames realize it's going longer than you want...I guess you gotta start altering your speed/release/approach because you're stuck with it. At least for that series.

And I agree that surface trumps cover. And cover trumps RG. I was just saying that I'd rather have more than one ball to go to than try to figure out the best surface for 1-2 balls before throwing the first shot of the series and then being stuck with it. Kinda like, you can alter your speed, your release, your loft, or your line. Most people have 1-3 they prefer FAR more than messing with the other 1-3.

Me, I'd rather move laterally than switch balls...especially if it makes me use one ball on one lane and another ball on the other lane.
BUT...only until I'm about 20-21 with my left toe. Once I get further inside....where I'm not comfortable....my next choice is a ball change.
IF I CAN'T change balls because I'm at the top or bottom of my progression...then it's like a presidential race....choosing the best of a few bad options.
I'd PROBABLY go speed next...but I'd be worried about my timing.
I MIGHT try a change in release (axis tilt)...but that's a pooshoot.
And I USUALLY stay away from altering my loft because it's just too easy to get back into old, bad habits if I start throwing like I'm playing horseshoes.

But that's not any more or less correct than anyone else's list of preferences. It's all about how big of a skill set you have and how big a comfort zone that allows you. The pros can play gutter to gutter with any ball...especially on a THS. Most can bowl with the wrong hand and beat most amateurs on a THS. And that's reason #1116 why I am not a pro. My range is 6-12 boards. Outside of 6...it's gonna be a night with 1-3 gutters. Inside of 12....the scores are gonna be lower.

And the sad thing is, I've been bowling for 27 months and my comfort zone is 6 boards...yet the vast majority of league bowlers I see have been bowling 27 years and their range is about 3 boards...9-11.

[Amyers]

I'm gonna try it.

Not the polished solid versus sanded pearl experiment. That sounds interesting, but non-productive. Whats the point of making my solid behave like a pearl and my pearl behave like a solid? I mean, okay...if I only have 1-2 balls I guess I'm stuck doing a lot of surface manipulation if I'm playing in multiple houses...but with a 190 average...my tournament play is on hold for 1-3 years while I recover to normalcy.

But I will hit the Le. Revolver with a 2000 abralon pad by hand and have the D. Encounter polished per your and Amyers' recommendations. Worth a try.

The problem with surface is like you've said about OOB. Sure, you can try to re-create any surface...but how long will it last? You can't re-surface between games. So you polish up a Mastermind and after 1-4 frames realize it's going longer than you want...I guess you gotta start altering your speed/release/approach because you're stuck with it. At least for that series.

And I agree that surface trumps cover. And cover trumps RG. I was just saying that I'd rather have more than one ball to go to than try to figure out the best surface for 1-2 balls before throwing the first shot of the series and then being stuck with it. Kinda like, you can alter your speed, your release, your loft, or your line. Most people have 1-3 they prefer FAR more than messing with the other 1-3.

Me, I'd rather move laterally than switch balls...especially if it makes me use one ball on one lane and another ball on the other lane.
BUT...only until I'm about 20-21 with my left toe. Once I get further inside....where I'm not comfortable....my next choice is a ball change.
IF I CAN'T change balls because I'm at the top or bottom of my progression...then it's like a presidential race....choosing the best of a few bad options.
I'd PROBABLY go speed next...but I'd be worried about my timing.
I MIGHT try a change in release (axis tilt)...but that's a pooshoot.
And I USUALLY stay away from altering my loft because it's just too easy to get back into old, bad habits if I start throwing like I'm playing horseshoes.

But that's not any more or less correct than anyone else's list of preferences. It's all about how big of a skill set you have and how big a comfort zone that allows you. The pros can play gutter to gutter with any ball...especially on a THS. Most can bowl with the wrong hand and beat most amateurs on a THS. And that's reason #1116 why I am not a pro. My range is 6-12 boards. Outside of 6...it's gonna be a night with 1-3 gutters. Inside of 12....the scores are gonna be lower.

And the sad thing is, I've been bowling for 27 months and my comfort zone is 6 boards...yet the vast majority of league bowlers I see have been bowling 27 years and their range is about 3 boards...9-11.

If I polish my Mastermind it doesn't take 3 or 4 frames to figure it's to long more like 1 to 2 balls at most. If it is odds are good I'm throwing it in the wrong spot on a THS pattern and that's why you carry multiple balls.

I've been back bowling for a little over 2 years and my areas is from 5-17 although it's rare I'm outside 10. I think more important is how much can you vary your breakpoint I can change from 5-14. It doesn't really matter where it starts its where it ends up.

If your at the end of your progression during league somethings wrong. Your playing the lanes in the wrong spot with a four ball Arsenal.

[Aslan]

My current theory is that as my release improves, it's going to be more and more common that I'm near the end of my progression on league night.

And realize this is just the current theory...
...but I think solids and sanded balls are a crutch for people that can't generate rpms and stay behind the ball. Throwing a solid allowed me to come more up the side of the ball or do a suitcase release...and most of the time on a THS the ball could find the pocket. Some nights, carry. Some nights not so much.

But it allowed me to play WHERE I wanted to play, HOW I wanted to play. Moving to the pearl side of the progression...I had to move inside...and I don't like the inside. I lose my miss room. I have to lower my speed. I have to improve my release. Most bowlers don't want that...that's too much work. It's easier to buy the newest, strongest ball and sand it down...and keep firing it up the 5-10 boards.

As my release improved...the light hits went from me "missing right" to me just not carrying. And that's more indicative of a bad ball/lane reaction...so as I ball down...suddenly I'm using the Jab on the same line I used to use the solids.

At my last lesson with Mr. Baker...he saw my progression and suggested I get some balls that are a bit weaker. WEAKER!!? :eek: But that makes sense. I'm not bowling on the PBA Shark pattern or USBC White pattern. I'm bowling on a THS. With a good release and timing...you shouldn't need a Guru or Mastermind or Hyper Cell to get to the pocket....and you're just as likely to lose energy before hitting the pocket with those balls up the outside.

And I'm not what I'd call a "Breakpoint bowler" at this point in time. I still subscribe to the concept that the closer the target, the easier it is to hit it. I can't get past that to the point where I'd suggest to someone that they aim for a target 40ft away. And that's one of my problems with being able to "read" a lot in practice. You say you can tell everything in two shots. That's one shot per lane. That assumes, I think, that you can execute a shot in an above average way...hitting your target both times...and off those two shots see what you need to see. Man, if I could execute like that and always hit my target...who knows...maybe I could try multiple lines and every ball in my arsenal in a 15-minute practice. But, like most bowlers...my first shot is usually a "getting used to throwing a ball"...then 3-5 shots where hopefully a few of them are good enough that I can make some kind of determination...and then maybe I get a shot to try a different line or another ball...maybe not...depends on how many of the 8-10 bowlers are practicing on the pair.

[Amyers]

What you will find as you continue to improve your release is not that you go through your balls faster (unless your being stubborn and trying to stay in the same spot) but that your game changes and you start to play more right to left instead of straight down the lane. You will also find a new use for those solid balls as you will need equipment the reads the oil in the correct spot on the lane once you start actually using the oil.

I wasn't referring to targeting the break point but you still have to pay attention to where the ball is when it starts to hook. Just because you it your target at the dots or the arrows do you really believe that the ball is in the exact same spot 43 ft. down the lane every time? it's not just about being accurate at the arrows or whatever you use you have to be accurate down the lane too. THS blends that out some so you don't have to be as accurate down lane as you do on a sport pattern but how often is it that you leave a weak 10 and think your lines burnt and in reality you missed down lane the ball went 3 boards farther right and that's what caused the problem.

[Tony]

What you will find as you continue to improve your release is not that you go through your balls faster (unless your being stubborn and trying to stay in the same spot) but that your game changes and you start to play more right to left instead of straight down the lane. You will also find a new use for those solid balls as you will need equipment the reads the oil in the correct spot on the lane once you start actually using the oil.

I wasn't referring to targeting the break point but you still have to pay attention to where the ball is when it starts to hook. Just because you it your target at the dots or the arrows do you really believe that the ball is in the exact same spot 43 ft. down the lane every time? it's not just about being accurate at the arrows or whatever you use you have to be accurate down the lane too. THS blends that out some so you don't have to be as accurate down lane as you do on a sport pattern but how often is it that you leave a weak 10 and think your lines burnt and in reality you missed down lane the ball went 3 boards farther right and that's what caused the problem.

As I talk with more of the 200 plus average bowlers I find that the majority of them are playing a line, as opposed to a spot. I bowled Friday and while I was hitting my spot and adjusting my feet, I was missing the pocket. One of the guys watching down lane noted that that where the ball finished skidding and started to roll differed considerable shot to shot even though I was hitting my mark. I discovered the problem in this case was a difference in follow through but the lesson I learned is that even if I am not targeting the break point I need to watch where the ball transitions to understand what is happening. I also believe that in my case learning to target the line instead of only a spot is the key to pushing my game to the next level

[Aslan]

Monday League: long/wide THS, synthetics, plays like a longer sport (48-51ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4.

456 Series: 134-151-171

Lowest score since the end of April....well played.

Game 1 sucked hard. Game 2 sucked in a slightly more malleable way...like how hard a soft metal or maybe like a pine board would suck. And then Game 3 was more like an uneven haircut that you just decide to live with because you don't want to complain.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.40 pins
Strikes: 26% (1 double and 6 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 5-pin (2x each)
Never left a single 3-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 38% (5/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4 (2x).

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 152.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 162.00.

Wednesday I get to pretend I'm a good bowler. Mondays I get reminded that I'm not. Although it does sting more when I bowl average on Wednesday, then get a bowling lesson on Sunday from one of the most renowned coaches in the World, things seem to be going great...then Monday...is Monday.

Why? What ball? What line? What pattern? Execution? Timing? Bah Humbug. Iceman is right. There's those that got the gift and those that don't. Maybe if I accept that I might be able to bowl in a league where we just all drink and play cards and bowling is something we barely pay attention to where the highlight of the season is the one week I win 50/50. YAY!!!!!! (imagine a bunch of party and celebration emoticons...)

[Timmyb]

As I talk with more of the 200 plus average bowlers I find that the majority of them are playing a line, as opposed to a spot. I bowled Friday and while I was hitting my spot and adjusting my feet, I was missing the pocket. One of the guys watching down lane noted that that where the ball finished skidding and started to roll differed considerable shot to shot even though I was hitting my mark. I discovered the problem in this case was a difference in follow through but the lesson I learned is that even if I am not targeting the break point I need to watch where the ball transitions to understand what is happening. I also believe that in my case learning to target the line instead of only a spot is the key to pushing my game to the next level

I'm 200+, and have, for the better part of the past 15 years (subtract the 6 I was out) played the break point. I've never used arrows in my life. I line myself up with dots, and my sole purpose after that is to hit that spot down the lane. That gets determined in practice, although the house I bowl at is pretty consistent. To me, it's been the most forgiving shot I've ever used. You just need to be careful to stay ahead of transitions.

[Tony]

I'm 200+, and have, for the better part of the past 15 years (subtract the 6 I was out) played the break point. I've never used arrows in my life. I line myself up with dots, and my sole purpose after that is to hit that spot down the lane. That gets determined in practice, although the house I bowl at is pretty consistent. To me, it's been the most forgiving shot I've ever used. You just need to be careful to stay ahead of transitions.

Thanks for the input, I started another thread ( can't hijack a fellows bowling scores ! ) and am getting some very informative responses.

[NewToBowling]

I used to aim at the arrows. Not anymore. I aim down lane mostly at break point.

And for spares I did the same. Used to aim at arrows but now just look at the pins.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Easy THS, heavy oil volume in the middle, (38-42ft) length, very dry outside.

Warmed up a couple games before hand. First game I didn't keep track of the score but when I glanced up at the monitor I think it was in the 190s.

Practice Game #2: 242 Front seven and then 3 bad shots to end things. But it definitely boosted the confidence pre-league play.

626 Series: 202-235-189

Game 1 I balled down from the Lethal Revolver to the Dark Encounter...just thought the lanes were transitioning a bit too much in practice...and figured I'd rather make the move a little early than a little late. Should have balled down to the Asylum after a flush hits in the 7th and 8th frame left a 10-pin and 7-pin (respectively)...but lucked out in the 9th and struck Brooklyn...my only 'bad' strike of the night. Hate to switch balls in the 10th, but it was overdue.

Game 2 was decent through 7 frames; a couple bad shots. Then I left a single 10-pin in the 8th (and missed it, of course) on a flush hit so again I decided to ball down in the 10th to the Melee Jab and struck out.

Game 3 I stuck with the Melee Jab the entire game...but it's a tricky ball to figure out. Some shots were so perfect it was scary...other shots seemed decent but either over or under reacted. I ended up moving inside about 3 with my eyes and 4 with my feet...but it was just weird that I had to move like that on the right lane...but didn't make one lateral move on the left lane until mid-late 3rd game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.11 pins
Strikes: 57% (2 4-baggers, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Only left the following single pins: 3-pin, 7-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1).

Average over 3 games: 208.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 216.33.

And the roller coaster continues. The team took 3 of 4 points but should have taken all 4 against a very weak team. Didn't make any money but got winnings from last weeks final poker hand and took 2nd place in one of my 3 brackets so what would have cost $50 (Wednesday League + drink + side pot + brackets + skins) only cost me $30 after tips. My 235 scratch wasn't enough to take side pot ...I think the guy that won it bowled a 249 scratch. Lots of above average bowlers in that league so side pots are difficult to win as is skins (being the only person to strike out in the 10th).

And hey, it took me 20 months to go from averaging 121 to rolling a 600 series...I've rolled 12 since in the last 8 months...so thats not terrible.

Might need to figure out why my last game score is so bad. Thats 3 straight weeks where the 3rd game was the weakest. It'd make sense if I had a small arsenal to work with and too much revs/not enough speed....and maybe thats it...maybe I tired from the warm-up and my speed dipped a bit. I didn't drink, so it can't be that. And I gotta figure out why spare shooting is so good during lessons and then more of a liability on league night. I can't expect to ever sniff 700 if I miss 2/3 of my 10-pnis.

[RobLV1]

"Game 2 was decent through 7 frames; a couple bad shots. Then I left a single 10-pin in the 8th (and missed it, of course) on a flush hit so again I decided to ball down in the 10th to the Melee Jab and struck out.

Game 3 I stuck with the Melee Jab the entire game...but it's a tricky ball to figure out. Some shots were so perfect it was scary...other shots seemed decent but either over or under reacted. I ended up moving inside about 3 with my eyes and 4 with my feet...but it was just weird that I had to move like that on the right lane...but didn't make one lateral move on the left lane until mid-late 3rd game."

Not wierd at all! Just as two lanes next to each other are rarely the same, two lanes next to each other often transition totally differently. It's not unusual for the lane that is tighter at the beginning of the set to be the lane that is hooking the most by the end of the night. This often happens very suddenly, when the lane "explodes." Your problem figuring out the Jab stems from the fact that you are still letting your preconceptions about cover materials cloud your thinking. The Jab has a low RG of 2.487. The Lethal Revolver has a low RG of 2.52. While the Lethal revolver has a Diff. of 2.54 vs. 2.50 for the Jab, that small difference will only have a noticable effect for bowlers with very high rev rates (not you). When you change to the Jab, you are not "balling down," you are changing how the ball reacts because of the polished surface (more over/under if you have not made the correct lateral moves). Funny how when I "ball down," it's from the Jab, not to the Jab!

[NewToBowling]

Interesting observation on core vs coverstock as it pertains to lower rev players. It would make sense that RG has less of an effect on lower rev players than the coverstock.

[Amyers]

Interesting observation on core vs coverstock as it pertains to lower rev players. It would make sense that RG has less of an effect on lower rev players than the coverstock.

Rob was referring to the differential having less effect on low rev players not Rg

[Aslan]

Funny how when I "ball down," it's from the Jab, not to the Jab!

Mark Baker made similar comments when he took a look at my arsenal. I was thinking my gap was not having enough strong balls at the top and that in heavier conditions or longer/wider conditions...it makes it tough. His take was that I needed weaker balls in the arsenal because he looked at the Asylum and Jab and had the same evaluation....that those are strong balls to have as #3 and #4 in the progression.

Part of me thinks that as I get better and my release more consistent, I'll be able to take more advantage of balls like the Jab. I'm like the 3rd person to say this...so it seems to be a trend....but the Jab is probably the most effective ball in my bag....and it's not even a close contest. But it is also the least forgiving ball in my bag because slight axis tilt variations or flatter than average release....and that ball is going to miss the headpin right or go through the nose. And I've seen that with most pearls I've tried to throw.

On the flipside...I think I do well with solids because with less axis tilt/revs...it's more forgiving. I might hit light and leave a corner-pin...but the ball usually dies before going through the nose or Brooklyn. Unfortunately, I'm not good enough at seeing the ball burn out...so I would just keep throwing it over and over trying to fix my release/rpms/speed...when I really just needed to ball down. I'm getting better at that, but it's a slow process.

But my revs must be improving...I'm overdue for a video posting...because last night the speed was between 16.9 and 17.7 mph at the pins...and wasn't having any trouble getting into the pocket. That's encouraging because I really hate to lose the power/speed advantage. As you know, the speed ain't gonna last forever. 10-15 years from now, probably bowling on a reconstructed knee of some kind (hoping for bionic)....I have no delusions that I'll still be able to throw at this speed. But I'd like to take advantage of it as long as I can.

[Aslan]

And I DID offer the Jab to that guy I bowled against last week. I told him about Rob's suggestions but I think he's pretty cash strapped right now so even the Jab on sale on bowlingball.com for $109....might still be a stretch for him...especially with the holidays and what not. I told him he could have the Jab at the end of the season and he seemed pretty happy about that.

A part of me still feels like I should give it to him now though. If it wasn't hitting so damn well...it would be an easier choice. And he didn't seem at all disappointed that he would have to wait a few months. Actually, I would like to keep it till September when I switch arsenals...but I figured end of this season was a good compromise. And this way I won't regret giving it to him when he goes to sweeps and beats me with it. :mad:

[Aslan]

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament:

Still trying to get some practice at the house I can't seem to figure out...

531 Series: 191-173-167

Game 1 was okay; a couple opens. Game 2 was 2 strikes and a split away from an all spare game. Just couldn't figure things out. Game 3 I used the Melee Jab but it was erratic as usual and the lanes started to transition rather quickly in Game 3.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 31% (1 turkey, 1 double, and 5 singles)
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (10/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5-8 bucket and 6-7-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3).

Average over 3 games: 177.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 180.33.

Statistically very similar to league nights, previous weekly tournaments, and practices (see below):

562, 567, 560, 530, 512, 447, 568, 475, 538, 585, 539, 534, 534, 518, 497, 439, 525, 502, 547, 456, 531

Just seems like I'm gonna bowl 530-559 every night. If I get a decent pair, maybe I get in the upper 500s. If I have some bad breaks, splits, approach issues, thumb issues....then I'm looking at the upper 400s.

It just seems like a very wide and very long pattern with maybe a lighter oil or a lighter volume. So, it plays long/heavy...but transitions quickly.

Spare shooting was above average. Going to have to continue working on things. Kinda disappointed that my ability to score high is restricted to a certain center. And the annual BVL tournament is at this center in January...and now I'll be in Division A so no more taking advantage of a < 170 average. Now I'm in the 171-190 division.

Oh well. Maybe I'll try a slower speed on Monday and see if that changes anything.

[Aslan]

Monday League: long/wide THS, synthetics, plays like a longer sport (48-51ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4.

501 Series: 175-179-147

Damn. I just realized compared to last week, I was pretty good. That's kinda MORE depressing now that I think about it.

Game 1 and Game 2 were very similar. Not a lot of striking...one open each game on a single-pin and one open each game on some stupid multi-pin leave like the 1-2-4-7 or 1-5-8-9. Game 3 I was drunk. I can't average in the 170s because it depresses me too much and then by the 3rd game I'm drunk.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.33 pins
Strikes: 33% (3 doubles and 5 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin and 5-pin (2x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 57% (8/14)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 and 1-2-8 (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 167.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 173.33.

Stupid game. I brought two ladies back to my apartment though...granted nothing happened. But still.

Spent the WHOLE night playing outside the first arrow. Probably 1-4 boards. I just couldn't find a shot inside. And that's miserable. The closer you have to ride that edge, the more mentally exhausting it is. Only channeled a first shot once, but it was coming off a spare. : (

Used the Lethal Revolver Game 1 and most of Game 2. I didn't "want" to...but that pattern was playing so long and wide...and with a non-existent breakpoint...it didn't seem like a "losing energy" reason to why I was hitting so weak. I watched some of the other players and the ones that were having success had much stronger equipment and lower ball speeds. Maybe I gotta "cage the beast" a bit in this house because 16-17mph just isn't working.

I switched to the Dark Encounter, that I hand polished over the weekend to test Amyer's theory...and it felt good and seemed to work well...but by the time I was finding my groove, the alcohol was setting in. $2 shots every time there was a touchdown and the score must have been like 100-90 or something.

Embarassing. AND...despite the girl teammates being wasted...no hanky panky...which BEGS the question...."How drunk does a girl have to be to sleep with Aslan?!?" And apparently our third teammate isn't there AGAIN...at first the reason was he was still sick...but later it came out that he's in jail. Drugs, resisting arrest, etc... So lets see...I got passed over for the first guy. He was tall and had nice eyes and was a very good bowler...younger...I get it. But THEN...I get passed over AGAIN....and this time for a guy doing time? I mean, granted it's 15-30 days...still. If it was anyone else's life...it would be hilarious. And the new guy SUCKS at bowling and this stupid league makes men start with a 175 average if they don't have one established. This guy is lucky to score 120.

No hangover this morning. Man, I must have been RIGHT on the edge. All I ate yesterday was half a muffin from 7/11 and 2 cherries from the bar. I figured I'd be yackin or draggin. But...was wide awake and felt awesome at 6:20AM. Crazy.

[Aslan]

And I highlighted the 2-pin and 5-pin because it was exactly the same as last week. That at least gives me a hint that whatever I'm doing wrong...I'm consistently doing it wrong. And as GIJoe never fails to remind us...

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SjlR_nLZWA8/Uin8I9T9NHI/AAAAAAAABCw/LZsdDOQCuGQ/s640/knowingishalfthebattle.png

[bubba809]

I brought two ladies back to my apartment though...granted nothing happened. But still.


I would like to hear more about this. Were they "just friends" or was there an outside shot of Aslan getting lucky? What the hell did you guys do exactly at the Aslan shack? Did they question your pile of undrilled bowling balls? Finally, please tell me you didn't pay for something....


Inquiring minds....

[NewToBowling]

He probably said to them "I'll show you my rack of you show me yours"

[Aslan]

I would like to hear more about this. Were they "just friends" or was there an outside shot of Aslan getting lucky? What the hell did you guys do exactly at the Aslan shack? Did they question your pile of undrilled bowling balls? Finally, please tell me you didn't pay for something....


Inquiring minds....

Bowl1820 has asked that I try to limit my scoring updates to things involving bowling and not as much things involving debouchery. Granted, my life is 75% debouchery...so that really limits me. But to try to keep in line with everyone's "inquiring minds" yet still keep the topic family oriented and bowling related:

- The two female bowlers (unranked on Aslan's Top 20) are my Monday League teammates.
- One is married. One has a boyfriend who is our other teammate but is currently in jail. The second of the two was wearing a shirt bowling that...well, lets just say it was almost as much of a distraction to me as it was to the 70-year old guys on the opposing team that were tripping not just on the foul line...but over their toungues as well.
- The married one got drunk and at some point during Game 2 or Game 3 pulled her shirt up. She was wearing a grey undergarment that I cannot verify was USBC approved.
- Then I tried to get away, because I'm old, was hungry, was drunk, and have a job I need to get up early for. But I forgot my credit card at the bowling alley bar...so I had to go back. They were in the bar doing karaoke...at one point the married one tried to 'expose' the non-married one by pulling her shirt down. Then they were anxious to go back to my place, get high, sober up, and either play video games, Monopoly, or watch a movie.
- We smoked a little, then just sat around talking. I was too afraid to make a move...technically both women are "taken" and I don't want to cause a bowling team disruption by having relations with the teammates woman...especially given he apparently leads a lifestyle that gets you arrested and put in jail.
- They sobered up a little and left to go get food at a fast food taco place. Both made it home safe.
- I was almost sure I'd be hungover...but felt great the next morning. Missed my conference call...but that's okay.
- I have a date tonight with a more "normal" gal I met online.

[Timmyb]

I can now live vicariously through you!

[Tony]

The bringing two girls home from the bowling alley reminds me of another story about a buddy of mine, seems in his younger days (40 ish) he dated a woman about his age and later dated her 20 something year old daughter, upon hearing the story I was a little surprised and thought wow you don't see that too often. Later when I heard more details and discovered he only went out with each one a couple of times , and nothing happened , the story didn't seem quite the same ....

[bubba809]

The only threesome Aslan has been involved in was with Iceman and Mudpuppy.



--Sorry buddy, had to.

[fortheloveofbowling]

It seems this thread almost turned into Aslan's scores of the stud kind. Big missed opportunity there man.

[NewToBowling]

Curious what would be better, 3-some or 300...

[fortheloveofbowling]

Curious what would be better, 3-some or 300...

Sounds like a good poll question.

[Tony]

Isn't the title of this thread, Scores of the non-lady kind ? Oh sorry, there was no scoring involved, carry on ......

I suppose there is some empty thread titled Scores of the lady - kind out there somewhere :)

[Aslan]

Sounds like a good poll question.
Agreed. Although...I give that an 85% chance of being locked after one page.


Curious what would be better, 3-some or 300...
Great question. Given the ball technology and THS conditions...I'm gonna say threesome. It's just statistically more unlikely. But a 300...heck, I'm horrible and I rolled a 300 in practice...so, ya know what they say about blind squirrels...


The only threesome Aslan has been involved in was with Iceman and Mudpuppy.
Lame. You picked the two guys that are dead or lost at sea or in Iceman's case leading some cult somewhere...rather than RobM or MWhite. But regardless of the combo...that was NOT really ever part of the event.

Ironically, in a bowling sense, you could accurately describe my defeat and embarrassing 5th place as taking...something...somewhere...but it's a gross reference and I don't want to even go there...especially with tonight being my "serious league" where I gotta put my game face on and "pretend" that I'm a 200-average bowler.

And I got like 1 hour sleep last night...because last night's date went remarkably better.

[RobLV1]

I'd suggest you knock this crap off, or you'll probably end up banned. Despite your obsession with maintaining this persona that you've created, you do provoke some interesting discussions. I'd hate to see them, and you, disappear.

[Aslan]

I'd suggest you knock this crap off, or you'll probably end up banned. Despite your obsession with maintaining this persona that you've created, you do provoke some interesting discussions. I'd hate to see them, and you, disappear.

Ying and Yang Rob. Sometimes if you want the "good" from an energetic, edgy, entertaining, interesting person...you have to accept the "negatives" of those type of people. I can't promise I won't offend people. I know I HAVE offended people at time...almost always by accident. But thats the price.

The last website (non-bowling related), after 3 years, with me being the main source of entertainment and comedy decided to ban me. I was like Pete Rose accept with a better haircut and a much lesser sin. It happens. At first I was mad...now I'm over it. I didn't lose THEM...they lost ME. They don't deserve me.

So IF...and this is a decent-sized "IF"...the moderator(s) determine I've violated a member agreement, terms of service, or a forum rule...they can let me know and I almost always oblige them and erase something or tone it down. Or they can issue infractions, we can have another banishment poll, or they can just make me "disappear". But like I said, those decisions have consequences.

I tried to pretend to be something I'm not on Bowling Intel just because I wanted to be exposed to the content...and the person running that site made it clear that Aslan wasn't welcome. But that was exhausting. Every time I tried to participate, I had to ask myself a question like, "If I were in my 70s and fairly boring...how would I answer this question and do so in a way that doesn't reveal my true identity?" Exhausting.

But, I'll pick up the slot car off the floor, blow on it (to try to get rid of dust/dirt), and set it back on the track...by posting tonight's scores.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Moderate length (40-42ft), very narrow pattern, very long in the middle and not long at all on the outside.

Warmed up a couple games before hand. Just was throwing the Maxim spare ball to get loose. Shot a 180 and 183 ...better than I thought given I was using my spare ball with very little (if any) down lane movement.

647 Series: 200-197-250

Game 1 had a chopped 1-2-4 in the 2nd frame and a 3-10 split in the 8th...but strung some strikes together to salvage 200. Enough to get me to the next level in 2 of 4 brackets, but the opponents were bowling out of their mind and getting a ton of handicap so we got smoked.

Only open was on a 6-7-10 split in the 7th frame of Game 2. But couldn't run more than 2 strikes together.

Game 3 I left a 10-pin in the 1st frame..then x, x, x, x. Totally pulled a shot big time in the 6th frame and got a 1-5-6-10 which I couldn't convert, then it was x, x, x, x, x, 8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.17 pins
Strikes: 57% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 2 singles)
Spares: 69% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left the 2-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin (2x each)

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4, 6-10, and the 3-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 33% (1/3).

Average over 3 games: 215.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

And the roller coaster continues. Odd that both times I bowled a 250 game or over in this league; I ended up with exactly a 647.

The Dark Encounter looked good in practice...but the Asylum seemed to be hitting better. So I started with the Asylum until mid-Game 2. Used the Jab for the remainder of Game 2 and first frame of Game 3. Used the Loaded Revolver for most of Game 3.

Had to open up (shoulders/hips) more in Game 3 which I wasn't used to....but it was working.

[Timmyb]

Ying and Yang Rob. Sometimes if you want the "good" from an energetic, edgy, entertaining, interesting person...you have to accept the "negatives" of those type of people. I can't promise I won't offend people. I know I HAVE offended people at time...almost always by accident. But thats the price.

The last website (non-bowling related), after 3 years, with me being the main source of entertainment and comedy decided to ban me. I was like Pete Rose accept with a better haircut and a much lesser sin. It happens. At first I was mad...now I'm over it. I didn't lose THEM...they lost ME. They don't deserve me.

So IF...and this is a decent-sized "IF"...the moderator(s) determine I've violated a member agreement, terms of service, or a forum rule...they can let me know and I almost always oblige them and erase something or tone it down. Or they can issue infractions, we can have another banishment poll, or they can just make me "disappear". But like I said, those decisions have consequences.

I tried to pretend to be something I'm not on Bowling Intel just because I wanted to be exposed to the content...and the person running that site made it clear that Aslan wasn't welcome. But that was exhausting. Every time I tried to participate, I had to ask myself a question like, "If I were in my 70s and fairly boring...how would I answer this question and do so in a way that doesn't reveal my true identity?" Exhausting.

But, I'll pick up the slot car off the floor, blow on it (to try to get rid of dust/dirt), and set it back on the track...by posting tonight's scores.

Look at it this way. If it keeps people coming to this forum, then it's fine by me. I came to this place a few months ago to get help because I was finally returning to the game we all love (somedays). It's one of the first forums that has had other discussion besides the main topic that I've seen, and it makes it entertaining. The posts are funny, not terribly off-color, and generally benign. I would hate for someone to get tossed because they feel like livening things up once in a while.

[fortheloveofbowling]

Wednesday League: Moderate length (40-42ft), very narrow pattern, very long in the middle and not long at all on the outside.

Warmed up a couple games before hand. Just was throwing the Maxim spare ball to get loose. Shot a 180 and 183 ...better than I thought given I was using my spare ball with very little (if any) down lane movement.

647 Series: 200-197-250

Game 1 had a chopped 1-2-4 in the 2nd frame and a 3-10 split in the 8th...but strung some strikes together to salvage 200. Enough to get me to the next level in 2 of 4 brackets, but the opponents were bowling out of their mind and getting a ton of handicap so we got smoked.

Only open was on a 6-7-10 split in the 7th frame of Game 2. But couldn't run more than 2 strikes together.

Game 3 I left a 10-pin in the 1st frame..then x, x, x, x. Totally pulled a shot big time in the 6th frame and got a 1-5-6-10 which I couldn't convert, then it was x, x, x, x, x, 8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.17 pins
Strikes: 57% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 2 singles)
Spares: 69% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left the 2-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin (2x each)

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4, 6-10, and the 3-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 33% (1/3).

Average over 3 games: 215.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

And the roller coaster continues. Odd that both times I bowled a 250 game or over in this league; I ended up with exactly a 647.

The Dark Encounter looked good in practice...but the Asylum seemed to be hitting better. So I started with the Asylum until mid-Game 2. Used the Jab for the remainder of Game 2 and first frame of Game 3. Used the Loaded Revolver for most of Game 3.

Had to open up (shoulders/hips) more in Game 3 which I wasn't used to....but it was working.

Nice series.

[Aslan]

Look at it this way. If it keeps people coming to this forum, then it's fine by me. I came to this place a few months ago to get help because I was finally returning to the game we all love (somedays). It's one of the first forums that has had other discussion besides the main topic that I've seen, and it makes it entertaining. The posts are funny, not terribly off-color, and generally benign. I would hate for someone to get tossed because they feel like livening things up once in a while.

Agreed. I respect Rob's opinion and he's not alone by any means. He's just courageous enough and has an existing relationship with me so he comes out and says it rather than hiding and PMing moderators and "gasping" in secret. And while I feel I provide value to the site, there were several members that left to go to BowlingIntel who DID state that one of the reasons was folks like me and (at the time) Iceman that were a bit "too colorful". I recognize that many older members came along late to the "internet scene" so they have a different level of "delicate sensibility". I'm not criticizing nor poking fun, I'm just empathizing and seeing their point of view.

And I HAVE had members (rarely) who have came to me privately via PM to let me know they took something I said badly, etc... 100% of the time that happens I try to accommodate them. But I can't change who I am. Who I am and my energy and my humor are part of the package. So are occasionally needing "tougher skin" when I say something you think is "too colorful". That's reality. That's the internet. If your sensibility is SO delicate...that someone referencing "poo" or a "butt" or using words like "hot" or "sexy"...if that really, really offends you and ruins your week...maybe a more laid back bible study type of environment...maybe a David Thoreau/Unibomber type existence where you remove yourself from modern annoyances...maybe those are better "fits" than the internet. Because like I've said numerous times to our more "offendable" members....if you think this forum is "out of control"...I strongly discourage you from going to Yahoo chat, Xbox Live, any political or new website, etc... I've heard things out of 8-year olds while playing Call of Duty that offended ME...and that's nearly impossible to do.

I urge/strongly suggest that those who are easily offended look at the question of "Are people like Aslan a "good" part of the site or a "bad" part of the site?" like this:

I buy Cable TV. I watch probably <50 different channels. Yet I have available to me...almost 500 channels. I hate QVC. I find it annoying. I can't stand most stuff on MTV and find some of it offensive...like celebrating teen pregnancy. Or the Bravo network with the Housewives of various cities. They used to have a "Queer as Folk" program that offended a lot of non-gays and traditionalists.

But here's the thing...and this is really, really important for internet participation as well as life in general...and if nobody ever listens to me or I get banned or whatever...I hope this is the one thing that sticks with them...I don't HAVE to watch those channels. There's no rule that says I need to watch QVC. Not ONE rule. I can choose to watch what I want and not watch I don't want to watch. Same thing on the internet. I find Glenn Beck offensive...so I don't listen to his radio show. If people are offended by something I say or do or even my very existence...get over it. Because I'm too old to change...and although you may not believe it...there are MUCH WORSE options than me in society!! And what I find MOST entertaining/intriguing about Rob's more to the delicate side in terms of sensitivity....he lives in LAS VEGAS!! I went to the Vegas strip with my daughter to see a show at the Bellagio and the fountains and lights and stuff...you can't make it 40ft down the sidewalk without scantily clad showgirls and rough lookin dudes throwing strip club coupons at ya. The billboards alone practically make me drive off the road. You just can't live in "Sin City" and be easily offended. I don't know how that's possible. I'm not starting an argument....I just find that kinda interesting/funny because I go to Vegas quite a bit...and I always wonder how families with children that live near Vegas keep their kids from seeing some "rather racey" stuff on a daily basis. ???

As to those that are "worried" about my banishment...don't be.
1) Been there, done that. The site voted already and they voted to keep me. If another vote is held today, well, I welcome it because there's virtually no chance the majority votes for banishment. I'm too entertaining and not nearly offensive enough to be voted off.
2) With minor infractions aside, the site has been nothing but supportive of my participation. Even had I lost the vote back then, I think the site would have stepped in to overturn the results.
3) Bowl1820 doesn't want to deal with any of that. As essentially the sole moderator, he has enough "busy work" keeping the site spam-free (which he does a remarkable job of by the way) and providing us with content...the LAST thing he wants is a battle with, arguably, the sites most popular and most present contributor...after already going through that once...it's just a huge annoyance I don't think he wants anything to do with. Not that he won't step in on occasion and lock threads and slap wrists...and I have no beef at all with that...you DO need to keep things under control or they can get out of hand quickly...and it's like being a referee...a very thankless job.

So, Mudpuppy Cliff Notes: Aslan isn't going anywhere, and if he did, the negatives would outweigh the positives. Until that math changes...I can't see a scenario where the site would support such action. Especially when it was recently tried at BowlingIntel and that site last about 18 months because while it had good bowling technical conversations...it was about as fun/interesting as a 3-hour online course on weaving wicker furniture.

[vdubtx]

As to those that are "worried" about my banishment...don't be.
1) Been there, done that. The site voted already and they voted to keep me. If another vote is held today, well, I welcome it because there's virtually no chance the majority votes for banishment. I'm too entertaining and not nearly offensive enough to be voted off.

The "voting", if you even want to call it that, was only open for a few hours.

Given a couple days for "votes" to roll in, who knows what would have happened. :p

[NewToBowling]

If Aslan left this place would get pretty boring and stale

[vdubtx]

If Aslan left this place would get pretty boring and stale

Don't disagree, was being facetious. :cool:

[fortheloveofbowling]

The "voting", if you even want to call it that, was only open for a few hours.

Given a couple days for "votes" to roll in, who knows what would have happened. :p

REVOTE REVOTE!!!! Just kidding. i read somewhere between 18% and 36% of any given Aslan post and it is usually somewhat entertaining.

[Timmyb]

Having spent my entire adult life in machine shops like Harley-Davidson, Falk, and Bucyrus (now Raterpillar), I'm a pretty tough dude to offend. Keep it coming!

[Blacksox1]

Aslan

( X ) delivers
( ) banned

Mudpuppy cliff notes could be posted like this to enable everyone the ease of skipping ahead. :)

[Blacksox1]

647 nice series, 57% strikes, awesome.

[bubba809]

Still don't know what you even did to warrant such a backlash. Talk about some after bowling adventures? Political ramblings? So what. This is what constitutes threats to be banned??

You do realize there are very bad things going on in the world, riiiight?

[Aslan]

Given a couple days for "votes" to roll in, who knows what would have happened. :p

Probably. But remember, even ICEMAN voted that I be allowed to stay...and that was back when he and I were arguing about just shy of everything. I remember (nostalgia) the first time I interacted with Iceman I made some comment that he seemed like he was on drugs. He actually PMd me about how he was offended by that and doesn't use drugs and his physique is completely natural and I need to "tone it down".

I mean, even my ONE forum enemy...DHoff...even HE was going to vote "stay" but right at the last minute changed his vote because I posted something about how he also should have to be subject to a "vote" since it was his trolling that led to the infraction.

But I don't want to give any more time to this. I know Bowl1820 hates it when it gets brought up and I don't want to re-open any old wounds. I am thankful that I'm appreciated here. I think Bowl1820 (even though he isn't my biggest fan) does a great job at moderating the site. And the site has been nothing but gracious and supportive of my participation.

And I definitely don't want Rob to feel ganged up on over this. He calls it like he sees it..at least he's brave enough to speak his mind. Trust me...when that first "vote" happened...even though it was only open for a short time (I thought it was close to 2 days), there were people that voted me off...that I can almost guarantee never said anything openly.

But it's all old business....as Officer Barbrady would say, "nothing to see here".

And to get the train back on the track...scores of the NON-lady kind...

I'm tempted to ask my coach if she will watch me bowl on Monday night one time. I mean, something is obviously very wrong when I spent last season averaging 173 on Tuesdays and 189 on Wednesdays. Now I'm averaging 172 on Mondays and 201 on Wednesdays.

And I hate discounting Wednesday night as being meaningless...because as others have pointed out...it's not like EVERYONE is averaging 201. Obviously I have at least an above average skill level in that league. Now that the league is so much bigger than last season, I don't have much of a shot at sidepots (this week a guy threw a 300-game in Game 2 and my 250 in Game 3 was beat by at least one 279 game. I think Game 1 was only a 267. But with only 9 pins of handicap...my 250 wouldn't have won any of the sidepots.

There's gotta be some way to conquer the Monday center. It's oiled fresh each time...but it's a very old house that takes a lot of abuse because it's open 24 hours. So the lanes play more differently than most houses. But still...with 5 strike balls...and an above average skill set/knowledge base...I shouldn't be struggling in the low 170s. And I'm sure there's a mental/confidence factor added in because even the single-pin spare shooting there is 5-10% lower...and that shouldn't be affected by the lanes nor pattern.

Not sure what I'm doing next season. My original plan was to do two leagues at the harder center (Monday center). Try to get my average back into "reality". But with me possibly moving in 2016, and living a 1.5 minute walk to the center, maybe I should just put myself on the sub list for every night and if someone needs someone...I'm there. But, we'll see. I'm gonna face some opposition from both teams about leaving. The Wednesday team just added me and I'm their best "overall" bowler. The anchor can usually beat me game for game...but my series is usually higher just because his high-rev semi-thumbless style is so hit or miss. And the gals on the Monday team like me so they're going to want me to bowl for them. We'll see.

[Aslan]

Monday League: long/wide THS, synthetics, plays like a longer sport (48-51ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4.

542 Series: 182-193-167

All three games were similar. When I made good shots, I made GOOD shots. When I missed slightly or wasn't perfect...I got punished. This house plays a lot like a USBC pattern. I'm gonna have to ask the center what they are putting down...because this center is stumping me as bad as my old Tuesday center. Started with the Dark Encounter for Game 1. Switched to the Asylum briefly in Game 2, then the Melee Jab...but neither of those were controllable. Game 3 I balled down the Loaded Revolver. It struck well on the left lane but the not the right

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 42% (2 turkeys and 8 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 6-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4-10 (2x).

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 180.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 187.33.

An improved night in terms of strike rate. And that helps a lot. Keeps the confidence high, etc... But I felt like a thumbless bowler because when I "missed"; I was punished severely for it. Two 1-2-4-10s, a 5-7 split, and a 1-2-8-10. And I got lucky...a couple brooklyn strikes.

It's just frustrating because it shouldn't be this difficult. I should be able to miss a board right and not get punished by a 2-pin or 5-pin still standing.

Might be an arsenal issue. Watching other players...they seem to have rather strong pearls, lower speeds, and play more inside...for the most part. It may be that I just don't have a strong enough Pearl. The Dark Encounter with some polish on it does "okay". The Melee Jab is newer, stronger, and a Pearl and I often have good luck with that...but it's not what I'd call a "strong" Pearl like those in the Mastermind series. I'm tempted to drill up my Defiant Edge. It's a Pearl with a strong core. If it doesn't work, I could always take some surface off the Bullet Train and add some polish to it and maybe thats as good or better than the polished Dark Encounter option. But, the Defiant Edge is 16lbs...and I hate to switch weights mid-season....especially with things going so well on Wednesdays.

Close night. Two of our players didn't show up...I'm SO done with this team...and Game 2 we tied. Game 3 they won by a point. It's hard to blame myself since we were -20 pins all night due to absent bowlers, our 3rd bowler was bowling in the 80-100 range, and their anchor was solid. I almost felt bad for their anchor because he left a 6-7 split on ball #2 in the 10th...just needed to hit one of the two pins to get the point...he guttered it. :eek:

It's just tiring on Mondays. The team is a mess of mostly bowlers that just show up to drink. The other bowler was almost late which would have forfeited at least two points. And when she was there...the #3 bowler on the other team is the dad of her ex-boyfriend (our ex-#3 bowler)...so she was avoiding him all night by sitting in the bar....of course then we had to sit around and wait for her to come back...which was driving the opposing team nuts and I'm sure they said something to the league person. I think I'm just gonna sub next season...try to sub 3 nights a weeK if I can. If I DO join a league or two...it's not gonna be this team. This is just ridiculous. And I'm tired of the opponents looking at me either feeling bad for me that I have to deal with them or looking at me like I'm part of the problem. I show up every week, on time....granted, I live 1.5 minutes walk...but still.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: low-oil synthetics

Had a lesson at 3:00PM. Did some running around and then came back for leagues at 6:45. Did something to my elbow...probably during the lesson or maybe getting the balls in and out of the car.

548 Series: 181-196-171

Started out good in Game 1 by picking up a 4-9 split. Ran some strikes together...but couldn't make a spare to save my life the rest of the way.

Game 2 I chopped a 3-6-9-10 in the first frame and then was clean to finish...but couldn't run many strikes together. Struggled on the right lane in Game 1 only striking twice; then only struck once on that lane in Game 2.

Game 3 was more of the same, but I had a few opens and that cost me all three brackets.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 43% (1 4-bagger, 2 doubles, and 6 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin (3x)
Also left the 6-pin (2x) and 10-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (3/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-8 (2x)

Splits: 33% (1/3).

Average over 3 games: 182.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 189.33.

Ughhh. Used the Asylum all night and just couldn't get a good read of the lanes. The lesson went well...and I didn't incorporate any new stuff into my game...just didn't have it tonight. Won $13 in one of the poker games...thats something.

[Aslan]

Monday League: long/wide THS, synthetics, plays like a longer sport (48-51ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4.

504 Series: 147-199-158

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.69 pins
Strikes: 25% (1 4-bagger and 4 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 6-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 4-6 split (3x).

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 3 games: 168.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 179.33.

Another Monday. Another disappointment.

Tried a lower speed. Started with the Dark Encounter but quickly went with the Asylum for the first 1.5 games...then the Melee Jab the rest of the way.

I've never really messed with my speed...but at my last lesson my coach helped me with the footwork. Not sure if it messed with my timing a bit or not so much. Struggled with spine tilt though. Can't complain too much about the spare shooting. Not happy that I missed both 7-pins, but I never really missed a multi-pin leave that wasn't a split other than the 1-5-7 which may have well been a split.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Easier THS.

536 Series: 128-205-203

Just couldn't seem to do anything in Game 1. The Asylum was just not working. I just can't seem to find a good line to play where the Asylum is effective...not sure why. Switched to the Melee Jab in the 10th.

Game 2 I used the Melee Jab through the first several frames...but could never really find a decent line. Switched to the Loaded Revolver late and seemed to find a decent line. A chopped 2-4-8 in the first frame was the only open.

Game 3 I had an additional open frame but ran more strikes together.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 45% (2 turkeys, 1 double, and 7 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 6-pin (1x) and 3-pin (3x).

Multiple Pin spares: 12% (1/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 5-7 split (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 178.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 185.00.

First game under 145 on the season. Good times. Might have dropped my average a couple pins. Probably just form and footwork and release inconsistencies. And my teammates noticed my speed was high...17-17.8 at the pins. I relaxed a little more after that and got back into the high 15s to high 16s (mph).

[RobLV1]

One obvious question: when you are bowling a 128 game, why on Earth would you wait until the 10th frame to switch balls? My guess is that you waited because you thought you were throwing bad shots. As I have tried to get across to you on several occasions, you can assess your ball reaction on bad shots as well as good shots, particularly on an easy THS. With a 128 result, my guess is that your initial ball reaction was just bad. If you wait for perfect shots to adjust, then you have to throw perfect shots to score, and on an easy THS, that goes against the intent of the oil pattern and ends up in 120 games.

[Timmyb]

PinPal Stats:



What is PinPal? Is that some kind of app?

[Davidjr113]

Rob

That post suggests an idea for an article by you. We almost always read not to make adjustments off bad shots. This is first time I read of learning much, if anything, off bad shots

Dave

[bowl1820]

Rob

That post suggests an idea for an article by you. We almost always read not to make adjustments off bad shots. This is first time I read of learning much, if anything, off bad shots

Dave

The first time you read that? you need to look through some of the old threads. The concept has been a bit hard for some to grasp, so has been discussed before.

See:
http://www.bowlingboards.com/threads/18853-In-League-Play-When-Do-You-Change-To-Another-Ball

and

http://www.bowlingboards.com/threads/19073-Interesting-video-about-ball-motion-and-balling-up-and-down

[NYMIKE]

PinPal Stats:



What is PinPal? Is that some kind of app?

Yes, it's only $8 they have it for iphone and droid

[RobLV1]

Rob

That post suggests an idea for an article by you. We almost always read not to make adjustments off bad shots. This is first time I read of learning much, if anything, off bad shots

Dave

Funny that you should mention that, as right after I posted it, I started thinking about adapting it for an article. If you think about it, if you miss right (right handed) and the ball comes back, you learned something. If you miss left and the ball doesn't hold, you learned something. If you dropped it (set it short) and it strikes you learned something. The only time you don't learn something is when you turn your back in disgust and stop watching the ball.

[Timmyb]

Yes, it's only $8 they have it for iphone and droid


Easy to use? I'm a bit of an idiot when it comes to technology.

[Davidjr113]

[QUOTE=bowl1820;137687]The first time you read that? you need to look through some of the old threads. The concept has been a bit hard for some to grasp, so has been discussed before.

Thanks for the links bowl1820, I am always impressed how you somehow can recall & find just about anything on all these different forums, whatever system you use it must be something

[Aslan]

Friday Holiday Practice: Home Center (Mon. League); medium-oil synthetics, seems like a longer pattern with a bit more length on the outside.

My elbow is still sore...but after an abysmal week I figured I'd hit the lanes and try to figure something out.

160-167-193-177

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.68 pins
Strikes: 34% (4 doubles and 6 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 64% (11/17)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-8 and 6-10 (3x each)

Splits: 50% (1/2).

Average over 4 games: 174.25.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 184.50.

Mainly just working on my slower speed footwork.

I noticed that much of my shot to shot variation has to do with my release. If I don't get low enough and/or stay under the ball...I end up with a flat release and miss right. Lots of 1-2 combinations this afternoon. : (

It looks like in this house, it's going to be quite a challenge. A miss of more than two boards either way and you're toast. If you get your speed up above 17mph....toast. And if you release flat...you're either going to leave a 1-2 combination or a flat corner-pin.

No excuse for the bad spare shooting though. Just don't have much confidence in this house and it shows in the spare game.

[Aslan]

Funny that you should mention that, as right after I posted it, I started thinking about adapting it for an article. If you think about it, if you miss right (right handed) and the ball comes back, you learned something. If you miss left and the ball doesn't hold, you learned something. If you dropped it (set it short) and it strikes you learned something. The only time you don't learn something is when you turn your back in disgust and stop watching the ball.

I'll disagree a bit with that statement.

As I mentioned before in a different thread or maybe before in this one...if you miss right or hit light...it could be the result of about 10-15 different things that have NOTHING to do with the ball. For ME...those are:

1) Is my speed too high (17-20mph versus 14-17mph)?
2) Am I "trying" to hook the ball versus letting it happen on it's own?
3) Is my hand position too much behind the ball (reducing axis tilt)?
4) Am I not bending my knee enough and releasing my fingers and thumb at the same time?
5) Am I raising up (slide knee) causing the same result as #4 above?
6) Am I letting the ball carry me downward on the second step versus standing tall?
7) Was my final stance balanced or unbalanced?

So if an low level or average (at best) bowler like myself misses LEFT...then yes, it could be speed, it could be too strong of a ball, it could be a pulled shot, or I may need to make a 1-1, 1-2, or 2-3 move laterally left to open up my angle. BUT IF I MISS RIGHT...or hit flat...or watch the ball exit the pin deck right of center (9-pin)....it could be SO many things in addition to ball choice.

During that 128 game...nothing was working. The Dark Encounter looked good in practice and I switched in the 3rd frame to the Asylum because the D. Encounter just didn't seem right after one shot on each lane. But the Asylum is a weird ball. It rarely works. And it rarely is a simple progression. Depending on lane conditions...I often have to open up my line 1-3 left when I go from the D.E. to the Asylum. But the other ongoing problem is the Asylum seems to hit light.

So in that game;
Frame 1 and 2: D. Encounter
Frame 3 and 4: Line wrong, hitting left.
Frame 5 and 6: Line adjustment, hitting right/light.
Frames 7 and 9 were strikes, but frame 8 was a flat 10-pin. So I switched to the Melee Jab in the 10th because is seemed like the Asylum was hitting dead. I struck twice...and hit pocket all 3 shots on those lines...but they were weak strikes and a flat 10...indicative of it being a higher likelihood it was a ball issue.

As Bowl1820 eluded to; we have had this conversation many, many times and while we all have slightly different beliefs on this topic...usually the argument ends with both parties being unable to define what is a "non-perfect" shot versus a "good enough to adjust off of" shot. So, if I were looking for an article topic...it would be a basic description on when a shot is "good enough". Obviously we can't wait for a Sean Rash type of shot to make an adjustment. Thats one side of the spectrum. However, we also can't just spray and pray and start making moves and ball changes willy nilly.

An example;

A bowler is standing center and aiming second arrow. He/She doesn't trust the line and intentionally misses left with a good release. The ball hits pocket and strikes. On the next shot on that lane, the bowler executes a very good shot, hitting the original target, but with 1mph too much speed...and the ball never makes it back to the pocket.

My opinion on that is:
1) The first shot is meaningless because you missed your target by two boards. Now...maybe you think about changing your target though.
2) The second shot is meaningless because you threw it too hard with too much speed...so maybe that IS a good line and good ball choice...but not at 17-19mph.

Now, thats just two shots over 4 frames. And I certainly don't want to re-ignite the "learning from others" discussion because as we discussed elsewhere...for lower level bowlers...your team is rarely even at an adequate level to read anything of value. Even on my "good" team...two of the guys are thumbless/high rev bowlers, one is a 17-19mph speed dominant straight ball thrower, and the other is a female with a flat back-up release that averages around 115. My only hope on most nights is that the OTHER team has a 14-19mph right-hander with a stroker/tweener release that I can watch.

[Aslan]

But the other ongoing problem is the Asylum seems to hit light.


Data:
Strike Rate (%):
Loaded Revolver: 46%
Lethal Revolver: 41%
Melee Jab: 38%
Dark Encounter: 37%
Asylum: 31%

Thats how I would have guessed it with one exception; the Loaded Revolver. I haven't noticed it hitting that hard...but it's not a ball I use very often and usually by the time I do...the lanes are pretty broken in so I'm usually getting decent bounce off the break point.

And before Amyers gets riled up...YES....I think the Asylum is just drilled weak. I KNOW it's a good ball...I mean some kid rolled a 900-game with it for crying out loud. It's just a ball I'm struggling to fit into my game right now. But...it was FREE...so even if it hits like a piece of popcorn...it didn't cost me anything. : /

[RobLV1]

You can disagree with me all you like, but just realize that the reason that you are disagreeing is because, as usual, you are over-thinking it to the nth degree! Of course you can do a zillion things wrong on every shot, but that doesn't mean that you can't learn something on every single one of them. My point is that if you learn to watch every shot, without judgement, it should not take nine frames to make a ball change. Your statement that "The Asylum is a wierd ball. It rarely works," suggests to me that the judgement has already been made. If you really believe that about the ball, get the damn thing out of your bag and at least give your back a rest... with that attitude it's useless to you anyway!

[bowl1820]

You can disagree with me all you like, but just realize that the reason that you are disagreeing is because, as usual, you are over-thinking it to the nth degree!

Rob something that I think goes along with this is, The "My favorite line/ball" syndrome a lot of bowlers have.

Their using their favorite ball, on their favorite line, it's not working like it always did before. But they can't change nothing until they roll that "Just right" shot, using that ball and/or line and it doesn't work. Then they can say okay I guess I have make a change now, of course by that time it's 9th or 10th frame.

I know it happens, I've seen it and use to do it myself (Sometimes I still do it, I get over thinking it and then have to stop myself).

If your rolling your favorite line/ball and it's not working, then happen to say leak the ball out and it gets a strike. You try rolling the ball out there deliberately, don't just say that was luck and go back to what you know is not working.

[mc_runner]

I do that sometimes too. The most annoying part is afterwards when it's clear as day what I "should" have done early on but in the heat of the moment it's clear as mud. In other words, stop overthinking and start making calls based on what you're seeing.

[RobLV1]

Rob something that I think goes along with this is, The "My favorite line/ball" syndrome a lot of bowlers have.

Their using their favorite ball, on their favorite line, it's not working like it always did before. But they can't change nothing until they roll that "Just right" shot, using that ball and/or line and it doesn't work. Then they can say okay I guess I have make a change now, of course by that time it's 9th or 10th frame.

I know it happens, I've seen it and use to do it myself (Sometimes I still do it, I get over thinking it and then have to stop myself).

If your rolling your favorite line/ball and it's not working, then happen to say leak the ball out and it gets a strike. You try rolling the ball out there deliberately, don't just say that was luck and go back to what you know is not working.

This morning I practiced with a couple of friends of mine with whom I had not bowled in several months. They are bowling in a league at a center where I have not bowled in at least three or four years, so they wanted to practice there. They are all struggling like mad at this center! After about five frames, it became obvious to me that unlike some of the easier centers in town, this place does not have miss room in both directions, consequently bowlers have to consciously decide on a ball that will recover from misses right (more surface), or hold on misses left (less surface). In the cases of both of these guys, their misses tend to be right, so I suggested adding more surface to their bowling balls. One of them listened, tentatively, and will probably try it in their next league outing. The other one just kept going back to, I'm just not releasing it right today. I tried pointing out that anyone can strike with a perfectly thrown ball, but when you don't have the right ball in your hand, you need to perfect... when you do have the right ball in your hand, in this case one with more surface, you don't. The sad thing is that I know he will not listen, AND will continue to blame the lanes for his inability to score there.

[Amyers]

You can disagree with me all you like, but just realize that the reason that you are disagreeing is because, as usual, you are over-thinking it to the nth degree! Of course you can do a zillion things wrong on every shot, but that doesn't mean that you can't learn something on every single one of them. My point is that if you learn to watch every shot, without judgement, it should not take nine frames to make a ball change. Your statement that "The Asylum is a wierd ball. It rarely works," suggests to me that the judgement has already been made. If you really believe that about the ball, get the damn thing out of your bag and at least give your back a rest... with that attitude it's useless to you anyway!

I agree with Rob here. This is one of the problems with the bring in the whole arsenal at once thing. What to do when one of your choices was just wrong? I believe the ball is setup wrong for you and probably never gets into much of a roll. You've got data that backs up your belief the ball isn't working now what are you going to do?

My first suggestion would be to try and add surface change it to 2k. Depending on how much longer you plan to keep this arsenal I might consider having it re-drilled but I doubt I would waste the money on it. Try changing the surface if that doesn't work pitch it and buy something else that does fill a hole in your arsenal. The Asylum was a very good ball for me but every bowler is different and I think with your higher speed lower rev delivery trying a weaker layout on a ball just wasn't a good idea. Live, Learn, and Move On.

[Aslan]

My slight disagreement with Rob is just that he still has this concept that a below average to average bowler can approach league night with absolutely zero preconceptions...and that if something isn't working...it's likely based on the bowler using a preconceived line or preconceived ball choice.

I would contend that at the lower-mid level bowler range...the ball is probably the least likely culprit. I think most pro shop owners and even ball reps would agree that while they love customers coming in and trying to improve their game by adding the next best, greatest, most awesomest thing/ball....98% of the time a new ball isn't going to matter. If your timing sucks, you fall off your shot, you can't bend your knee, and you can't hit your target (or any combination of those)...you can throw a house ball. The ball doesn't matter.

And, back to the point of pre-conception, I would contend that a bowler MUST have some idea of how they are going to approach the lanes...because there simply isn't enough time to randomize everything. And 99.999% of bowlers...have EXTREME preconceptions...like they only have one ball...they only throw at 2nd arrow...they have one speed. Some bowlers have arsenals but leave certain balls at home on certain nights. That is also a preconception/preconceived idea.

But where Rob is right...and this is why I can't say I've "given up" on the Asylum...is if I was absolutely sure that my technique was top notch and my execution top notch...and I thus knew it was just that ball wasn't any good...absolutely....I'd love to leave one of the 6 balls at home...not have to take the shoulder bag with me...absolutely! But at this point...I'm not confident my ability is good enough...because if it was...I could throw the worst equipment on the market and still average 170.

[RobLV1]

You just need to believe that you're a good bowler. I know it, but the problem is that you won't believe it!

[Aslan]

And that's why I rarely post in the "Which ball should I get" threads. Because unless it's VDub asking...and he likely wouldn't...it doesn't matter. All people do is just throw out their favorite brand or a ball they saw someone throwing that looked cool or performed well...but it doesn't matter. Odds are the bowler asking the question is completely lacking the skill set to truly benefit from the technology.

Now, high level tournament players...and those that SHOULD be (VDubb)...absolutely. If you can execute near perfect shots...and you see signs in the ball's path through the pins isn't optimal...then a different ball MUST be one of your options. But I'm starting to revert back to my old 2013 stance on arsenals...that if you don't average 190+ on a THS...just bring a strike ball and a spare ball and save yourself the aggravation and $$. Learn to bowl...THEN learn ball technology. Take it from someone that did it in the reverse order. :(

My next "arsenal" (750 games from now) is likely going to be three strike balls and a spare ball. And one of the strike balls would just be the Bullet Train coming out of retirement. I'm not drilling up 4 new strike balls for Arsenal #3. I'm just not talented enough to benefit from that and it makes me think about stuff I shouldn't be thinking about rather than focusing on execution and technique.

[Aslan]

You just need to believe that you're a good bowler. I know it, but the problem is that you won't believe it!

I appreciate the confidence and encouragement...I really do...but I rolled a 128 last Wednesday, I'm missing 30% of my single pins, and my pocket % is nowhere near what it should be. And many times...as much knowledge as I have jammed in my gigantic cranium...I'm completely LOST on the lanes.

I'll be out in Vegas the week of February 6th-11th. Let me know when/where some of the better leagues are bowling and maybe in the evening I'll come out and just watch some of the "actually good" bowlers. I know Vegas has some pretty competitive and high level leagues. I looked on some of the websites to see if any tournaments were going on during that week but it looks like the ABT Nationals will be over then and the So. Nevada USBC championships are the weekend after. I can't enter anything...not with my fictitious 200 average weighing me down...but I'll have some free time and watching old guys bowl is WAY cheaper than Cirque de Solei and monumentally cheaper than the strip clubs.

Other than that...probably get some practice in...probably at Gold Coast since I think that's where both my leagues are sweeping in March...and it's the closest to the Rio where I'm staying.

[Amyers]

And that's why I rarely post in the "Which ball should I get" threads. Because unless it's VDub asking...and he likely wouldn't...it doesn't matter. All people do is just throw out their favorite brand or a ball they saw someone throwing that looked cool or performed well...but it doesn't matter. Odds are the bowler asking the question is completely lacking the skill set to truly benefit from the technology.

Now, high level tournament players...and those that SHOULD be (VDubb)...absolutely. If you can execute near perfect shots...and you see signs in the ball's path through the pins isn't optimal...then a different ball MUST be one of your options. But I'm starting to revert back to my old 2013 stance on arsenals...that if you don't average 190+ on a THS...just bring a strike ball and a spare ball and save yourself the aggravation and $$. Learn to bowl...THEN learn ball technology. Take it from someone that did it in the reverse order. :(

My next "arsenal" (750 games from now) is likely going to be three strike balls and a spare ball. And one of the strike balls would just be the Bullet Train coming out of retirement. I'm not drilling up 4 new strike balls for Arsenal #3. I'm just not talented enough to benefit from that and it makes me think about stuff I shouldn't be thinking about rather than focusing on execution and technique.

I can't say I disagree with you here completely 5-6 strike balls are more than the average 170-190 bowler needs, most would suffice easily with 2 and a spare ball. You or I aren't your average bowler though we both bowl in multiple houses and on different shots but I will still admit I could easily do it with 3 and a spare ball even though I'm seriously considering drilling up something new. It's why I tend to think of my arsenal more in the terms of oil handling ability than shot shape. The day when you can quit thinking in terms of getting to the pocket and start thinking in terms of how the ball reached the pocket is when your ready for a larger arsenal.

PS your not alone with that 128. I threw a 121 in my travel league last weekend :mad:. Followed it up with a 233 sometimes I'm an idiot.

[Aslan]

Monday League: long/wide THS, synthetics, plays like a longer sport (48-51ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4.

584 Series: 182-203-199

Game 1 I started with the Lethal Revolver which was tearing it up in practice...switched to the Dark Encounter after leaving two weak 7-pins in the first 4 frames. But the 8-10 pocket split on the first fill shot in the 10th made me switch to the Asylum for Game 2. Missed 2 single-pins...my only opens.

But, after a flat 10 and a 5-7 split to start off Game 2...I angrily deposited the Asylum back in the bag and went the rest of the way with the Melee Jab. Only open was a chopped 2-4-5 in the 4th off a bad release.

Game 3 was actually my best game in terms of striking (6), but missed an easy 2-pin in the 3rd and chopped the 2-4-5-8 bucket in the 9th...needed to convert the 1-2-4-10 washout on the 3rd shot in the 10th frame to hit 200..but couldn't pull it off.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 45% (2 turkeys, 1 double, and 7 singles)
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-10 (2x).

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 194.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 205.33.

Had to do a make-up bowl because our 4-person team is down to 3...and one of the three is always out of town...and the other had to go to an Aunt's funeral on Monday. Supposed to be at 6PM...she showed up about 7:30. Supposedly she was gonna come over to my place on New Year's because she was all lonely...but instead partied with her ex who just got out of jail. I thought maybe I'd have a shot with her being on the rebound...but she spent most of the night texting some new guy that she met at a bar. Afterwards I invited her to my place...but she claimed she was gonna go meet a friend and do some cocaine.

THIS is why you don't attempt to date women in their 20s. They have ZERO idea of what they want...and what they DO want...aint a stable boyfriend in his 40s. Sidenote; she mentioned this "new friend/guy" is willing to join the team to fill the vacancy...deja vu all over again!! I'm very, very anxious for this nightmarish season to be over. I WILL NOT be back on this team next season...if I do stay in that league...different team is in order.

As to the actual bowling...it was better than usual. I think I was more relaxed with there being no opponents...wasn't in my own head as much. Still a tough house though...lines are just really tight there. Worked on executing my footwork and timing with my new, shorter, slower approach that I use at this house now. My high speed shot just isn't working here...so the coach helped slow my speed down. Seems to work better.

[Aslan]

You just need to believe that you're a good bowler. I know it, but the problem is that you won't believe it!

I feel I'm the opposite of most bowlers.

Most bowlers think they are WAY better than they truly are. I'm very hard to convince that I'm as good a bowler as I am. My first 300-game will help. A 700 series would help. Leading a league in average would help. Right now, it's difficult because you see higher average guys with 10-15 sanctioned 300-games under their belt...and it just seems like you're nowhere near that level. But, at the same time, I have to be realistic that those guys are all in their 50s/60s and have been bowling regularly for 10-35 years. I've been bowling regularly just shy of 2.5 years.

[RobLV1]

I feel I'm the opposite of most bowlers.

Most bowlers think they are WAY better than they truly are. I'm very hard to convince that I'm as good a bowler as I am. My first 300-game will help. A 700 series would help. Leading a league in average would help. Right now, it's difficult because you see higher average guys with 10-15 sanctioned 300-games under their belt...and it just seems like you're nowhere near that level. But, at the same time, I have to be realistic that those guys are all in their 50s/60s and have been bowling regularly for 10-35 years. I've been bowling regularly just shy of 2.5 years.

The difference is that you started correctly. You took lessons. You made an attempt to learn about bowling balls. You take the game seriously. In terms of ball reactions, etc., did it occur to you that the less physical talent you have, the more you need ball understanding and knowledge? Guys with all kinds of physical ability do need to rely on ball knowledge. The rest of us do.

[Timmyb]

I feel I'm the opposite of most bowlers.

Most bowlers think they are WAY better than they truly are. I'm very hard to convince that I'm as good a bowler as I am. My first 300-game will help. A 700 series would help. Leading a league in average would help. Right now, it's difficult because you see higher average guys with 10-15 sanctioned 300-games under their belt...and it just seems like you're nowhere near that level. But, at the same time, I have to be realistic that those guys are all in their 50s/60s and have been bowling regularly for 10-35 years. I've been bowling regularly just shy of 2.5 years.

This is exactly how I've always felt. I watch other guys that are students of the sport, and I feel like I pale in comparison. I'm still waiting for a 300 and an 800. I wonder if I shouldn't be investing in more equipment like these guys do, or whatever that special thing is that puts them over that invisible edge. I've been 200+ for a pretty long time, and I know I have LOTS of room for improvement.

[Aslan]

Guys with all kinds of physical ability do need to rely on ball knowledge. The rest of us do.
Well...I admit that from some of things I've heard...I actually DO have more knowledge about bowling balls than some pros do....but isn't that why they have ball reps? I mean, wouldn't that be a great thing if on those nights where you just can't seem to find that workable strategy...there was a guy behind you that you could trust to tell you exactly where to move and aim and which ball to throw?

Some people think that pros are ball reps with physical talent. I think of it more that ball reps are pros that lack that physical ability. Which I guess is my way of saying Iceman's old "pros that don't have the gift".

[Aslan]

Pre-League Warm-Up: 213-138

Got to the alley early and got a little high...figured I'd bowl out some of the jitters and AMF gives us two free practice games each week so I bowled a couple games. The first game...after a couple frames...I was "less high" and starting to get more balanced...then ran a 5-bagger together. Left a couple open frames though. The second game wasn't as bad as the score indicates...but was 2 for 6 on single-pin spare shooting.

Wednesday League: Easier THS.

518 Series: 179-152-187

Felt confident after the warm-up and in practice I was just destroying the pin deck. Then...

Game 1 was clean and I used the Dark Encounter the entire game. But I just couldn't carry. Only open was a 4-6-7 split in the 4th...so it felt like a better game than the score indicated.

More problems in Game 2. Timing seemed off. I switched to the Asylum in the 7th frame but nailed the pocket and left a weak 7-pin...so I put that *%#$! back in the bag after verbally scolding it. Used the Melee Jab to finish the game...but slammed the pocket in the 10th and left a flat 10-pin. Just couldn't strike.

Game 3 I used the Loaded Revolver...and it seemed to be working...but I couldn't get my fingers all the way in the ball. My ring finger insert seemed too small. Ball stuck on my hand big time in the 3rd and launched about 30-35 feet...but struck somehow. Missed my only single-pin in the first frame on a damn 9-pin...which gives me a little trouble because it's the only single-pin I don't have a system to pick up and I rarely get practice at it since I rarely leave it. I struck more, but opened on a 1-2-10 washout in the 10th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.69 pins
Strikes: 34% (3 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 65% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left the 3-pin and 9-pin twice (each) and the 2-pin and 7-pin once (each).

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (4/10)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 172.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 176.33.

Last week I bowled my only sub-145 game. This week I set another reverse milestone by having a lower series at this center than my Monday center. :(

In game 3, I had troubles with ball fit. It could be the repeat bowling (Tues, Wed) and warm-up caused my thumb/fingers to swell a bit or it could be the humidity...we're getting more rain right now than I remember seeing all of last year. But I think I'm gonna have the pro shop give me a bigger insert for my ring finger on the Loaded Revolver. It can barely squeeze into the current insert and it really hurts.

And our team has been in a funk for 4-5 weeks now. We were supposed to be a "super team" that finishes in the top 5...yet we're middle of the pack. Last month it was our #3 bowler pooing the bed. But recently it's been me failing to live up to my 198-200 average. And the female teammate kinda got into my head a bit by criticizing me during Game 2. I mean, she's a 82 average bowler and she's giving me carp about practicing before league bowling because she thought that was tiring me out or something. But she also doesn't like me getting coaching because she claims I always bowl badly the following week after getting a lesson. She didn't know any better and was half kidding...but with my confidence issues...not a great team player.

The anchor on our team says he's noticed that I used to use 1-2 balls during the series but now I'm almost going through my whole bag. And he confirmed what I felt...that my timing was late.

I have added a degree of difficulty to my bowling by having a shorter/slower approach/speed on Monday nights...but have stayed with my standard higher speed delivery on Wednesdays where it's been working well so far. Obviously that switching back and forth is going to have at least a small effect on my timing and consistency.

[shadd]

Do you have any video of you bowling? On the surface your knowledge and insight would appear to set you up for consistent success, it is very intriguing to me that the scores don't match up with the information.

I find it interesting that you were more comfortable bowling when there were no opponents. Do you have a competitive history (sports, academics, etc...) or is bowling the first time you've found yourself in a competitive-ish environment? I think my past and current athletic competitive atmosphere definitely help me with the mental side of bowling...I love to compete! Also, I think athletics in ones background really help with the coordination/physical aspect of bowling.

[Amyers]

The difference is that you started correctly. You took lessons. You made an attempt to learn about bowling balls. You take the game seriously. In terms of ball reactions, etc., did it occur to you that the less physical talent you have, the more you need ball understanding and knowledge? Guys with all kinds of physical ability do need to rely on ball knowledge. The rest of us do.

I agree with this 100%. On my scratch league I walk out there knowing that 80% of the people in the building are better bowlers than me. If I want to compete I can't make mistakes and I have to understand my game better than they do theirs. I know with my talent level I can't expect to go throw a 4 bagger every time I miss a spare and I'm not going to get a messenger come across the lane and wipe out a split for me. SO far I'm doing pretty well I've won more than 1/2 of my matches not bad for a newbie throwing their first scratch/challenge shot league.

[bubba809]

Do you have any video of you bowling? On the surface your knowledge and insight would appear to set you up for consistent success, it is very intriguing to me that the scores don't match up with the information.
I find it interesting that you were more comfortable bowling when there were no opponents. Do you have a competitive history (sports, academics, etc...) or is bowling the first time you've found yourself in a competitive-ish environment?


Good Lord, what have you done?? You just opened the flood gates!


-I for one, miss the late night stories of the two cougars back at the Aslan pad.

[vdubtx]

Got to the alley early and got a little high



Really??? Got high at the alley? Or before?



The anchor on our team says he's noticed that I used to use 1-2 balls during the series but now I'm almost going through my whole bag. And he confirmed what I felt...that my timing was late.

I have added a degree of difficulty to my bowling by having a shorter/slower approach/speed on Monday nights...but have stayed with my standard higher speed delivery on Wednesdays where it's been working well so far. Obviously that switching back and forth is going to have at least a small effect on my timing and consistency.

As usual, you are WAY over complicating things. I very rarely need to go through my whole bag to find a ball that will react the way I want it to. With all of the over analyzing you do, I am very surprised you don't know what each ball in your "arsenal" does for you at each of the houses you bowl in.

Really, from one bowler to another, stop over complicating the game and just bowl man. Perform knowing what your equipment can do and adjust with it.

[NewToBowling]

With so much miss room on THS, not sure if even 2 strike balls are needed. Unless you're playing with high rev players that burn up your lines.

[Aslan]

Do you have any video of you bowling?
It's on my "to-do list" to make a new video. I have computer issues because my laptop is sort of on it's last leg and the memory is a bit full. So, with my movie editing software, it takes up a ton of hard drive space to download the movie, copy it into iMovie, and create an edited version. I can usually delete a lot of it afterwards and also move files to flash and external hard drives...but while working with it...too much memory/hard drive space needed.


On the surface your knowledge and insight would appear to set you up for consistent success, it is very intriguing to me that the scores don't match up with the information.
What's intriguing to some, is a downright nightmare for others (i.e. Me)


I find it interesting that you were more comfortable bowling when there were no opponents. Do you have a competitive history (sports, academics, etc...) or is bowling the first time you've found yourself in a competitive-ish environment? I think my past and current athletic competitive atmosphere definitely help me with the mental side of bowling...I love to compete! Also, I think athletics in ones background really help with the coordination/physical aspect of bowling.
I've played a ton of sports. Baseball, figure skating, basketball, tennis, ice hockey, football, taekwondo, broomball, speed skating, golf, paintball, competitive running...I think that's all of them. But I've never been "good" at a sport. I've been "okay". I mean, I ran 5ks and finished top 3 in my division...I was a pretty good paintball player...above average broomball player...above average tennis player...and an average ice hockey player...but bowling is probably the sport I've had the most success in (overall).

I think this team had dilusions of grandjeur to some degree. They recruited me and the #3 bowler...and I think they thought we were going to be a top 5 team. But our #3 player had only his second good series of the year this week...the anchor has bowled just slightly better than me...we both had 9 pins of handicap for the last 2-3 weeks. The lead-off bowler is a 120-160 bowler. The female bowler averages 80-85. And we've been struggling for over a month. Nobody said anything to anyone else...but then last night I'm getting chewed out for practicing before league play as if I'm costing the team our shot at a title. I can deal with the competition...and can play the mind games with the best of them...but when your own teammates are screwing with your confidence...that's when I get flustered.

And I feel bad because she might have just been kidding around...but it's one thing for the anchor to offer pointers on how to get out of my slump or what he's seeing in my approach, etc... It's another thing for the 82 average bowler to give me ****. :mad:

[Tony]

Well...I admit that from some of things I've heard...I actually DO have more knowledge about bowling balls than some pros do....



Seems to me that you are giving yourself way too much credit here. Besides there isn't a wealth of data showing that knowing specs or trivial information about a sport equates to being able to perform well at the sport.
By virtue of your accomplishments in other sports it would appear you can be a good bowler but it's doubtful you'll ever be a pro or even top player in your league.
Don't get me wrong, I'm in not any better position as are many fair to slightly above average players. As with other sports you can learn the game and practice and become a decent player but that can only take you so far.

You seem to be under the impression that learning the stats on all the balls will somehow advance your ability, it won't make that much difference. It's great to be a student of the game and soak up knowledge but it will only have a limited effect on your performance.

[RobLV1]

You seem to be under the impression that learning the stats on all the balls will somehow advance your ability, it won't make that much difference. It's great to be a student of the game and soak up knowledge but it will only have a limited effect on your performance.

I hate to disagree, Tony, but one of the benefits of the modern game of bowling is that a knowledge of bowling balls will make a huge difference. Given one player with a lot of physical ability and little knowledge of equipment, and a second player with much less physical ability and a lot more knowledge, it's game on. Ideally, a player will have a lot of physical ability AND a lot of knowledge. Unfortunately most players with more physical ability tend to rely on that ability totally and don't bother gaining the knowledge to go with it. Those that have both are called PROS.

[Tony]

I hate to disagree, Tony, but one of the benefits of the modern game of bowling is that a knowledge of bowling balls will make a huge difference. Given one player with a lot of physical ability and little knowledge of equipment, and a second player with much less physical ability and a lot more knowledge, it's game on. Ideally, a player will have a lot of physical ability AND a lot of knowledge. Unfortunately most players with more physical ability tend to rely on that ability totally and don't bother gaining the knowledge to go with it. Those that have both are called PROS.

It's not a problem that you disagree but let me note, I was saying knowing ball specs will not improve your scoring to any great degree, knowing how the balls YOU HAVE react in different houses and conditions will be quite helpful.
That leads me to comment if Aslan is a ball expert with knowledge comparable to the PRO's why does he have mostly balls that came out before he even started bowling, he states he began bowling 2.5 years ago yet 3 of the balls he is using are from 2012 or 2011 ? Would that selection of different balls cover all conditions ? I don't know, I'm not a ball expert.
I've watched intently the ball selections and changes of a number of high average bowlers with whom I have been bowling and I rarely if ever see them use 3 to 5 different strike balls in a single series on a THS. Bowling on a house pattern and knowing your ball should not result in switching balls that much, in fact I would assert that switching balls that often would be more likely an indication that he does not have a good handle on what balls match to what centers or conditions and is simply switching balls randomly hoping to hit the right ball. Not to say that's a big deal but if someone is going to assert they have knowledge better than many pro's they should have some way to demonstrate that's it's useful knowledge rather than just knowing specifications .....

[Hot_pocket]

I hate to disagree, Tony, but one of the benefits of the modern game of bowling is that a knowledge of bowling balls will make a huge difference. Given one player with a lot of physical ability and little knowledge of equipment, and a second player with much less physical ability and a lot more knowledge, it's game on. Ideally, a player will have a lot of physical ability AND a lot of knowledge. Unfortunately most players with more physical ability tend to rely on that ability totally and don't bother gaining the knowledge to go with it. Those that have both are called PROS.

Well knowledge of bowling balls means nothing if you don't know how or when to use it. I would say there are people that could cut it with the pros but don't have the funds or time to be able to truly establish their game to pro level. Practice makes perfect and the more you bowl the better you bowl more often, whether with a new top of the line ball or 3 year old top of the line ball.

[RobLV1]

Well knowledge of bowling balls means nothing if you don't know how or when to use it. I would say there are people that could cut it with the pros but don't have the funds or time to be able to truly establish their game to pro level. Practice makes perfect and the more you bowl the better you bowl more often, whether with a new top of the line ball or 3 year old top of the line ball.

The pros are who they are because of a unique combination of physical ability, knowledge, and a mental toughness that the rest of us can't even really imagine. They became pros because they found a way to get it done despite all adversity. They found the funds. They found the time. They not only practiced to become perfect, they worked with professional coaches and made sacrifices in terms of the rest of their lives to become who they are.

[Amyers]

Any knowledge in abstract of itself is useless information. It's not until you figure out how to apply the knowledge to your endeavor that it becomes useful. I do believe Aslan has a decent grasp of bowling balls in an abstract sense and how things like rg and covers should effect them but I don't believe this translates for him into seeing how it effect his actual ball motion on the lanes. At times he also tends to go with what he thinks instead of what his eyes are telling him which causes some his issues.

The ability to read ball motion and understand what your motion and pin leaves is telling you is paramount in bowling an can equalize the playing field with another bowler who maybe more talented but lacks this ability. No amount of abstract study will make up for not being able to read your balls motion or the inability to consistently put it where you need to.

I think in the modern environment we tend to discount how good the guys on the tour truly are. It's easy to see them rolling 240 on tv and go watch your local house hack roll a 240 and think wow he could be on tour! The difference between being an above average 220-230 house shot bowler and consistently placing in the money on tour is day light and dark. The ability to constantly adjust between different houses, oil patterns, dealing with the burnt out conditions during qualifying and throwing the number of games they throw and still shoot scores like that? Unbelievable.

[vdubtx]

I think in the modern environment we tend to discount how good the guys on the tour truly are. It's easy to see them rolling 240 on tv and go watch your local house hack roll a 240 and think wow he could be on tour! The difference between being an above average 220-230 house shot bowler and consistently placing in the money on tour is day light and dark. The ability to constantly adjust between different houses, oil patterns, dealing with the burnt out conditions during qualifying and throwing the number of games they throw and still shoot scores like that? Unbelievable.

Well said. Being one of those "House Hacks" I can adjust to a certain point, but I know I just don't have what it takes to compete on the PBA level. Sure, I probably could if I could dedicate myself to just bowling on those conditions, but it's not realistic for me.

I am content competing in leagues, tournaments and at Nationals every year.

[JJKinGA]

The Air Force (or maybe it was the US Navy) did a study on how to create the expertise needed for fighter pilots. The conclusion: 10,000 hours of experience (applied learning). This has been anecdotally confirmed for other areas of expertise. Interestingly, innate ability wa not that important.

So, If you worked at bowling with intentional training for 9 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, you could get there. This is how you get to be a top level expert.

Now I think Aslan applies himself rather diligently to working at Bowling. Let's say he has 3 years at 300 hours of real training per year. He is less than 10% of the way to a world class expert.

For some talented youth with time and dedication; they can put in 1500 hours a year. That means in 4 or 5 years they are well on the way to greatness. Probably enough to maintain the level of effort they are putting in. A few years more and they are at the top level that can be in the Duke, PDW, Miki level of success.

[Aslan]

Well, just for the record...I don't even claim to be any good...much less an expert or a pro. The site says I'm a "guru" but keep in mind that on the site's scale, Iceman is a "God". :rolleyes:

What I've "heard" is that most Pros have an above-average knowledge of bowling ball technology but it's primarily what they get taught by whatever company sponsors them and what they've picked up over decades of experience with their craft. But there is certainly a "range". Chris Barnes is a "ball spec nerd" who is fascinated by bowling ball technology and physics. His approach is to know more than the other folks...to hopefully have an edge over some of the younger players coming up that at this point have a physical edge over him.

On the other end of the spectrum are Pros that quite frankly could care less about bowling ball specs. They knows the basics, they've seen the presentations, they know a bit about drilling and pin positions...but at the end of the day they rely on the ball reps standing behind them to actually give them their best ball/line. And there's nothing wrong with that.

I would say that at this stage, I have at BEST 15% of Chris Barnes's knowledge and 2% of his physical ability. See how low those numbers are!! That's why when it comes to my short term goals...there is nothing about PBA cards or anything like that. Even if I push my head into the clouds and look at my bowling "dreams/long-term aspirations"...I'm talking about spending the next 9 years bowling 1000+ games per year...taking instruction from 3 of the top 100 coaches in the game....spending $3000-$7500 per year...with the hopes that my body can hold up long enough for me to get enough knowledge and physical talent that 'maybe' I could beat a SENIOR PBA pro on the PBA50.

Realize....that dream is like an attic with very few support beams to stand on.
1) My technical ability and mental aptitude comes with the negative of over-thinking.
2) My physical ability is SO bad...that I have to work much harder to get above average much less to the next level.
3) I have a history of ankle, knee, back, neck, and shoulder problems. Bowling 1000+ games, overweight, on a questionable knee...with a sore elbow, sore shoulder, and sore ankles...I doubt the timer on this time bomb had 9 years left. Hell, I doubt I'm lasting another 2 years if I'm being honest. Probably some kind of cancer or I'll get murdered or something. Hopefully it's quick and relatively painless. I don't want to get eaten by a bear or attacked by a shark or anything.

[Aslan]

As to the ball age issue...it's been talked about before...but I guess with the new folks around...

1) My simple hypothesis is that the ball doesn't really matter.

Now, Rob tends to disagree with me on this a bit and we've had a lot of intellectual conversations here and in person about this topic. Of matter of fact, at the most recent lesson he gave me a Melee Jab to try to see if I noticed the effect that the newer technology has...and I will concede that the Jab is now probably my favorite ball in my bag. It's "erratic", but when it's "ON"...it's extremely effective.

2) My philosophy is that bowlers should work with older technology and improve their physical game before buying $240 top of the line equipment. I feel bowlers have become too reliant on technology. I want to get GOOD....and THEN level the playing field by using the newest technology.

3) Because ball companies release balls twice a year, I feel their marketing is extremely deceptive. There's simply no way the ball companies can truly improve balls and ball reactions in a substantial way in such a short time frame. So while I agree with Rob that newer technologies (especially cover stocks) can and do improve ball performance...I feel you have to get > 1.5 years difference before it's truly noticeable.

And given #3, I don't see why I'd pay $240 for a ball that in 9 months is going to be on clearance for $105 or $89.

So, that's the closest to the Mudpuppy Cliff Notes version of why my equipment tends to be on the older side. Just realize, I also go through arsenals (complete change-out) every 1000-1400 games. So just because I'm using older equipment...with the exception if the Melee Jab that was given to me second hand...all the balls are new when I start using them.

[Briantime]

That's very interesting and kind of bums me out as one who is always looking for an equipment related shortcut :-)






As to the ball age issue...it's been talked about before...but I guess with the new folks around...

1) My simple hypothesis is that the ball doesn't really matter.

Now, Rob tends to disagree with me on this a bit and we've had a lot of intellectual conversations here and in person about this topic. Of matter of fact, at the most recent lesson he gave me a Melee Jab to try to see if I noticed the effect that the newer technology has...and I will concede that the Jab is now probably my favorite ball in my bag. It's "erratic", but when it's "ON"...it's extremely effective.

2) My philosophy is that bowlers should work with older technology and improve their physical game before buying $240 top of the line equipment. I feel bowlers have become too reliant on technology. I want to get GOOD....and THEN level the playing field by using the newest technology.

3) Because ball companies release balls twice a year, I feel their marketing is extremely deceptive. There's simply no way the ball companies can truly improve balls and ball reactions in a substantial way in such a short time frame. So while I agree with Rob that newer technologies (especially cover stocks) can and do improve ball performance...I feel you have to get > 1.5 years difference before it's truly noticeable.

And given #3, I don't see why I'd pay $240 for a ball that in 9 months is going to be on clearance for $105 or $89.

So, that's the closest to the Mudpuppy Cliff Notes version of why my equipment tends to be on the older side. Just realize, I also go through arsenals (complete change-out) every 1000-1400 games. So just because I'm using older equipment...with the exception if the Melee Jab that was given to me second hand...all the balls are new when I start using them.

[Timmyb]

I agree with Aslan, in that I don't think the ball really matters. I was averaging 207 this year bowling with a 12-13 year old ball, and now I'm averaging 207 with a brand new ball. I shot in the 670's twice with both balls. Put me out there with my 40 year old LT-48, and I'll eventually figure it out. Shot placement, understanding transition, and consistency are what will make you better. That being said, I average better than probably 65-75% of league bowlers out there, and I still don't have a 300 game, or an 800 series. I've been bowling league since I was 8. I'm probably about as good as I'm ever going to get. Doesn't mean I won't finally get one someday. I just try to bowl the best I can every time.

[RobLV1]

I agree with Aslan, in that I don't think the ball really matters. I was averaging 207 this year bowling with a 12-13 year old ball, and now I'm averaging 207 with a brand new ball. I shot in the 670's twice with both balls. Put me out there with my 40 year old LT-48, and I'll eventually figure it out. Shot placement, understanding transition, and consistency are what will make you better. That being said, I average better than probably 65-75% of league bowlers out there, and I still don't have a 300 game, or an 800 series. I've been bowling league since I was 8. I'm probably about as good as I'm ever going to get. Doesn't mean I won't finally get one someday. I just try to bowl the best I can every time.

The question is how you came to decide on the new ball. If you took the time to buy a new ball that's right for you, that 300 game or 800 series is probably in your future. If you buy a new ball that doesn't match up for your game, those goals will probably stay just that: goals that you will never reach. If you are as good as you are ever going to be, having the right ball in your hand may just give you the advantage of not having to be perfect.

[Timmyb]

The question is how you came to decide on the new ball.


A guy I bowl with had a brand new 15# Nano in the box for $100. It smelled nice, so I bought it.

[Hot_pocket]

In my opinion the older the ball the hard to line up. Coverstocks and cores do make a difference on sport shots as i learned making my return to bowling this season. I was throwing a Roto grip defiant, c-system maxxed out and aplha maxx. I got a haywire and cyclone gamebreaker and it definitely helped out. On the contrary i also put in practice time to adjust my game because unlike my time as a junior bowler i wasn't bowling 2-3 times a week. I even subscribed to the USBC bowling academy to watch some lessons. I also credit my mental game even though I'm hard on myself a-lot of the time.

[Amyers]

In my opinion the older the ball the hard to line up. Coverstocks and cores do make a difference on sport shots as i learned making my return to bowling this season. I was throwing a Roto grip defiant, c-system maxxed out and aplha maxx. I got a haywire and cyclone gamebreaker and it definitely helped out. On the contrary i also put in practice time to adjust my game because unlike my time as a junior bowler i wasn't bowling 2-3 times a week. I even subscribed to the USBC bowling academy to watch some lessons. I also credit my mental game even though I'm hard on myself a-lot of the time.

The more houses or shots you play on the more balls you are going to need. I know a few one ball guys who can throw it really well on the THS shot they always bowl on. Put them on a travel league or a PBA/Sport shot league and see how well they fare it's not been pretty in my experience. Some of them decide to grow buy some additional balls and get better most of them quit after a few weeks.

[JasonNJ]

Hey Aslan, I'm usually just lurking on your thread but for some reason when I watched this video I thought about you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XjV54tetTk

Classic examples of the 2 ladies playing either the wrong line or the wrong ball and not adjusting. The older lady stayed with the same line and ball the whole match, the younger lady stayed with the wrong line but at least tried to switch balls after 5 frames. I think to Rob's point if you want until your sure your release is perfect before making a change then it's going to be too late kind of like in the video. I think both ladies should have moved right a few boards and played a straighter shot or at least tried some other things because what they kept doing wasn't working.

[shadd]

Hey Aslan, I'm usually just lurking on your thread...

Doesn't everyone do this?!?! Haha

[bubba809]

Doesn't everyone do this?!?! Haha

Yes. More than they care to admit....

[Aslan]

Hey Aslan, I'm usually just lurking on your thread
Understandable.


but for some reason when I watched this video I thought about you.
How bad are they at bowling that it reminded you of me? Oh...just watched it...yikes! Apparently "perfect" has a different translation in Japanese.


Classic examples of the 2 ladies playing either the wrong line or the wrong ball and not adjusting. The older lady stayed with the same line and ball the whole match, the younger lady stayed with the wrong line but at least tried to switch balls after 5 frames. I think to Rob's point if you want until your sure your release is perfect before making a change then it's going to be too late kind of like in the video. I think both ladies should have moved right a few boards and played a straighter shot or at least tried some other things because what they kept doing wasn't working.

And that's a perfect example of where the disagreement is. You and Rob see them missing and immediately think, "wrong ball, wrong line, not adjusting to what the lanes are showing you." I see those two ladies and I see a younger (somewhat hot) lady with a horrible approach that moves laterally and would make consistency near impossible. And I see an older lady (that looks like that dude from Fantasy Island) who was clearly having sticking/sliding issues at the line. It didn't matter what ball they threw nor line they played...they had poor approaches, poor footwork, poor timing, and poor execution. Maybe on a THS...they are 200-average bowlers...but once the conditions got more difficult...welcome to reality. My reality.

[Aslan]

Monday League: long/wide THS, synthetics, plays like a longer sport (48-51ft) with some out of bounds at 1-4.

459 Series: 151-140-168

One vacant spot, one teammate still out of town, and one teammate that once again showed up late..."nearly" caused us to forfeit AGAIN. Not happy with this team.

Things seemed okay in practice. I had a lesson with Mark on Sunday so I was probably injecting things from the lesson into my game when I probably needed to practice them a bit more before putting them into practice.

No Game-by Game is necessary. Same issues. I tried to reduce ball speed to get back to the pocket better...but I was still leaving 2-4-8, 1-2-4, 2-pin, 1-2-4. And when I tried to correct...4-6-7-9-10 split or a 6-10 through the nose.

Game 2, 2-4-5, 2-4-10, 6-pin through the nose, 4-7-10 through the nose, then back to the 1-2-4.

Game 3....5-9 split, 2-5-8, 1-2-4-8, 1-2-4, and 1-2.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.12 pins
Strikes: 27% (1 double, and 7 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: n/a
Left the 1-pin, 2-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin (1x each)

Multiple Pin spares: 56% (9/16)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (5x).

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 153.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 162.33.

Good times. NOT!

I tried everything. I tried playing up 2nd arrow. I tried playing way outside around the 3-board. And I even moved way inside to try to play a more inside line over the 15-20 board area. Tried to stay with one ball since everyone seems to think I'm going through my bag too much or too quickly. Finally switched to the Dark Encounter (from the Lethal Revolver) near the end of Game 2...but that didn't really do much different.

So yeah...get your "wish lists" together regarding Aslan's Charity Equipment Auction. I figure I'll auction off almost everything...maybe sign some of the items if requested. I mean, it's like your bidding on a piece of history. Gotta wait for the season to end though. And I found out my dumb Monday league doesn't sweep till May! Ughhhh!! I gotta bowl like this till May!!? But that's cool...even if I sell all my stuff...I can still use my Grandpa's conventionally drilled urethane ball to finish out the season.

I did SO badly that despite my left knee hurting and my right elbow throbbing...I bowled a few practice games post-league play.

512 Series: 180-131-201

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 32% (1 turkey, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (6/12)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a (1x each)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 170.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 178.67.

Used the Asylum and Melee Jab a bit. Game 3 was a missed single 6-pin away from being clean.

Didn't figure much out other than getting my hand more under and behind the ball versus on the top of the ball. That's been a constant work in progress. I'm tempted to switch to a 3-step or even a 1-step approach just to eliminate my speed from the equation.

[JasonNJ]

And that's a perfect example of where the disagreement is. You and Rob see them missing and immediately think, "wrong ball, wrong line, not adjusting to what the lanes are showing you." I see those two ladies and I see a younger (somewhat hot) lady with a horrible approach that moves laterally and would make consistency near impossible. And I see an older lady (that looks like that dude from Fantasy Island) who was clearly having sticking/sliding issues at the line. It didn't matter what ball they threw nor line they played...they had poor approaches, poor footwork, poor timing, and poor execution. Maybe on a THS...they are 200-average bowlers...but once the conditions got more difficult...welcome to reality. My reality.

Yes, I agree poor footwork, poor approaches really weird timing but even with all that, I still think they should have tried to adjust to something or anything really because you only have 10 frames and it's still a competition.

On a completely unrelated side note. I can't read Japanese but I believe they posted the averages and birthdays on the 2 ladies and only posted the average for the male bowler. The older lady is 64 and the younger one is a good looking 41.

[Aslan]

Yes, I agree poor footwork, poor approaches really weird timing but even with all that, I still think they should have tried to adjust to something or anything really because you only have 10 frames and it's still a competition.

I guess I'm just on an island on this one but I know I'm not the only one that lives by the creed that you "don't adjust off of bad shots". If your timing is bad/horrible/wrong...or any other descriptor...who cares what ball or line you're playing? Throw a house ball. It doesn't matter. Save your money. A ball can't fix what was going on with those two ladies. No chance.

You can't pull a shot and then go immediately back to your bag and say, "Hmmm...what ball do I use when I completely pull a shot? I better switch to the Sinister....because the Haywire works better when I don't pull my shot." That's redunkulus.

[bowl1820]

You can't pull a shot and then go immediately back to your bag and say, "Hmmm...what ball do I use when I completely pull a shot? I better switch to the Sinister....because the Haywire works better when I don't pull my shot." That's redunkulus.

You just can't grasp the concept can you.

If you pull the ball or leak it out, you watch what the ball does. That tells you things about a area of the lane you are not currently playing, that information will help you in making a decisions about any adjustments you may want to make.

Let's try this.

Bowler X is standing on 20 shooting 2nd arrow, they're not making any strikes. Then one frame the bowler pulls their shot 2 boards in hitting 12 and the ball crushes the pocket for a strike.

Which of these should they do?

A- Say "Well I pulled that shot, it got a strike but that dosen't mean anything it was a bad shot." and go back to standing on 20 shooting 2nd arrow, Which they know is not working and hoping something will change and that line will start working.

or

B- Say "Hey that got a strike! Maybe I should try deliberately playing that line and see what happens!" and then make a 2 board adjustment based off that "bad" shot.






.

[RobLV1]

You just can't grasp the concept can you.
.

Amen to that!

[Amyers]

You just can't grasp the concept can you.

If you pull the ball or leak it out, you watch what the ball does. That tells you things about a area of the lane you are not currently playing, that information will help you in making a decisions about any adjustments you may want to make.

Let's try this.

Bowler X is standing on 20 shooting 2nd arrow, they're not making any strikes. Then one frame the bowler pulls their shot 2 boards in hitting 12 and the ball crushes the pocket for a strike.

Which of these should they do?

A- Say "Well I pulled that shot, it got a strike but that dosen't mean anything it was a bad shot." and go back to standing on 20 shooting 2nd arrow, Which they know is not working and hoping something will change and that line will start working.

or

B- Say "Hey that got a strike! Maybe I should try deliberately playing that line and see what happens!" and then make a 2 board adjustment based off that "bad" shot.






.

I have consistently agreed with you and Rob on this point for quite a while now but I've been in the process of making some changes to my game over the last 2 months and I think I'm beginning to understand Aslan's point of view here some also. In truth you are both correct in different ways but just are not seeing the other's point of view.

In your example Bowl1820 is a bowler who threw a proper ball but missed their target by a couple of boards and learned something from it. This is always how I have viewed this in the past myself and I've actually changed my line off a misses in the past.

To take what Aslan's experiencing in context. You throw ball 1 it strikes has nice movement to the pocket. Ball 2 miss a board right but another strike. Ball 3 misses 2 boards inside washout. Ball 4 hits target washout. Ball 5 Makes 2-1 right adjustment hits target washout. Ball 6 hits target goes through the nose for a big split. What did you learn from any of this? Nothing except that unless your able to at least marginally have a repeatable release what your eyes tell you doesn't mean much.

I recently changed from a very short approach with a very cupped release that produced a low speed ball but with consistent motion. To a longer approach with the ball higher in the setup which has raised my ball speed but I was no longer able to use the very cupped release that I have for many years. I've found myself in some games having experiences like those listed above and it become frustrating just not knowing what's coming next. Honestly when your bowling like that even hitting your mark is irrelevant because you just simply don't know what's going to happen with the ball regardless of where it started from. During my rough patch with this I seen balls hit the exact same target at the arrows and even hit the same break point produce reactions from Brooklyn strike to hitting the 6 pin. If that's happening your not learning anything except you better fix your release.

So well thrown balls that missed your target you can learn a lot from. Poorly thrown balls that miss your target don't tell you much.

[bowl1820]

I have consistently agreed with you and Rob on this point for quite a while now but I've been in the process of making some changes to my game over the last 2 months and I think I'm beginning to understand Aslan's point of view here some also. In truth you are both correct in different ways but just are not seeing the other's point of view.

In your example Bowl1820 is a bowler who threw a proper ball but missed their target by a couple of boards and learned something from it. This is always how I have viewed this in the past myself and I've actually changed my line off a misses in the past.

Yes, if you have a new bowler or one having some other release issues and their just spraying the ball all over the lane. Then yes, The information doesn't particularly help in that instance.

But in Aslan's case I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt, that he's been bowling long enough. That he has a somewhat consistent release and he should be able use the information that can be gathered from less than perfect shots.



To take what Aslan's experiencing in context. You throw ball 1 it strikes has nice movement to the pocket. Ball 2 miss a board right but another strike. Ball 3 misses 2 boards inside washout. Ball 4 hits target washout. Ball 5 Makes 2-1 right adjustment hits target washout. Ball 6 hits target goes through the nose for a big split. What did you learn from any of this? Nothing except that unless your able to at least marginally have a repeatable release what your eyes tell you doesn't mean much.

In this case here, the bowler to me is making a pretty repeatable shot (and he's slightly speed dominate). Their either hitting their mark or just missing 1 board right or 2 left.

Ball 1: His starting line, Here watching the pins would be helpful in determining how good of a strike it was.
Ball 2: Told him he had recovery to the right of ball 1's line.
Ball 3: Shows he had a lot hold left of ball 1's line, which would be good for later as he moved in during the night.
Ball 4: Shows his starting line, may be a little too close in to the hold area left.
Ball 5-6: Okay, he made adjustment. This is where experience comes in, IMO there were 3 choices.

1- Roll ball 2's line, play that recovery area.
2- Play ball 1's line, but change to a more aggressive (or one with more surface) ball.
3- Move.

Me, I would most likely try "1" first, Because if the bowler was still missing left/right about that same amount. He'd most likely still have good recovery to the right and he'd have a little less hold to the left which should reduce the chance of leaving a washout.

then "2" if 1 didn't work out.

In the case of the 2-1 right adjustment of ball's 5-6, the balls reactions IMO showed that line was maybe speed sensitive. ball 5 was most likely fast, with 6 being slow. Depending on the bowler he would need to maybe change lines or change balls to better match up with the speed he is comfortable with.



I recently changed from a very short approach with a very cupped release that produced a low speed ball but with consistent motion. To a longer approach with the ball higher in the setup which has raised my ball speed but I was no longer able to use the very cupped release that I have for many years. I've found myself in some games having experiences like those listed above and it become frustrating just not knowing what's coming next. Honestly when your bowling like that even hitting your mark is irrelevant because you just simply don't know what's going to happen with the ball regardless of where it started from. During my rough patch with this I seen balls hit the exact same target at the arrows and even hit the same break point produce reactions from Brooklyn strike to hitting the 6 pin. If that's happening your not learning anything except you better fix your release.

In this instance your learning a new release, Now this doesn't minimize the amount of information you can gain from those missed/bad shots. Just that you can't fully utilize it yet.

But with your experience and as your release settles down, I'm sure you'll be able to start incorporating more of that information into the adjustments you are making. (You may already be doing it to a extent and not realizing it.)



So well thrown balls that missed your target you can learn a lot from. Poorly thrown balls that miss your target don't tell you much.

I believe even a poorly thrown shot still can tell you a lot, like lane conditions in other areas, how the ball reacts at different speeds etc. But if you don't have the ability/experience to capitalize on that information, Then yes the information doesn't particularly help.

[Amyers]

Yes, if you have a new bowler or one having some other release issues and their just spraying the ball all over the lane. Then yes, The information doesn't particularly help in that instance.

But in Aslan's case I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt, that he's been bowling long enough. That he has a somewhat consistent release and he should be able use the information that can be gathered from less than perfect shots.




In this case here, the bowler to me is making a pretty repeatable shot (and he's slightly speed dominate). Their either hitting their mark or just missing 1 board right or 2 left.

Ball 1: His starting line, Here watching the pins would be helpful in determining how good of a strike it was.
Ball 2: Told him he had recovery to the right of ball 1's line.
Ball 3: Shows he had a lot hold left of ball 1's line, which would be good for later as he moved in during the night.
Ball 4: Shows his starting line, may be a little too close in to the hold area left.
Ball 5-6: Okay, he made adjustment. This is where experience comes in, IMO there were 3 choices.

1- Roll ball 2's line, play that recovery area.
2- Play ball 1's line, but change to a more aggressive (or one with more surface) ball.
3- Move.

Me, I would most likely try "1" first, Because if the bowler was still missing left/right about that same amount. He'd most likely still have good recovery to the right and he'd have a little less hold to the left which should reduce the chance of leaving a washout.

then "2" if 1 didn't work out.

In the case of the 2-1 right adjustment of ball's 5-6, the balls reactions IMO showed that line was maybe speed sensitive. ball 5 was most likely fast, with 6 being slow. Depending on the bowler he would need to maybe change lines or change balls to better match up with the speed he is comfortable with.




In this instance your learning a new release, Now this doesn't minimize the amount of information you can gain from those missed/bad shots. Just that you can't fully utilize it yet.

But with your experience and as your release settles down, I'm sure you'll be able to start incorporating more of that information into the adjustments you are making. (You may already be doing it to a extent and not realizing it.)




I believe even a poorly thrown shot still can tell you a lot, like lane conditions in other areas, how the ball reacts at different speeds etc. But if you don't have the ability/experience to capitalize on that information, Then yes the information doesn't particularly help.

You are correct in the fact that there is still info there. I've since modified my release and I am thankful that I believe I've put that behind me but it really did cross my mind when I was bowling like that "My god is this really what it's like to bowl like Aslan!!!" I don't say that to run him down I just felt like what I was doing has been described by him a million times in his posts and it was a problem I've never really had before. It's immensely frustrating to realize that even if I hit my mark I had no real clue where the ball was going to end up.

I agree that Aslan's a better bowler than he gives himself credit for but when I was having this issue it would pop up and destroy the middle of a game or a whole game and then fade back away and come back again. It really does leave you not trusting yourself or what you see. It was until I realized the issue wasn't missing the target but a failure on my part to put my hand in a strong position to release the ball on a constant basis that I was able to fix the problem.

[RobLV1]

As the only one of us who has actually met, given lessons to, and bowled with Aslan, let me tell you two things about him:

1. He is not the lousy bowler that he pretends to be on these boards. He is not as good as he would like to be, but he's getting there.
2. He firmly believes that half the fun of participating here is to become someone that he is not. While most of us do this to a small degree, he takes it to a whole new level!

[Aslan]

Yes, if you have a new bowler or one having some other release issues and their just spraying the ball all over the lane. Then yes, The information doesn't particularly help in that instance.

But in Aslan's case I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt, that he's been bowling long enough. That he has a somewhat consistent release and he should be able use the information that can be gathered from less than perfect shots.
Well, now I see why you're so wrong on this issue...that is a horribly wrong assumption to make! ;)

I agree with Amyers...I think we're more in agreement than it seems...we're just wording it a bit differently.

I think, for the sake of peace and unity and the goodwill of mankind...lets just say it like this:
Any time you throw a ball...where it DOESN'T go in the gutter...you can potentially learn something from the shot. And I'll even concede that even bad bowlers...if you close your eyes and wait to watch until after they let go of the ball...you can potentially learn some minor, small things from their ball motion. But, you have to make at WORST a "below average" shot before I'd recommend moving off it.

And I'm not speaking theoretically here. I've moved off bad shots. 2013, all of 2014, and half of 2015...I was adjusting off every shot that didn't strike. I had all kinds of adjustments I was making. I had a ball switching system. But what I learned was...sometimes I'd "forget" to make a move or ball change...and the next shot would hit perfectly. And I started to realize...my release is SO bad...and speed SO high...that slight variations in my timing, approach, release, and footwork...were having FAR more of an impact than movements and ball path recognition, and lane transition. And I've found that on nights when things are really, really going well...I rarely move or switch balls. When things are going BADLY...I might make 9 lateral adjustments on each lane and go through all 5 strike balls.

So, I concede that watching the ball on the lane, regardless of shot perfection, is possible and could provide insight. But it's a fairly universal concept that you "don't adjust off of bad shots". The trick in the equation, and why it's so easy to argue about is...what is "good enough"? Again, that would be a great article idea...what is a good enough shot to adjust off of and what kinda of shots would you not adjust off of. Without assuming that the person reading it is a professional.

I mean, I've seen bowlers completely pull a shot and dump it in the channel 3/4 of the way down the lane...and they go back to their bag, slam their ball down, and grab a different ball mumbling...I hate that &#$%$%ing ball!!! They usually proceed to do that until they run out of balls in their arsenal. No reasoning, no strategy, no system...just frustration leading to a random variable.

[Aslan]

As the only one of us who has actually met, given lessons to, and bowled with Aslan, let me tell you two things about him:
Uh oh.



1. He is not the lousy bowler that he pretends to be on these boards.
You do realize there is video evidence (click my USBC number in my signature) and statistical evidence (bowl.com) that actually might refute that belief right?


He is not as good as he would like to be, but he's getting there.
Actually, the series score graph was actually trending in a positive direction until recently. But again, it's kinda like "beauty is in the eye of the beholder". Some people have watched me bowl and asked if I'm a professional. Others have watched me bowl and are the first to point out I shouldn't quit my day job.



2. He firmly believes that half the fun of participating here is to become someone that he is not. While most of us do this to a small degree, he takes it to a whole new level!
Hmm. Okay, for the sake of agreement, I WILL say that I am not AS MUCH of a jack*** in person that I appear to be online. Just like you are far more likeable (as is MWhite) in person than you may appear in the forums. Just like Iceman doesn't seem as crazy in person as he does online. So, there is some truth to that. But with relatively few exceptions, most of what I write on here is in fact a good reflection of my personality.

Think of it like Eddie Haskell in "Leave it to Beaver". Whenever he's around Beaver's parents, he's so nice that it's sickening. But in private, he's a complete jerk-wad. I'm not to either end of those extremes...but I think most people have the ability to "tone down" their inner demons when in public and interacting with other humans...and I think most people do have a darker, edgier side to them that tends to come out in private. The internet is simply a mode that is suited for that.

After 4 decades...one thing I've found to be almost universally true is that much of our happiness is determined by our expectations. Give a poor person from rural West Virginia $400 and they'd spend the entire year feeling blessed. Give Paris Hilton $400 and she'll probably spit on you. Different expectations.

Most bowlers don't care. They don't care if they win, if they score high, they don't care about bowling as a sport, they have no lofty goals or any goals at all, and they spend a minimal amount of money just to have something to do once a week. If they meet Rob and he gives them a lesson and they go from averaging 93 to averaging 138...they're happy. They are content. My goals are more lofty. I'm not bowling "for fun". I HAVE FUN when I bowl well...but I'm miserable all week long when I don't. Most people watch other bowlers and think, "Oh, I wish I was as good as him!" I look at that same bowler and think, "How can a guy with that quirky, random approach and top-of-the-ball release average 189??!!!"

And the "Golden Question" is still out there...floating around...lingering. Even after Iceman had come and gone and come back and then gone, etc...the question still remains? Can a bad bowler work hard enough to become an elite bowler? Were your parents telling you the truth when they said "you can be anything you put your mind to"? Or is that just a fairy tale we tell children to keep them off the pole and out of jail? Is it just that some people are gifted and some are not? I'm still hanging onto hope that Iceman is wrong. And that hard work, patience, perserverence, devotion, money, time, instruction....I'm still holding out hope that hard work can trump "The Gift". But if I can't make it to the next level...despite my investment of time and money...despite taking lessons from not only 3 of the top 100 coaches in the country...but also on a monthly basis from Mark Baker...arguably the best bowling coach in the World...then I'm wrong. And that's that. Iceman is right, I am wrong. And that's a horrible reality...because if he's right about the Gift...what about all his other crazy concepts?? Is the government poisoning us? Are Aliens impregnating our women? I hope not.

[Amyers]

The worst thing about it is that it doesn't take much to wreck a game. On a night when your not striking you throw two washouts you're in the 160's at best add a split and a missed spare you're in the 140's. Doesn't make you a bad bowler just struggling with the wrong thing.

I've seen bowlers change balls off of gutter balls too. you just have to shake your head and laugh.

[Tony]

Understandable.


How bad are they at bowling that it reminded you of me? Oh...just watched it...yikes! Apparently "perfect" has a different translation in Japanese.



And that's a perfect example of where the disagreement is. You and Rob see them missing and immediately think, "wrong ball, wrong line, not adjusting to what the lanes are showing you." I see those two ladies and I see a younger (somewhat hot) lady with a horrible approach that moves laterally and would make consistency near impossible. And I see an older lady (that looks like that dude from Fantasy Island) who was clearly having sticking/sliding issues at the line. It didn't matter what ball they threw nor line they played...they had poor approaches, poor footwork, poor timing, and poor execution. Maybe on a THS...they are 200-average bowlers...but once the conditions got more difficult...welcome to reality. My reality.

Granted they have some issues with their game, but in all honesty they probably don't see the same way you see it, and they should be making adjustments. You say there's no adjustment that can fix those things but you know that you see people with poor form and goofy habits averaging 200 in leagues all over the place. They are making adjustments and finding the pocket in spite of the wandering, bad timing, poor release and other such items. The way I see it is if the ball doesn't do what you wanted it to do you make some slight adjustment to try and correct it. If needed you make larger adjustments/ switch balls or whatever you can to try and improve your odds. I'm no expert but even I have got to the point that when practicing I will throw on different lines in an attempt to learn how to adjust. I'll play a game only shooting outside 2nd arrow another over 2nd arrow and 3rd and 4th just to get the feel of how I need to play the angle to get my ball back to the pocket with power.

[Tony]

Uh oh.




And the "Golden Question" is still out there...floating around...lingering. Even after Iceman had come and gone and come back and then gone, etc...the question still remains? Can a bad bowler work hard enough to become an elite bowler? Were your parents telling you the truth when they said "you can be anything you put your mind to"? Or is that just a fairy tale we tell children to keep them off the pole and out of jail? Is it just that some people are gifted and some are not? I'm still hanging onto hope that Iceman is wrong. And that hard work, patience, perserverence, devotion, money, time, instruction....I'm still holding out hope that hard work can trump "The Gift". But if I can't make it to the next level...despite my investment of time and money...despite taking lessons from not only 3 of the top 100 coaches in the country...but also on a monthly basis from Mark Baker...arguably the best bowling coach in the World...then I'm wrong. And that's that. Iceman is right, I am wrong. And that's a horrible reality...because if he's right about the Gift...what about all his other crazy concepts?? Is the government poisoning us? Are Aliens impregnating our women? I hope not.

The government is poisoning us ! Just to get that out of the way !
The one concept that you might have overlooked is exactly how coaching is supposed to make us better, the idea of going to a guy who tells me what I do wrong and how it's done correctly is one aspect, from your descriptions you get that but the secondary part and maybe the most important part is learning our own capabilities and learning to detect and correct our own errors, this essentially is the point that enables you to be your own coach and make corrections or diagnose our own problems and make corrections. Gaining a least a portion of that knowledge is what can make the difference in day to day play, it doesn't replace getting some good coaching but adds to it and gives you a gift of your own that makes you a better player.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Easier THS.

481 Series: 146-158-177

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 34% (1 double and 9 singles)
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin (4x)
Also left a 2-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (7/15)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 160.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 164.33.

Two weeks ago I bowled my only sub-145 game.

Last week I set another reverse milestone by having a lower series at this center than my Monday center.

Now my first series under 500.

Had a lesson beforehand that went very well...shot a 237 during the lesson.

Kept a detailed notebook of the series because I was going to post what happened, how I felt the shot went, the speed, and the adjustments I made. I figured if I posted that detail...it'd give Amyers and Rob a bit more to go on. But honestly, I'm 45 posts away from "Bowling God" status on the site and I don't really want to post much. If I don't break out of this slump, I want to save up my last posts for selling my stuff...without hitting "God status" which I clearly think is not only undeserved...but at this point giving me "God status" only serves as a mockery to the site. At least Iceman had flowing white hair...kinda like a "Greek God"...not to mention he DID defeat me soundly at the Aslan vs. Iceman Challenge.

I need to smoke some weed and go to bed. I'm mentally and physically exhausted after tonight. :(

[Amyers]

Wednesday League: Easier THS.

481 Series: 146-158-177

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 34% (1 double and 9 singles)
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin (4x)
Also left a 2-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (7/15)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 160.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 164.33.

Two weeks ago I bowled my only sub-145 game.

Last week I set another reverse milestone by having a lower series at this center than my Monday center.

Now my first series under 500.

Had a lesson beforehand that went very well...shot a 237 during the lesson.

Kept a detailed notebook of the series because I was going to post what happened, how I felt the shot went, the speed, and the adjustments I made. I figured if I posted that detail...it'd give Amyers and Rob a bit more to go on. But honestly, I'm 45 posts away from "Bowling God" status on the site and I don't really want to post much. If I don't break out of this slump, I want to save up my last posts for selling my stuff...without hitting "God status" which I clearly think is not only undeserved...but at this point giving me "God status" only serves as a mockery to the site. At least Iceman had flowing white hair...kinda like a "Greek God"...not to mention he DID defeat me soundly at the Aslan vs. Iceman Challenge.

I need to smoke some weed and go to bed. I'm mentally and physically exhausted after tonight. :(

I don't know this crap happens to me all the time too. Last meeting with my coach while I was working with him I rolled 9 strikes in a row. I've never done it during league or in practice before. Felt like I was ready to go out and throw some new high scores ended league that night with a 530 something. I think it has to do with 2 things. 1 when you're working with the coach your mind is on what they are telling you and you're not thinking about everything else. 2 When you make a mistake they are there to correct it immediately instead of us throwing 2-5 bad balls while trying to figure out what's wrong.

2 things that I notice from looking at your stats. Way too many multi-pin spares which means you are not hitting the pocket enough. Which I'm sure you are all to aware of and you left 4x single pin 5 pins in three games? How does that happen even when I threw the ball at 10 mph I didn't leave many 5 pins. Tells me even when you were hitting the head pin it wasn't right or the ball wasn't performing.

It's not just you. I struggled getting the ball to hook properly Thursday and Friday last week so I spent some practice time working on my release after league. Saturday had a real nice series felt like I had it worked out. I was asked to sub last night got up there and I couldn't release the ball like I did on Saturday at all and to top it off everything I threw wanted to hook the lane. So instead of using the new improved more powerful release I spent the night using techniques to keep the ball from hooking by adjusting my hand position. I'm glad that I was able to adjust because before when I had conditions like that I would have had a poor series ended up with a 619 but the game is just weird sometimes.

[JasonNJ]

Amyers has a point, if you're hitting the pocket consistently and leaving 5 pins when is the last time you have your balls resurfaced or baked? Last year when I got back into bowling, I had no idea about ball maintenance except to clean them. I had a Storm Crux Pearl and was bowling great with it but then I hit like a 6 week slump and at first I thought it was me but it was the ball had died on me. It wasn't until one night, I felt like I was throwing it well I hit pocket every shot but kept leaving 8 pins or pocket splits that I figured our something was wrong with the ball. So I baked and resurfaced the ball and my ball reaction came back and my slump was over.

[Tony]

I've noticed in several instances there are references to getting high, it would seem to me that in itself might be a limiting factor.
It's a know fact that smoking has an almost immediate effect on the brain in area's that regulate balance, posture, coordination of movement, and reaction time.
Seems to me that that is going to be working against you.
If the plan is to get high and bowl then why waste money on all the balls and lessons, just bowl and have fun.
We have a team of stoners in one of my leagues but they don't smoke until after they are done bowling because they know it jacks with their ability to bowl well...

[Aslan]

I've noticed in several instances there are references to getting high, it would seem to me that in itself might be a limiting factor.
I've been ins such a funk lately that I actually considered that.

Just for everyone's background information:
1) If you're a kid reading this, stay in school and drugs ain't cool. Now go play Halo for a minute while the adults talk. Or better yet, go practice at the bowling alley.
..now that they've left the room...
2) I have a liscense, so it's 100% legal. Okay, 80% legal.
3) I have semi-breakable "rules" that I adhere to such as I don't usually smoke during weekdays because I have a job I need to keep. I also try not to smoke 1-2 hours before bowling. I experimented with it as a way of getting me less "in my own head"; but it turns out it negatively affects my balance so it just didn't work. I also don't usually smoke in my own place...try to keep it outside for smell issues. I try not to in my car, same reasons.

So, that being said...with this crazy near 2 month suckfest slump...I actually started bowling where I made sure not even to touch the stuff anytime near/before bowling thinking maybe it was just an "effect" that I couldn't pick up on.

So, yeah. I actually did try to isolate that issue and I don't usually bowl within 1-2 hours of getting high anyways.

[Tony]

I've been ins such a funk lately that I actually considered that.

Just for everyone's background information:
1) If you're a kid reading this, stay in school and drugs ain't cool. Now go play Halo for a minute while the adults talk. Or better yet, go practice at the bowling alley.
..now that they've left the room...
2) I have a liscense, so it's 100% legal. Okay, 80% legal.
3) I have semi-breakable "rules" that I adhere to such as I don't usually smoke during weekdays because I have a job I need to keep. I also try not to smoke 1-2 hours before bowling. I experimented with it as a way of getting me less "in my own head"; but it turns out it negatively affects my balance so it just didn't work. I also don't usually smoke in my own place...try to keep it outside for smell issues. I try not to in my car, same reasons.

So, that being said...with this crazy near 2 month suckfest slump...I actually started bowling where I made sure not even to touch the stuff anytime near/before bowling thinking maybe it was just an "effect" that I couldn't pick up on.

So, yeah. I actually did try to isolate that issue and I don't usually bowl within 1-2 hours of getting high anyways.

According to science, a typical high last 2-3 hours and psycho-motor impairment can remain after the initial high effects have worn off. If you want to really exclude the effect of smoking from your game you should probably refrain from smoking anytime earlier that day or within 8 hours of bowling if possible. Of course if it's a legit medical reason you should weigh the effect on your health in relation to your potential bowling success.
I don't know what it takes to get a license or legality of using in your situation but just looking at it from the potential effects on bowling, of course some prescription medications and alcohol are also potential factors for any bowler. I know many bowlers also drink while bowling and that can certainly have an effect on performance.
I find that drinking can effect my game and instead of starting to drink in the first game if I wait until the middle of the 3rd game the alcohol doesn't start to take effect until I'm done bowling.
As I am not judging your activities, just suggesting you take into consideration some if the medical evidence that might indicate factors beyond actual bowling skill, that might impact your performance.

[Aslan]

Search for Slump Kryptonite:

PRACTICE:

Bowled a few games last night going complete old skool reboot. Took out the 14lb, conventionally drilled Columbia Blue Knight out of retirement. I also cut the approach completely out and just stood at the line and threw the ball.

It was difficult going to a conventionally drilled ball and unless I tried to take the thumb out or palm it, even at such a low speed there isn't going to be any automatic hook in such an older technology ball...not built-in anyways. The old balls don't come pre-loaded.

I was drawing a small crowd of guys that usually roll against me in the 8:00PM tournament and they couldn't figure out what I was doing. One asked/yelled something about me trying to sandbag or something like that. So, for Game 4 I took the only other ball I brought with me, the Hammer Rhythm, and bowled a game with my 4-step approach and a more relaxed swing. Bowled a 164. It "felt" better though. And there was definitely a lot more backend, even with the 16lb ball, because my speed couldn't have been more then the high 15s; probably in the 14s.

I was debating on whether I wanted to try and move to a 3-step approach but I'm so used to a 4-step, I have a feeling the 3-step would mess up my timing big time.

I wanted to go practice again this morning but my elbow is sore so I think I'll give it a break. Tomorrow I think I'm just gonna take the Rhythm and the 16lb plastic ball with me to league night. Keep the approach and speed slow, try let the ball read the lanes more, and take the arsenal out of the equation. Can't worry about ball changes if I don't bring any balls to change to.

[RobLV1]

The only thing that a 3 step approach will get you is late. Bowling is always based on four steps for a reason. The best way out of a slump is to go back to basics based on feel, not analysis. Go out and practice what feels right, not what you know is right. It's should be called Zen and the art of Bowling. Become one with the pins and knock the damn things down!

[Aslan]

I forgot tomorrow is a holiday.

Sweet. I'd go over and practice but the place is going to be packed. Maybe if I can drag myself out of bed I can go over there early in the AM and get a little practice. I wish my damn elbow didn't hurt so much. Back, knee, ankle...I can deal with...they come and go as long as I don't overdue it. But for crying out loud, the elbow is hurting so bad it hurts while doing laundry.

I don't think I did anything permanent. I think I was trying to use my elbow to generate revs and the more I tried, the more damage I did...and without taking a few weeks to totally rest that arm...I'm just gonna have to push through it.

[Tony]

I forgot tomorrow is a holiday.


I don't think I did anything permanent. I think I was trying to use my elbow to generate revs and the more I tried, the more damage I did...and without taking a few weeks to totally rest that arm...I'm just gonna have to push through it.

It's probably an inflamed tendon, if you've had it before you already might know a combination of stopping trying to put extra spin on the ball and wearing one of the pressure strap braces that go just below the elbow will usually take care of it in a few weeks.

[Aslan]

It's probably an inflamed tendon, if you've had it before you already might know a combination of stopping trying to put extra spin on the ball and wearing one of the pressure strap braces that go just below the elbow will usually take care of it in a few weeks.

Thanks. I was tempted to practice this morning but the elbow was still sore. But at leagues it felt okay. I think it was because I took a few Advil PMs. But good insight. It feels like either a ligament or tendon. And I've always wondered what those circular things were that some bowlers had on their forearms.

Monday League: Heavy volume, wider 30ft THS

522 Series: 209-157-156

Continued with the slower, easier, less "in my own head" approach that I worked on at practice Saturday.

Game 1 everything seemed to be working...a few bad shots on my part...but mostly encouraging.

Game 2 was simply horrible spare shooting. Probably only would have been in the 174-189 range. I just lost my strike line and struggled to find it again.

Game 3 the lanes were just transitioning too fast for me to keep up. I switched to the Asylum on both lanes midway through the game. Found a decent strike line but early on spare shooting was bad and I had more splits in Game 3 than I usually have in an entire series.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 41% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin and 5-pin (2x each)
Also left the 6-pin and 7-pin (1x each).

Multiple Pin spares: 36% (4/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (2x).

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 3 games: 174.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 185.67.

Keeping things simple and just worrying about shot placement, balance, and timing seemed to be working better. Some of the strikes were rather impressive. And the spare shooting was certainly awful, but in fairness the only multi-pin leaves that were "easy" were a couple 4-7s, a 2-5, and a 2-4-5. The other multi-pin leaves were a 1-3-6-8-10 and 2-4-8 I missed, a 1-7-8 split that I actually made, and 4 splits including the 4-6-10, 4-7-10, 6-7-10, and 4-6.

Still need to get back on track on Wednesday; but this was at least a "mini" confidence booster the week before I bowl in my first (and potentially last) tournament of 2016 that will be held in this house next weekend.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Longer, heavy-volume in the middle, very dry outside THS.

484 Series: 186-143-155

Came in confident and thinking the slump was over. Game 1 was better than the score indicates. Only one open on a 2-5-8 where I somehow managed to clip just the 2 and 8 off it...which I could try to do 50 times and not be able to. But a horrible shot in the 10th left me a 1-2-5-10. Technically not a "split", but it might as well be. The open in the 10th cost me a likely 198-202. But I was still confident and figured once the lanes broke down a bit more; my shot would play nicely.

Game 2 I switched to the Dark Encounter but just couldn't find a consistent shot and my spare shooting fell in the pa-booper; had to strike in the 9th and mark in the 10th just to avoid having a new lowest score for me at these lanes.

Game 3 I used the Asylum but still couldn't find my line. Only one shot struck and it was a weak spill of a strike. And I made a lot of spares, but missed a few. The 1-2-10 is understandable. But the single 10-pin and 4-7 are inexcusable.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 28% (1 turkey and 6 singles)
Spares: 59% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, and 6-pin (2x)

Multiple Pin spares: 41% (5/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 161.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 167.33.

Very disappointed. I was even tempted to just stay home from Wednesday league until I snap out of this slump because I'm carrying a 193 average in that league and haven't yet seen a 190s game in that league in 2016. So, the team has to bowl their dairy heirs off just to make up for me being a disaster. Last week the girl bowler on the team that averages about 102 beat me. This week I got beat by the guy on the team that usually bowls in the 120-140 range.

I love being on a team that is competitive despite the added pressures of winning. On the other hand, it's not "fun" when you are in a slump and watching your team fall to about 18th from 6th. Just like three seasons ago when my company team was somehow magically in first place with about a month before sweeps...then everyone just forgot how to bowl. I can't explain it any other way. I think we ended up finishing 9th.

Even though the elbow, knee, and ankle aren't in the best of shape; I'm going to have to practice tomorrow to get some confidence before this weekend's BVL tournament.

[RobLV1]

One obvious question. As you said, game 1 was pretty good except for the bad shot in the 10th, so why did you change balls for game two? There's no rule says that you have to change balls each game. If it's not broken, don't fix it.

[Tony]

One obvious question. As you said, game 1 was pretty good except for the bad shot in the 10th, so why did you change balls for game two? There's no rule says that you have to change balls each game. If it's not broken, don't fix it.

Good question, and not only switched for game 2 but switched again for game 3 to a different ball, I could have seen switching back to the original ball, if anything.

[NewToBowling]

Try playing one ball at least the first two games and see where it gets you. Heck try it for all 3

[vdubtx]

One obvious question. As you said, game 1 was pretty good except for the bad shot in the 10th, so why did you change balls for game two? There's no rule says that you have to change balls each game. If it's not broken, don't fix it.

Goes back to the whole discussion on not making a move on a bad shot.

K.I.S.S.

[Aslan]

In game 1 I threw a perfect shot with the Lethal Revolver in I think frame 8 and it left a flat 10-pin.

Could it have been a bad spot? Could it have been a slight release variation due to speed or axis tilt variations? Sure.

But...textbooks (and most coaches) would tell you that if you throw a perfect shot (or close enough) and leave a flat 10 or flat 7; the MOVE is either:
1) (traditional theory) Your line is slightly off. Move either 1:1 right to get a little more in the dry...or move 0.5 boards right with your feet...just to straighten that line out a little.
2) (modern theory) Your ball has lost too much energy to carry, you should go to the last line that worked and ball down to a ball that goes slightly longer and retains a little more energy.

In Game 2, same thing happened in like the 2nd or 3rd frame on the other lane...so I started using the Dark Encounter on both lanes. But then, in the 7th frame...same thing, flat 10-pin...so I switched to the Asylum. In the 10th frame, other lane, same thing...so for Game 3 I was using the Asylum on both lanes the entire game.

I used to just move right. Remember "Miss left, move left. Miss right, move right?" Or did we give up on that around the time we gave up on targeting closer because a closer target was easier to repeatably hit? :confused:

And this is a new concept for me. The idea that a perfect shot will leave a flat 7/10-pin not because the ball is too weak...but because it is entering the hook/roll phases too early and not "retaining energy"...I used to just make slight lateral adjustments. Then one fateful day...I decided having an arsenal would be "cool". Now my back hurts from carrying 6 balls everywhere I go and I'm worse off performance-wise than I was using one ball. Live and learn I guess.

Something in game must have changed. I doubt the center changed the pattern. Other players are still doing well. But this house used to have a great shot for my speed-dominant, rev-limited style when using a solid cover up the 6-8 boards. Now I can't get the ball back to the pocket. I even slowed my approach/ball speed down to the 14-17 range (versus the old 16-19 range)...and it just seems like the ball isn't moving. Maybe my rev rate is higher than I think...and the ball is just burning up. Who knows?

I did notice that the Asylum seems to want me to move inside. It doesn't "like" the outside up-and-in shot. The problem is my revs can't get the ball back to the pocket if my left foot gets near 25 and/or my target at the arrows gets inside 12 at the arrows. I'm almost guaranteed to leave a 2-4-5 if I move that far inside. The Asylum WANTS that shot...but I can't make that shot work.

I'm tempted to switch to where I only have 4 balls (3 and a spare) with me at each house...but I don't know which balls to bring/leave.
Options:
A) Leave the Asylum home. It's obviously not a ball that matches my game and most times I bring it out it carries horribly. It's the only ball of my 5 that you could say has a statistically significant lower strike rate than the other options.
B) Leave the Loaded Revolver at home. The Melee Jab is essentially the same ball with newer technology...so why bother brining the Lo. Revolver when you rarely ever bowl on conditions dry enough where it actually gets used? On the flip side, the Lo. Revolver has the highest strike % of any ball I carry...AND, the Jab IS noticeably stronger than the Lo. Revolver primarily just due to the newer technology...so it might have a place after all.
C) Leave the Dark Encounter at home. It's too close to the Lethal Revolver in ball specs. I've tried to polish it a bit...to create some separation...but it's a ball that doesn't hit nearly as well as the Le. Revolver and isn't as different from the Le. Revolver as I need it to be in order to truly be a good ball down option.

Another possible theory is that my rev rate has increased...and maybe I need to stop throwing solids in the dry and start throwing some Pearls instead. Maybe start with the Jab and use it for two games, then switch to the Loaded Revolver for Game 3.

I also think my elbow pain is due to me trying to stay under the ball and inside the ball. The old suitcase release was ineffective, but it was easy on the forearm and elbow. Trying to stay more under and behind the ball (versus releasing on top of it)...is putting stress on the tendons and ligaments running through my elbow. I think I have a moderate case of lateral epicondylitis. If I hold my arm out straight and try to make a "come hither" motion with my whole hand...fairly severe pain on the outer part of my elbow.

I tried one of those straps you put just below your elbow...and it seemed okay...but I don't know if it did anything. I was thinking of getting a copper fit elbow brace or something...but most data shows that elbow sleeves and the like do practically nothing other than look cool.

The problem is, like most strains of ligaments, tendons, muscles, etc... The treatment is physical therapy and rest. And I tried the home physical therapy on my left knee...after about 3 weeks it got annoying so I stopped. And unless the pain is unbearable...I'm not going to quit bowling. I'm 5 weeks away from sweeps. On the other hand, maybe I just sit out the rest of the season...let the team have my 193 average (minus 10 equals 183) and I sit it out till sweeps. It would hurt them less than my bowling has recently.

[Aslan]

I might need to break down and just make a short video and post it so people can SEE the abortion that is my bowling game versus reading about it.

I'm just hesitant because I'm new in the Monday league so I'd probably get "weird looks". I don't want the nickname "camera guy" or something. And on Wednesdays, there's no way. I already get teased every time I practice before league play or some of the guys come in and see me getting a lesson. And my team feels the same as most people on this board...that I'm trying too hard, keeping notes, practicing, getting lessons....and that all of that is a "BAD" thing and the reason for my recent slump. So I start taping myself bowling and they'll probably steal and break my camera.

Maybe tonight. Sore elbow or not, I need to practice. So I think I'll finally make a video tonight...post it...let everyone see the GREAT PROGRESS that has been made...and yes, I'm saying that facetiously...and have no idea how to spell facetious.

http://cdn.meme.am/instances/500x/48459437.jpg

[vdubtx]

I even slowed my approach/ball speed down to the 14-17 range (versus the old 16-19 range)...and it just seems like the ball isn't moving.

Do you really see that much variation in your ball speed?
That is just too much variance to get a consistent read on ball reaction.

Just my $.02

[Aslan]

Do you really see that much variation in your ball speed?
That is just too much variance to get a consistent read on ball reaction.

Just my $.02

Not usually...but last night, with a shortened approach...occasionally I'd see a 17mph...16s. But most of the shots were in the 14-15mph range. And it must be all arm/shoulder...because I'm practically tip-toeing to the line and have very little slide. I'm "trying not to try"....which is an oxymoron...but without going to a 3-step approach or just standing at the line with no approach...I don't see what else I can do to get the speed down. And it scares me to think how hard I would be throwing it...IF...I was actually trying to throw it hard.

In my old approach, most shots were in the high 16s...but every once in awhile...you'd see a 18...or a 19...quite a few 17s.

I don't know why. I'm not a bodybuilder. I'm not athletic. Some guys on the site have met me...I'm not Hulk Hogan. So how I'm even throwing the ball this hard/fast...I have no clue.

And those numbers are at the pins. The actual ball speed at release is approximately 2mph faster than that.

[Amyers]

I very seriously doubt with your ball speed that burning up is this issue you are facing. It's possible but I find in unlikely. Especially since you are struggling getting the ball back to the pocket on a consistent basis and if that was the problem if you move your target in a couple of boards does the ball take off and hook? I doubt it. Hard to say without seeing but from what I hear the problem is most likely one of three things.

1. Your turning the ball early
2. Your not staying behind the ball and keeping enough cock/cup on the wrist
3. Your chicken winging the ball coming around with the elbow.

Three explains the elbow pain your having my guess is your surfing from at least 2 of the three above problems.

If you want to slim your arsenal go with the Loaded Revolver, Jab, and a spare ball eliminate some of the choices may help.

[vdubtx]

Next time you have a coaching session, have the coach film you from about 10 feet up the lane, they can be on the gutter cap between lanes and filming you. Have them focus and take a look at your face to see if you are contorting at all while you deliver the ball. I am going to guess that you are muscling the ball, vs. letting the ball and gravity do it's thing.

This was eye opening as to how much effort I was putting into my shots vs. just letting the ball and arm swing without muscling it. Took about 20 minutes to get comfortable with a non-labored arm swing by using a training device she had(Eileen's Bowling Buddy).

Ball speed is just another facet of a bowlers arsenal of adjustments that can get you into a lot of trouble, or out of some difficult conditions on the lanes. Knowing how and when to speed up or down will come with practice and performance on the lanes.

[Aslan]

Friday Midday Practice:
Monday Bowling Center: Medium-oil synthetics

VIDEO TAPED: See Other Thread

559 Series: 188-203-168
Used the Lethal Revolver for Game 1 and half of Game 2. Then I used the Dark Encounter for a game and finished Game 3 with the Asylum. Seemed better than the scores indicate, was striking a lot, but had some multi-spare issues (4-7, 1-2-8, 2-4-5, 4-7-10, 4-6).

599 Series: 179-232-188
Started out with the Melee Jab because as usual, the Asylum was just not getting it done. But by the time I switched, the Jab was biting a bit too much so after only 7 frames I switched to the Loaded Revolver and then the strikes started flowing. 17 strikes in 24 frames.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.89 pins
Strikes: 50% (5 turkeys, 5 doubles, and 8 singles)
Spares: 59% picked up

Single Pin spares: 88% (8/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 4-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 47% (11/23)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-4-5-8 bucket, 2-4-5 3/4 bucket, 6-10 (3x each)

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 3 games: 193.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 194.50.

Felt good. I think once I started throwing the Lo. Revolver in Game 4...I started to get a better feel for my release. I think what I was doing that was causing the problems as well as the elbow pain...was trying to lift the ball with my fingers rather than just letting the ball go off my hand.

Moved through a lot of balls...but it was the lane closest to the entrance so it usually transitions faster. I didn't change my line much though. Was targeting 9-12 the whole time and my left toe was always between 18-23.

Didn't see much in the video. All the shots looked similar. Spare shooting was good, but not great. I picked up a 2-10 split and almost picked up the 4-6 on camera...but I also missed a 4-7, 7-pin, and chopped a 6-10 and 2-4-5...so, com si com sa.

But now I got a little bit of confidence going into BVLs this weekend. Not gonna set the World on fire entering with a 190, but 190 is the highest in Division A so at least I know my competition all averages 190 or below.

[Aslan]

Orange County USBC BVL Tournament: medium oil synthetics

I wasn't going to do any more tournaments, but;
1) This is more of a charity thing for veterans.
2) Even though my average prohibits me from competing in the B Division...my average is at the top of the A Division. So while I'm not truly a 190 average bowler...I'm only going to be competing against people with 170-190 averages.

AM SQUAD
609 Series: 195-236-178

Tough decision whether to start with the Lethal Revolver and move 2:1 inside or start with the Dark Encounter. Just didn't trust the DE so I started with the LeR. A 10-pin in the 2nd and a 6-7-10 split in the 3rd away from a Dutch-200. I just for the life of me couldn't figure out the left lane. The lanes usually play somewhat similar...but these were playing very different. I had a great shot on the right lane...but just couldn't carry on the left. Thought I was just losing energy so I tried the DE and even the Asylum.

During Game 2 the Asylum seemed to be working on the left lane and the LeR was still striking on the right lane. 10 straight strikes on the right lane. Was on track for a 240s/250s game but missed my only single pin BARELY; a 7-pin in the 10th. Was surprised when I looked up and saw that despite the miss I had a respectable 236. I guess thats what happens when you knock down 97/100 pins using the strike ball (first shot).

Game 3 went well, but two splits (my only opens) and the LeR kinda failing me (finally) in the 6th frame...pushed my scores down a bit.

While I managed to only win back the $10 I had paid in brackets; I was the Division A leader after AM Squad but I just didn't think 609 would hold up. I figured the Division A leader would need a 690+. Last year the Division A winner only had a 628 but in 2014 that guy had a 664 and lost to a guy that ran up a 689 (my highest ever series total). I wasn't sure how much better than 609 I could do, but figured I'd ride the hot hand.

PM SQUAD (no oiling between squads)

596 Series: 216 (clean)-202-178

Given they hadn't re-oiled and I was assigned the pair known to be the driest (advantage of holding the tournament where I bowl Monday leagues), I didn't even bother to take the LeR out of the bag and after some practice decided to start with the Asylum.

After 2 straight flat 10s in frames 3 and 4 I reluctantly moved to the Melee Jab in the 5th. It's actually my favorite ball to throw, but I was reluctant because I was down to 2 balls in my arsenal and still had 26 frames on dry lanes left. But, the Jab salvaged the 200+ game with 4 strikes over 6 frames. I can't remember my last clean game so this was welcomed.

In Game 2 I tried to fight switching balls as long as I could...probably too long because the Jab just wasn't ideal after 4 frames and I kept using it for 4 more before moving to the Loaded Revolver to finish things off. Only open was on a 2-7 baby split I barely missed picking up.

And apparently there's some rule that in Game 3, I always throw a 178. And it wasn't the ball....the LoR was actually punishing the pocket almost as much as the Melee Jab...but I started making bad shots...missing a bit. Was still doing well, but after 5 frames I was WAY inside my comfort zone...we're talking left toe on nearly 35 and me targeting as far inside as 18-19. For someone who hates playing left of 20 and aiming left of about 12...it was distressing. But, only two opens...a 6-7 split in the 7th and my ONLY non-split multi-pin chop of the entire day when I just didn't get enough hand in the shot and chopped the 5-pin off the 2-4-5. Actually, in the 3rd ball of the 10th I also chopped the 8-pin off the 2-4-8 if ya count that one.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.15 (AM) and 9.09 (PM) pins
Strikes: 54% (AM) and 42% (PM)
(1 4-bagger, 4 turkeys, 2 doubles, 12 singles)

Spares: 71% (AM) and 76% (PM) picked up

Single Pin spares: 88% (AM and 100% (PM) (17/18)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (8x each).
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (AM) 50% (PM) (4/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 6 games: 200.83.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 202.84.

Lead the Division after AM squad but one guy I was bowling with in the PM is the defending champion and appears to be a bit of sandbagger since his average was 178 and he was pretty darn good. But, I had him bested in Game 1 and was still ahead of him in total pinball after 2 games....but he put on a much better showing in the 3rd game and set the new Division score to beat at about 636 or 633.

Debating about going back tomorrow. I guess thats a lie...I'm not really debating. I live next door, I kinda have to go. I don't think I can put up much higher than maybe 654...but it's only $25 a pop and it's a good cause. My knee is okay. My elbow is sore but manageable.

I'll get into the more "details" of whats going better in either the video thread or the Diary thread (or probably both).

Wish me luck! The great thing about the BVL is if you win your division at the association level, you represent your association in that division at the State BVL and you get a shirt and stuff. I never finished 1st, but did finish 2nd in the Citrus Belt BVL in Division A and 3rd in the Orange County BVL Division B. I actually got asked to represent the Citrus Belt last year in Division A but it was the same weekend as my sweeps (for both leagues) in Vegas. I still would have done it if it was Division B; but I had no business in Division A...that was a sport shot adjustment chart error. I wasn't going to miss out on sweeps and possible $$$ to go to Sacramento 6.5 hours and get trounced and then drive 6.5 hours back home.

[Amyers]

Good luck tomorrow some nice scores there

[Aslan]

Orange County USBC BVL Tournament: medium oil synthetics

Coming in I was chasing 633 to try and overtake the leader. AM Squad I saw some familiar faces but was feeling a bit inferior since most everyone around me were in the division above me.

AM SQUAD
540 Series: 181-185-174

I knew I was in trouble when I had to start with the Asylum. Especially when I was already switching to the Melee Jab in the 10th frame. But after a flat-10 in the 6th and flat-7 in the 8th...and some questionable spare shooting in Game 1...I couldn't delay any longer if I had any hope of hitting 634. But, I pulled the shot and chopped a 1-2-3-5-6 in the 10th.

Felt good going into Game 2 because the Jab has really been working for me lately. The game went well, but a couple missed single-pin spares kept me from a clean game and a 205. As usual, the Jab did well, but was erratic. Switched to the Loaded Revolver in the 10th.

Game 3 was good. Only an open in the 1st before AGAIN opening in the 10th. Not much carry though.

Needed to go home and grab the knee brace. Elbow is fine but the knee was sore. I was kinda worried about the PM squad though since they weren't going to re-oil and I was already down to the last ball in my progression. My only options should I run out of room left are:
1) Try to change hand position (axis tilt).
2) Start throwing the Maxim (plastic).
3) Try to play closer to the track with a higher speed.

PM SQUAD (no oiling between squads)

529 Series: 142-204 (clean)-183

Was more relaxed bowling with some lower average seniors, but just couldn't seem to carry and my spare shooting went in the toilet. I was just way too inside my comfort zone and having trouble trusting that the ball would come back.

Carry didn't improve in game 2, but spare shooting was perfect. A 3-6 and the rest all single-pins.

Game 3 started off rough, but I got back in my groove and even managed to strike a little bit. But, no shot at first place again this year. Probably won't know even unofficial standings for a week or so. I anticipate 2nd to 5th in the division.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.81 (AM) and 8.91 (PM) pins
Strikes: 41% (AM) and 33% (PM)
(1 turkey, 4 doubles, and 13 singles)

Spares: 61% (AM) and 68% (PM) picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (AM) and 84% (PM) (16/20)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (8x).
Only left a single 1-pin nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (AM) 44% (PM) (10/20)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5, 6-10, and 3-10 baby split (3x each)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 6 games: 178.17.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 185.33.

Probably won't know even unofficial standings for a week or so. I anticipate 2nd to 5th in the division. I don't think I won anything else. I was kinda disappointed that I spent $50 on raffle tickets to try and win a ball...hoping for the Brunswick Brainiac...but nope. No brackets either. But, two days of competitive bowling for $152 total with most of it going to charity...not the end of the World. And it hopefully helped me snap out of my January slump. 2 clean games in 2 days is encouraging.

[Aslan]

Monday League: 30ft THS oiled out to about 9. Older Brunswick synthetics.

563 Series: 188-192-183

My new release is slower so I spent most of practice trying to figure out if I could play 7-8 at the arrows. The Dark Encounter seemed to hook too much out there...hook too early. But the Asylum didn't quite make it back flush. So the shot seemed "in between" balls.

I decided on starting with the Dark Encounter but it took me 3-5 frames to move inside enough. Would have been a clean game if I had picked up a 1-2-4 spare in the 5th. Missed a couple boards right...not a ton of miss room in this house.

Game 2 was more of the same, not much carry...but only one open on a chopped 3-6 in the 3rd frame. Switched to the Asylum in the 8th. After a couple slight adjustments, I struck out in the 10th.

In Game 3 the strikes continued...but the Asylum starting hitting weak in the 5th/6th so I switched to the Melee Jab to finish things off. But it worked well on one lane and not so much on the other. Missed my only single-pin of the night in the 10th...barely missing the 7-pin. But there was an open on a 5-7 split in the 3rd as well.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 7 singles)
Spares: 78% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 3-pin (2x), 4-pin, 6-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x).

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 187.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 191.67.

Felt great. Bummed that I missed that last 7-pin. Double stings when it's in the 10th frame.

The scores aren't anything to write home about, BUT;
1) My pocket percentage was probably 90% thereabouts.
2) While this is only my 3rd highest series this season in this league, this is the first time in this league that I haven't had at least one game that was 182 or lower...my most consistent outing.

[Amyers]

Monday League: 30ft THS oiled out to about 9. Older Brunswick synthetics.

563 Series: 188-192-183

My new release is slower so I spent most of practice trying to figure out if I could play 7-8 at the arrows. The Dark Encounter seemed to hook too much out there...hook too early. But the Asylum didn't quite make it back flush. So the shot seemed "in between" balls.

I decided on starting with the Dark Encounter but it took me 3-5 frames to move inside enough. Would have been a clean game if I had picked up a 1-2-4 spare in the 5th. Missed a couple boards right...not a ton of miss room in this house.

Game 2 was more of the same, not much carry...but only one open on a chopped 3-6 in the 3rd frame. Switched to the Asylum in the 8th. After a couple slight adjustments, I struck out in the 10th.

In Game 3 the strikes continued...but the Asylum starting hitting weak in the 5th/6th so I switched to the Melee Jab to finish things off. But it worked well on one lane and not so much on the other. Missed my only single-pin of the night in the 10th...barely missing the 7-pin. But there was an open on a 5-7 split in the 3rd as well.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 42% (1 turkey, 2 doubles, and 7 singles)
Spares: 78% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 3-pin (2x), 4-pin, 6-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x).

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 187.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 191.67.

Felt great. Bummed that I missed that last 7-pin. Double stings when it's in the 10th frame.

The scores aren't anything to write home about, BUT;
1) My pocket percentage was probably 90% thereabouts.
2) While this is only my 3rd highest series this season in this league, this is the first time in this league that I haven't had at least one game that was 182 or lower...my most consistent outing.

The numbers look better on your last few outings. I'm not sure your quite at 90% pocket percentage with 9 multi-pin spares but it's an improvement that's for sure. It also looks like the ones you are leaving are more makeable too.

[Aslan]

The numbers look better on your last few outings. I'm not sure your quite at 90% pocket percentage with 9 multi-pin spares but it's an improvement that's for sure. It also looks like the ones you are leaving are more makeable too.

It could be closer to 80%. Probably a couple strikes were Brooklyn, so that counts against pocket %. A couple 3-pins where I went through the nose or Brooklyn-side. So lets assume all the multi-pin leaves weren't pocket...add in 4 more shots...that's 13. Assume 33 first shots, 20/33 = more like 60-61%. I think it felt "different" because usually I'm coming in light...leaving a lot of 2-4-5s, 1-2-8s, 1-2s, 2-5s, etc... This time...most of my misses were through the nose...giving me a 4-7, 3-6, some 6-10s, a 3-6-9-10, single 3-pins, 3-10 baby splits, etc...

On the one hand, it's riskier because some of those could have been splits had luck gone a different way. The 4-7 could have been a 4-7-10....things like that.

The improvements are easier to see in person....which is why I shoulda waited a week to do the video. It wasn't till the later shots in that video where I started to figure things out a bit. And then I refined those improvements over the course of the weekend tournament. And the spare shooting was the most noteable for me. I'm finding that it really doesn't matter release/timing so much on the corner-pin spare shots...what matters is focus. FOCUS. Keep you eye on that target and just throw it straight at it. Loft, no loft, release...none of that really matters.

And confidence. It's hard to "be confident". People say that all the time, "Be confident, but not arrogant." The problem is...people who are honestly confident....are confident for a reason. Sean Rash isn't confident because he's a horrible bowler and is just tying to be confident so he can bowl well. He knows he's a superior talent....he has the accolades...so confidence almost comes naturally. But for a marginal bowler...confidence comes from success...and when you're not doing well...when you need that confidence boost the most....that's the exact time you're not confident.

But after bowling in the tournament...in a division higher than I realistically should be in....and holding my own...even having my name on the leaderboard briefly...it just made me feel like I could "compete". It didn't feel like most of January where I'm off to the side scared poo-less that I was going to bowl a 140 or go 40% on single-pins or strike at < 30%...not find a line....use the wrong ball(s)...etc...

Each game Monday I made a mistake in the 3rd or 5th frames. And I immediately wanted to crawl into my cave and curl up in a ball. But then I looked at Pinpal...and thought, "You still could strike out for a 247 or 267. You've ran 4-8 strikes together before. You're not 'done' yet. Finish strong, finish clean...you're around the pocket a LOT tonight...don't derail yourself." And it wasn't easy because two guys on the opposite team were just killing it...which would normally make me feel inferior...but I knew I had the better form, the better spare shooting, and if they were going to beat me...I was going to at least make them work for it.

And while this was only my 3rd highest series this season in this league...like I said in the score posting...it was consistent. The two times I scored higher...maybe one game I got a 231 or 221 or something like that....but one game would be a 182...and most other nights in this league...even if I had a couple 190+ games...I'd end up shooting a 154 or something.

And the ball changes, even though I didn't make my best use of my practice time...seemed to be working okay. The Dark Encounter wasn't carrying great...but once I switched to the Asylum and made a slight adjustment to my line...I think I struck out in the 10th and struck 3 out of the first 4 frames the following game.

And I'm able to play inside more with this slower approach and smoother release. The release isn't ideal yet...still needs some serious work...but at least now I can stand a little left of center, open my shoulders a little, and let the ball do it's thing. That sounds intuitive, but at 17-19mph..."out and in" was about my only option given my weak release.

And that's the scary/exciting thing about this new approach/release. I let a few of those shots go and was very, very tempted to give that ball a little "extra"....worried at that angle it wouldn't make the turn....but you have to trust it. And I'll be damned....I trusted the Asylum to make the turn and doggone it....it made the turn. Still not my favorite ball....I still think it's a bit weak...but I think a lot of my struggles with the Asylum is that it really "wants" to play an inside line. It doesn't "want" to play out and in. I was trying to force it to play the line I wanted to play. The other 4 balls...a little more versatile...I could force them to play outside and generally have at least some success. The Asylum either wouldn't make it back...or would hit light. Trying to force a square peg into a round hole I guess.

So, a lot of good things going on...but still a lot of work left to do to start getting these changes to fell "right". Throwing it hard felt "right". This feels like I'm 75 years old and "not doing anything" but dropping the ball as I walk towards the line. That's obviously not accurate...but I still need my body/mind to "catch up" and get this approach to feel more natural.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: THS

493 Series: 167-173-153

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.44 pins
Strikes: 34% (1 turkey, 2 doubles and 4 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 6-pin (3x)
Also left a 3-pin and a couple 10-pins.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (7/14)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 164.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 174.33.

:( :(

https://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/2014-11/10/15/enhanced/webdr02/anigif_enhanced-buzz-29898-1415653049-28.gif

[Aslan]

I got up and decided to get some practice in. When I showed up, there was a no-tap tournament starting...and while I personally am embarrassed to even consider participating in such a farse...I figured at least I could get some practice on fresh oil.

I didn't keep any stats or anything....kinda no point to stats if it's not real bowling.

I started out with the Dark Encounter but quickly moved to the Asylum and used that most of game 1, game 2, and game 3. The Asylum is a great ball for leaving 10-pins...so it actually will be my go-to ball should I ever feel the need to humiliate myself in a no-tap tournament again.

Used the Melee Jab a bit in Game 3 and finished the last 3-5 frames with the Loaded Revolver.

Scores?? A 191, I think a 205 in Game 2 (maybe a 202), and either a 256 or 258 in Game 3.

It cost me $36 but I won $40 in the 50/50 so I actually made $4. Almost scored high enough in Game 3 to get some of the side pot money but not quite. It was handicap and I'm only getting 20 pins...and in no-tap you gotta be > 279 to even come close.

No bad moments...I think I missed a 6-10 in Game 1 that I wasn't to happy about and led to me kicking my roller bag in disgust. But most of my usual bad moments come from not carrying and subsequently not being able to pick off the occasional 7-pin or something. In no-tap...everything carries!

Took me way too long to figure out a good line. I shoulda been playing the track and spent most of practice trying to see which ball would work up the outside. So most of Game 1 was moving from 6-7 to 9-10.

My opinion of the tournament? Well, I made $4. Didn't carry much...which is practically the Asylum's calling card. It was amazing seeing folks that really had absolutely horrible spare shooting ability. The gal bowling next me didn't just "miss"...she was on the wrong side of the lane sort of miss. Other than that it was just confusing. I'd have a nice shot and it wouldn't carry and I'd be pissed...then immediately realize it didn't matter. Just a weird feeling.

[RobLV1]

Farse is spelled... farce! Lol

[Aslan]

Farse is spelled... farce! Lol

I learned how to spell from reading Iceman's posts...so, yeah. Some people have the Gift of spelling...some do not.

[Aslan]

Monday League: 30ft THS oiled out to about 9. Older Brunswick synthetics.

527 Series: 206-154-167

Didn't even bring the Lethal Revolver. My slower speed makes it somewhat useless. And I needed the room to bring my retired Hammer Rhythm with me so see if it fits my new teammate's hand.

Actually started out with the Melee Jab trying to play a slightly more open line over the 9-10 track area. But I just couldn't find enough oil and that ball in the dry is very unpredictable. I thought I made some nice shots...but a 4-7-10 split to start things out and a 3-4-6-7-9-10 split in the 3rd...obviously I was still too far right in the dry. But those were my only two opens and I ran some strikes together late so I was feeling good.

Not to mention that left lane was having "issues" all night, dropping and mis-spotting pins. So if ever there was an excuse regarding pin spotting...the left lane was abysmal. Twice it dropped the 7-pin and I didn't notice until I threw the ball (I don't look at the pins in my set-up/approach). And it took forever to bowl.

THEN...the wheels fell back off. The bubble gum holding the dam together...finally gave out. Opened on a chopped 2-4-8 in the 2nd, chopped 2-4-5 in the 3rd, 6-7-10 split in the 7th (that was actually more like a 6-7.5-10 since the 7-pin wiggled it's way right significantly), and a chopped 6-10 in the 10th to end the nightmare. After the first two opens...I finally forced myself to ball down to the Loaded Revolver. I hate to switch to it so early in Game 2...but I was struggling to keep the Jab right of the head-pin.

In Game 3...more spare shooting woes. Missed my only single-pin on a 10-pin (by about .75 inches) in the 2nd frame. Chopped a 6-9 in the 3rd frame...shoulda threw my strike ball but I was trying to challenge myself...challenge failed. Kept things clean until the 9th when I chopped my ole buddy the 1-2-8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.58 pins
Strikes: 39% (1 5-bagger, 2 doubles, and 4 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: n/a
Left the 4-pin, 6-pin, 8-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin. (1x each)

Multiple Pin spares: 42% (6/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x).

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 175.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 179.00.

Not great. Started out looking good early...but usually it's a bad night for me if I have to spend the entire series with my feet left of center...especially in the 30-board area. 1-4 boards left of center (21-24) I can usually handle...but when I get out to 32-35...and I'm targeting left of 15 at the arrows...the night usually doesn't go very well.

Maybe I need to add the speed back or something. I can't play the outside line nor the track if I'm throwing < 15mph. I don't have the rev rate and my release is too inconsistent. I can get the ball back near the pocket at this speed...but it hits really, really weak. But at this speed...everything 11-board or right of that...couldn't keep it from diving through the nose or going Brooklyn.

And I can see the argument about pin spotting. I'm not a big fan of that as an excuse usually...because usually it's a minor difference. But when you have a pin setter that is noticeably off...again and again...and dropping pins...that pin setter needs to be locked out and fixed...and not used. There were some gaps between the 6-pin and 10-pin that were even noticeable to the beginner bowlers.

I've downgraded my expectations in this league and just really would like to score in the high 500s. Sure, 600s would be nice...but this is a tougher house, the dots on the approach are in different spots than most other centers, the lanes are old and play "more differently" lane to lane and pair to pair than most other houses around here...the equipment is about as old as you can get and still have computerized scoring (pic below)

http://en.citizendium.org/images/thumb/7/79/Bowling_scoring_terminal.jpg/200px-Bowling_scoring_terminal.jpg

...it's a little tougher, I gotta figure out either how to get more rpms and throw at a 16mph speed or figure out how to make 14-15mph work...and that takes some time to figure out.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: THS, some nice bounce on the outside and decent hold in the middle, easier shot/house

528 Series: 171-199-158
Used the Dark Encounter in Game 1. Barely missed a single 3-pin in the first frame and then missed a single 7-pin in the 6th. Otherwise clean, just couldn't seem to carry.

Switched to the Asylum in Game 2 but after 4 frames/spares put it back in the bag where it belongs...maybe I'll take it out if I ever decide to do a no-tap tournament or something...that's about all it's good for at this point. Had an all-spare game through 6 frames...but once I made a small adjustment with the Melee Jab....the strikes started coming. But the 7-pin was still mocking me...missed another single 7-pin in the 9th frame and then left another single 7-pin on the 3rd shot of the 10th...which cost me the 200.

Started out with the Jab in Game 3...but shoulda switched. I ended up changing to the Loaded Revolver in the 3rd frame and finished with that. But, more carry issues...and I chopped a 6-10 in the 5th then a 3-6 in the 6th...so obviously, despite overwhelmingly good spare shooting...another night ending with a score in the 150s (155, 153, 158 over last 3 weeks).

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.79 pins
Strikes: 26% (2 doubles and 5 singles)
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (10/13)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (6x) Also left a 3-pin and a couple 10-pins.
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (7/14)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6 (3x)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 176.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 187.33.

Ughh. Glad the spare shooting was better. Not perfect, but better.

No league play for a couple weeks. And of ALL the times I'm gonna be out of town...it's the week we play the top team in the league with the super ringers on it. I've been wanting to face those guys all season...and it's one of two nights this whole season where I actually have to miss. Once when I went to New Orleans for work a few months back...and now this time. Ughhh.

But I plan to spend a lot of evenings at the Gold Coast trying to get as much practice as I can while I'm there. No gambling, no women, no shows...just work seminars during the day and bowling at night. Try to get my line dialed in...figure out how the lanes tend to play. Get some semblance of a strategy so maybe...just maybe...I can compete with some of these guys when we sweep in March. It's a tough league with some really good bowlers, so if I'm going to beat them...it has to be because I put in the time to get the lanes figured out while they are bowling on what I consider to be the easiest conditions in the area. ANOTHER 300 game last night. I think that's 5 so far. Maybe 6 or 7....a lot.

[RobLV1]

You asked a while back for high average leagues to watch. Check out the Bud Almost Scratch League on Tuesdays at seven at Southpoint. I have to miss next week for a hospital procedure, but I'll be back the following week. This is the ultimate high average league in Vegas. Hope to see you while you're in town.

[Aslan]

You asked a while back for high average leagues to watch. Check out the Bud Almost Scratch League on Tuesdays at seven at Southpoint. I have to miss next week for a hospital procedure, but I'll be back the following week. This is the ultimate high average league in Vegas. Hope to see you while you're in town.


Hey Rob. Yeah, I'll try to check that one out Tuesday; thanks for the info. I was going to try and get together for a lesson but since this time I'm out here for a seminar/training...my schedule isn't as flexible as it is when I'm out here just to bowl. Besides, my game is so in the toilet right now...there'd be no point to it. Something is basically off and I can't seem to pinpoint it.

I'll try to get in some bowling, hopefully at the Gold Coast since I'll be sweeping there in a month and didn't do so hot there last time. But I don't think I'm gonna do any "marathon practice sessions". My knees, ankles, shoulder, and elbow would not appreciate such shenanigans.

But if I don't see you this week, I WILL be back next month for sweeps...and hopefully I'll have these kinks worked out and we can get a lesson set up; see what kinds of progress (or regression) I've made since the last time I was out.

Practice at the Gold Coast (Las Vegas):

I'm in Vegas for a seminar/training and after my air conditioning went out (again) Friday...and looks like it's some electrical issue (which means it could be anywhere from $50-$1200). So, as far as "spending money" that I could lose in the casino or give to an escort or stripper...well, I can only afford to bowl at this point.

Wanted to leave at noon...which means I left at 4:00PM. First thing I did was hit the Gold Coast. Was hoping for a relaxing smoke, some dinner, and a bath...before going to bed and getting up at some ungodly hour to go to a meeting tomorrow morning. But it took 45 minutes to valet the car, then I get to my room and the toilet is leaking water all over the floor. I tried to get maintenance to fix it...but after an hour figured I'd just cancel the request and throw a towel down.

Ordered food...Dominos...which of course means ya never know what you're actually gonna get. In New Oreleans they forgot the drinks and sauces....this time just the sauces...so it's a slight improvement. Tried to get ice but the ice machine doesn't work...went down a floor and get it from there.

The downside to smoking weed...other than lung cancer...is when you don't smoke...you get irritable. I'm usually not very irritable...unless I'm bowling badly. But, like cigarette smokers...going too long without a 'fix' makes you irritable. So, sorry Dominos customer service...but ya just happened to screw over (for the 2nd straight time) a guy that hasn't "mellowed" yet. I couldn't, I had to wait for the stupid maintenance person to take his sweet arts time and come up here and stop my toilet from leaking....which he never did...so, I guess we'll see if it gets wet enough to leak through to the floor down below. Maybe there's somebody more important in that room...we'll see.

529 Series: 177-207-145
The lanes are harder in Vegas. Hardly any miss room to the right. I missed on a couple shots and ended up taking out the 6-9-10. Tried the Lethal Revolver for a couple games and then the Dark Encounter in Game 3. Game 2 was clean except for the first frame when I chopped a 1-2-5-9.

512 Series: 191-156-165
In Game 1, the D. Encounter was still hitting like a marshmallow...but I managed to convert most of the spares. Only open was a missed single 6-pin in the 6th. Switched to the Asylum for the last 2 games....obviously expectations were not 'high'...but if I'm going to carry it around with me...I may as well at least try to use it. But, two more frames of poor carry and poor spare shooting.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.35 pins
Strikes: 30% (1 turkey, 4 doubles, and 9 singles)
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (9/15)
Most common single pin leave: 9-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (18/27)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4 and 3-6 (4x each).

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 6 games: 173.50.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 182.67.

Oh well. At least I made it there before the cosmic bowling crowd showed up. There was a line like I've never seen before for cosmic bowling.

[Tony]

Hey Rob. Yeah, I'll try to check that one out Tuesday; thanks for the info. I was going to try and get together for a lesson but since this time I'm out here for a seminar/training...my schedule isn't as flexible as it is when I'm out here just to bowl. Besides, my game is so in the toilet right now...there'd be no point to it. Something is basically off and I can't seem to pinpoint it.



Just thinking wouldn't seeing a coach like Rob be the exact thing to help pin point the source(s) of your current slump ?
From what I've learned one of the most valuable lessons to be learned from the expert coaches is gaining the ability to diagnose and
correct your own game.

[Aslan]

Just thinking wouldn't seeing a coach like Rob be the exact thing to help pin point the source(s) of your current slump ?
From what I've learned one of the most valuable lessons to be learned from the expert coaches is gaining the ability to diagnose and
correct your own game.

Possibly. I just don't have the schedule I usually have when I'm out here. Usually I have entire days free to try and schedule a lesson. Now I have an hour here, an hour there. It's just too hectic.

What I meant by what you quoted is right now I have 3 world class coaches that have all given me a lot of good knowledge. But some would say I currently have "too much knowledge"....not enough "gift" or "ability" or "skill" or whatever you wanna call it. I've tried simplifying everything...slow things down...quiet the shoulder, etc... But at this point...I have a lesson a week from this Wednesday...I'm gonna work with that coach on my release and what may be leading to the elbow pain. I then hopefully will be able to fit into Mark Baker's schedule before I sweep in March. Probably also more released focused. And then I'll get another lesson from RobM at that point, when I'm back out here in a month for sweeps, so long as he's healthy and has some time available....and assuming I can get into town maybe a day early or whatever.

At that point, if sweeps goes as badly as January has...and as bad as February is looking....then it's not just a "slump" and while I'm stuck in my Monday league until May...I think my bowling "career" may have hit a brick wall. And as knowledgeable as Rob and Mark et al are...and thats VERY knowledgeable...there also is some truth to some people "got it" and some people "don't got it". Can I average in the 160s-180s as a league bowler? Sure. But anyone without a serious disability should be able to do that with a little work, a decent ball that fits their hand, and some experience. I'm not saying I'm totally done...but if I can't break into the 190s/200s...then I'm just a weird dude with a bowling habit. I guess there's worse things. But I'll probably stop taking lessons, investing in new equipment, bowling in multiple leagues, entering brackets/sidepots, etc... It just feels that I'm 'acting' like a good bowler with the skills of a bad bowler. And that makes it a lot less fun.

And like I've hinted at before. I probably won't be in California by Fall of this year. I don't plan on joining any leagues once Fall/Winter is over. I may try to sub or something...but I can't commit to any leagues until I know my status.

[Aslan]

511 Series: 192-156-163

428 Series: 150-140-138

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.58 pins
Strikes: 31% (1 5-bagger, 2 doubles, and 13 singles)
Spares: 44% picked up

Single Pin spares: 52% (9/17)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 38% (10/26)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-5, 6-10, and 2-4-5 (3x each).

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 6 games: 156.50.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 170.00.

[Timmyb]

The PinPal you use, is that a one-time $8.99 charge? I noticed the RollTech app is $5 a month.

[NewToBowling]

PinPal is one time fee. The iOS version is more full featured than Android. iOS has pindicators that display when you share/export the image of your games

[Aslan]

More Practice at the Gold Coast, Las Vegas

571 Series: 214-162-195

540 Series: 167-200-173

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.66 pins
Strikes: 37% (1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 12 singles)
Spares: 75% picked up

Single Pin spares: 93% (15/16)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 62% (15/24)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 2-5 and 2-8 (3x each).

Splits: 40% (2/5)

Average over 6 games: 185.17.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 186.83.

Just used the pearls and experimented with getting the ball lofted out on the lane a bit more. Still can't say I'm happy with the results....primarily just better spare shooting. Still gonna be a tough sweeps if I'm going out there with a 189 average and the only way I can get close to that is if I convert 93% of my single-pin spares.

[Aslan]

Saturday Practice:
Monday Bowling Center: Medium-oil synthetics

400 Series: 119-122-159
Just couldn't seem to hold the pocket or carry when I accidentally found it. Just a very disappointing first few games after ending on a positive note in Vegas on Wednesday.

568 Series: 173-181-214
Switched to the Loaded Revolver for the last few games. I tried and tried to keep playing that inside line; standing left toe about 25-30 and targeting 12-15 at the arrows...but most of the time it ducked through the middle and when I accidentally missed right...wouldn't make it back. For the last game I decided to move back out to my comfort zone standing left toe 17-23 targeting 8-12 at the arrows.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 29% (1 4-bagger, 2 doubles, and 11 singles)
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 81% (13/16)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, nor 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 41% (12/29)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/6)

Average over 3 games: 161.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 166.33.

I think slowing my speed down caused the slump...and trying to adopt my line to accommodate the lower speed has moved me too far left where I just don't have the release and still have too much speed to play. So now I have to find a way to move back to the track but either add the loft back in or some speed back in so I can stay right of the headpin.

[Aslan]

Monday Practice:
Monday Bowling Center: Medium-oil synthetics

A bit sore from my new running regiment I tried to start yesterday. But no rest for the wicked.

Series: 202-189-236-169
Game 1 I used the Dark Encounter and it worked well. Shoulda been a higher score but I couldn't quite convert the 4-6 in the 10th. Same thing in Game 2...couldn't quite convert the 4-7-10 in the 8th and then pulled a shot in the 10th and ended up chopping the 1-2-5-6 leave.

Game 3 I switched to the Asylum and struggled out of the gate. I was so upset I was going to just Ebay that damm Asylum. One of my more perfect shots in the 3rd frame and of course I leave the 10-pin. I tried the Melee Jab in the 4th, but it's just too strong on the backend and too erratic. So I went back to the Asylum...and while I did rather well that game...to be honest most of those strikes were rather weak.

Tried the Jab and Loaded Revolver in the 4th but switched back to the Asylum after both those options dove through the nose. Was hoping for another 200+ game but a 4-6-7 split in the 9th ruined that.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 46% (1 7-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 4 singles)
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 and 3-10 (2x each)

Splits: 33% (2/6)

Average over 3 games: 199.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 206.75.

Somewhat encouraging. Another 1.5 hours to try my luck on league conditions.

I tried the new line, left toe on center and targeting 9-board...but ultimately found my way back to standing 3-4 boards left of center and targeting just inside of the 11-board (at the arrows). I also have started targeting the arrows again (versus the dots).

Despite the semi-success I had with the Asylum today, I think I'm going to put it at the end of my progression tonight and then talk it over with my coach Wednesday. The theory behind putting it 3rd after the two solids was with a hybrid cover, it should hook sooner than the pearls. But Brunswick balls just seem to have so much more built in hook...that even the pearls are stronger. Might add some creedence to RobM's philosophy on sticking with one brand. It's really hard to know where a ball fits in a rotation when it's designed to go with other balls similar in composition.

[Blacksox1]

I am glad, you are seeing your coach Wednesday. Pro tip, write down all questions on a note card, and take it with you. ;)

[Aslan]

I am glad, you are seeing your coach Wednesday. Pro tip, write down all questions on a note card, and take it with you. ;)

You've seen how I write. :confused: How big a note card do you think I'll need?? :o

Monday League: Older Brunswick synthetics.

548 Series: 213-181-154

I started out Game 1 with the Dark Encounter, but after a weak 10-pin on a perfect shot and then a flat 7-pin on the other lane...also on a decent shot...figured I'd try the Melee Jab. Normally I'd ball down to the Asylum...but that ball has been moved to the back of the line-up until I can figure out where the **** it fits into my arsenal. Only open was a 2-7 split in the 2nd frame.

Game 2...the Jab was just too strong. I'm TOTALLY confused at how to fit it into my progression system. It's a pearl, it's stronger than the Loaded Revolver...seemed like a good spot to put it (#4). But the problem is...Brunswicks are just SO much stronger...that I don't know if it should be the 3rd ball out of my bag or the 2nd...or the 1st??? So, after diving through the nose with the Jab 3 straight frames...I went back to the Dark Encounter and just made a little move left. Finished with 6 strikes; frames 5 through 10.

After 2 straight flat 10-pins in the 3rd and 4th...I just switched to the Loaded Revolver. But I just couldn't carry. 3 missed single-pins in Game 3 after 2 missed single-pins in Game 2...just not my night.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 45% (4 turkeys and 4 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 2-pin (2x), 3-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 3 games: 182.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 196.33.

What a joke.

First, the new guy and the young gal get in some kind of lover's quarrel. So she doesn't want him to bowl with us tonight...so he leaves all sad and depressed because he really likes to bowl with us. Then I gotta deal with her constantly taking off to the bad and outside to smoke...so half the night we're just standing around waiting for her to come back. I'm surprised the old ladies we were playing with didn't have a coronary.

Also awesome when in Game 3, two of those old ladies beat me scratch. That's nice.

[RobLV1]

"I'm TOTALLY confused at how to fit it into my progression system."

Simple... get rid of this progression nonsense and look at bowling balls. One goes longer. One hooks earlier. This is not rocket science... it's just bowling!

[Amyers]

Also awesome when in Game 3, two of those old ladies beat me scratch. That's nice.

Been there done that lol. I got my A$$ kicked my a 70 year old guy throwing a line that I have no idea how he could throw Sunday in my travel league.

As usual your making the whole progression thing more complicated than it has to be. I carry three ball Storm Virtual Gravity Nano Pearl strong shiny asymmetric, Brunswick Mastermind Einstein 3000 grit strong asymmetrical, and a Hammer Arson Low Flare polished weaker symmetrical balls with me.

The VG Pearl and the Mastermind are really pretty close in strength, The VG has more backend longer but won't handle as much oil as the Einstein these are my normal starting two balls unless the lanes are dry. If I start with the VG I can usually keep the same line and ball down to the Mastermind if I start leaving corners or move 2-1 right and throw the Arson. If I start with the Mastermind I can move 2-1 left and throw the VG or move 2-1 right (or stay where I am sometimes) and throw the Arson. If they are dry as I'm warming up I'll throw the Arson. It's not any more complicated than that.

The big thing is understanding the differences between the balls and knowing how much to adjust from ball to ball.

[manke]

I agree the progression system is not working for you. If a ball is working don't switch.

[Aslan]

"I'm TOTALLY confused at how to fit it into my progression system."

Simple... get rid of this progression nonsense and look at bowling balls. One goes longer. One hooks earlier. This is not rocket science... it's just bowling!

I see your point; I do.

But again...there just isn't enough time in practice to see what the "ideal" ball is for that given center on those given lanes on that given night. All I can do is try a couple options...hope that my practice shots aren't too horrible to make any kind of good decisions.

So, I have to find a ball to "start" with and then "when do I switch?" What do I switch to? Why? Do I move laterally? Do I ball down? Do I ball up? IDK.

My old system I arranged the balls in a certain order...started in the middle...could ball up or down as needed. That didn't really work. Now I start with what hooks soonest and move down once a perfect shot (or very good shot) results in a flat 10 or flat 7 AFTER I made a move left. It's a better system, admittingly, but like any progression...it relies on the arsenal being properly assembled. Using different balls from different vendors and from different eras....it doesn't work as well.

The Melee Jab is a pearl. It SHOULD go longer than a hybrid. And I think it does. But it reacts a LOT once it starts to move. The Loaded Revolver has similar specs, but is older...and it's a much less of a reaction once it makes it move. The Dark Encounter and Lethal Revolver...similar covers, similar RGs. They 'should' react similar...but they don't The Le. Revolver is so strong I most nights can't even use it. The D. Encounter...much less reaction. The may hook at similar points on the lane...but not in the same amount.

And then there's the Asylum. It's a hybrid...should be in between the solids and pearls...but I just can't get that ball to work. I don't understand why. Most people have great success with that ball and with Rotogrip as a whole. But I cannot get that ball to make a strong move to the pocket...the only time it's really worked well is in that one no-tap tournament I did...because it's (asylum) great at knocking over 9 pins. Not so great at carrying that 10th pin though.

Gotta go...late for my lesson if theres too much traffic (crossing fingers).

[Amyers]

I see your point; I do.

But again...there just isn't enough time in practice to see what the "ideal" ball is for that given center on those given lanes on that given night. All I can do is try a couple options...hope that my practice shots aren't too horrible to make any kind of good decisions.

So, I have to find a ball to "start" with and then "when do I switch?" What do I switch to? Why? Do I move laterally? Do I ball down? Do I ball up? IDK.

My old system I arranged the balls in a certain order...started in the middle...could ball up or down as needed. That didn't really work. Now I start with what hooks soonest and move down once a perfect shot (or very good shot) results in a flat 10 or flat 7 AFTER I made a move left. It's a better system, admittingly, but like any progression...it relies on the arsenal being properly assembled. Using different balls from different vendors and from different eras....it doesn't work as well.

The Melee Jab is a pearl. It SHOULD go longer than a hybrid. And I think it does. But it reacts a LOT once it starts to move. The Loaded Revolver has similar specs, but is older...and it's a much less of a reaction once it makes it move. The Dark Encounter and Lethal Revolver...similar covers, similar RGs. They 'should' react similar...but they don't The Le. Revolver is so strong I most nights can't even use it. The D. Encounter...much less reaction. The may hook at similar points on the lane...but not in the same amount.

And then there's the Asylum. It's a hybrid...should be in between the solids and pearls...but I just can't get that ball to work. I don't understand why. Most people have great success with that ball and with Rotogrip as a whole. But I cannot get that ball to make a strong move to the pocket...the only time it's really worked well is in that one no-tap tournament I did...because it's (asylum) great at knocking over 9 pins. Not so great at carrying that 10th pin though.

Gotta go...late for my lesson if theres too much traffic (crossing fingers).

Well from reading your posts here is what I would do:

1. Your starting balls should be either the Dark Encounter or the Jab throw those two during warm ups to decide which has the better roll that night
2. Decide for yourself which you are more comfortable with ball changes or lateral adjustments and to what extent you will adjust latterly then change balls
3. With this you can move in and ball up to the Lethal Revolver or keep approximately your current line and ball down to the Loaded Revolver

A few things to consider:

Adjusting with balls requires a cohesive lineup and being willing to adjust your surfaces to get your balls to work together. I'm not sure your there yet
Quit changing balls because of a flat 10. Watch for a ball to go high, if your leaving 8's, or see the ball isn't taking out the 8 it's time to switch
Spend some of that practice time of yours figuring out which works better for you moving in and balling up or balling down on a similar line also figure out your comfort zone how far can you adjust without it messing your game up.
Most of all you've got to know how your balls work together how much stronger is the Lethal than Jab is 2-1 or 4-2 maybe 6-3? the Dark Encounter to the Revolver? You've got to know this to bowl effectively with an arsenal. Something I learned early on from Rob if you have an established line you need to be able to pick up any ball in your bag and (according to Rob throw a strike with the first roll) myself I don't count on a strike but I had better be able to put it in the pocket. I'm not sure your there yet.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: THS, some nice bounce on the outside and decent hold in the middle, easier shot/house

572 Series: 211-199-162
Game 1 was good. Missed a single 7-pin in the 7th and opened on a 4-6-7-9 split in the 10th. But managed to string some strikes together...mostly lucky breaks (if I'm being honest). One spill on a through the nose shot and 2 brooklyns....nothing thats gonna make the paper.

Game 2 I was a chopped 3-10 baby split away from a clean game....but just couldn't carry. Can't blame the ball...I just wasn't making good shots.

Game 3 the wheels came off. It wasn't horrible...but two more missed single 7-pins...one of them in the 10th...can't expect big numbers if you can't pick up corner-pin spares. : (

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 40% (1 5-bagger, 2 doubles and 4 singles)
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (4x)
Also left a 5-pin, 6-pin and a couple 10-pins.

Multiple Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4 (2x)

Splits: 0% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 190.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 201.67.

I'm not ready to declare the slump is over, but it is encouraging that I had my best series in this house since 12/16/15.

The lesson (beforehand) was very helpful. We worked on physical things like getting lower and using more spine tilt. And I think I fixed my release problem that was leading to the elbow pain. And we addressed the arsenal progression issues. The Asylum has been retired. The coach watched me throw it and saw what I saw....which is a ball that is just trying to hook too soon...and then just kinda labors it's way down the lane and hits the pocket like a wet noodle. We also moved the Melee Jab to ball #4 and the Loaded Revolver to ball #3.

I think I gotta just keep my expectations in check. I remember when I rolled three 180 games...got a nice 540-550 series....and I was on cloud nine. Now if I roll a game under 225 I feel like garbage.

[Blacksox1]

The lesson (beforehand) was very helpful. We worked on physical things like getting lower and using more spine tilt. And I think I fixed my release problem that was leading to the elbow pain.

The sentence above pleased me the most.

The sentence below, should be a major concern for a right hander.

but two more missed single 7-pins

Unsolicited advice Warning. Move 9 boards right on the approach, throw over your strike board at the arrows, convert the spare. :)

[RobLV1]

The lesson (beforehand) was very helpful. We worked on physical things like getting lower and using more spine tilt. And I think I fixed my release problem that was leading to the elbow pain.

The sentence above pleased me the most.

The sentence below, should be a major concern for a right hander.
















but two more missed single 7-pins

Unsolicited advice Warning. Move 9 boards right on the approach, throw over your strike board at the arrows, convert the spare. :)

Take your plastic spare ball, figure out where to stand (in practice) and stop trying to hook across the puddle in the middle of the lane on a house shot.

[Amyers]

Take your plastic spare ball, figure out where to stand (in practice) and stop trying to hook across the puddle in the middle of the lane on a house shot.

I've heard this advice a lot and I understand the reasoning behind it but I don't think I've ever me a a league bowler who picks that pin up with a plastic ball at as high a percentage as the ones who hook at it. On sport shots I completely agree but on a house shot it seems to be just about as difficult to pick up the 7 with plastic as the 10. For me it takes a shot that I make at 90% into one I make at 80% I guess I just need more practice with it. On both the high level leagues I bowl I know guys who use plastic for that pin and neither of them hit it with as high a percentage as I do hooking at it.

[mc_runner]

I've heard this advice a lot and I understand the reasoning behind it but I don't think I've ever me a a league bowler who picks that pin up with a plastic ball at as high a percentage as the ones who hook at it. On sport shots I completely agree but on a house shot it seems to be just about as difficult to pick up the 7 with plastic as the 10. For me it takes a shot that I make at 90% into one I make at 80% I guess I just need more practice with it. On both the high level leagues I bowl I know guys who use plastic for that pin and neither of them hit it with as high a percentage as I do hooking at it.

In league I still hook at those too, for the 4 and the 7 pins. I've missed two of each so far across both leagues this year - 96% and 94% conversions. Obviously that's on a THS... however if I throw plastic at it I'm looking at probalby going down to 80-85% conversion. In league when the shots "count" i'm not going to be doing that until I am as good at it as hooking the lane. In practice, I shoot plastic at all single pins, it's helped and of course when I do a sport league, or tournament - that practice is going to come into play. For me right now missing those extra few spares is just a tough pill to swallow when I can be consistent to the point I am at left side spares.

Now, with that said. If I was missing 7 pins with some regularity, I'd be throwing plastic at them. What would I have to lose in that case? Better to learn the right way that will serve with a lot more applications than the standard hook-across-the-lane that only works on THS.

[Amyers]

In league I still hook at those too, for the 4 and the 7 pins. I've missed two of each so far across both leagues this year - 96% and 94% conversions. Obviously that's on a THS... however if I throw plastic at it I'm looking at probalby going down to 80-85% conversion. In league when the shots "count" i'm not going to be doing that until I am as good at it as hooking the lane. In practice, I shoot plastic at all single pins, it's helped and of course when I do a sport league, or tournament - that practice is going to come into play. For me right now missing those extra few spares is just a tough pill to swallow when I can be consistent to the point I am at left side spares.

Now, with that said. If I was missing 7 pins with some regularity, I'd be throwing plastic at them. What would I have to lose in that case? Better to learn the right way that will serve with a lot more applications than the standard hook-across-the-lane that only works on THS.

Exactly how I feel MC. I've been working on it in practice too but I'm not sure how long it's going to take to get to the level I'm at when hooking at them. Occasionally on my challenge shot league they put something down that requires going straighter at it. So I've been working on it but it's a slow progress.

[Blacksox1]

Why over complicate single pins, make 90% or more, using strike line adjustments for 3, 9, 1, 5, 2, 8, 4, and 7 pins. Use plastic on single pins 6, 10. Make 90% on those. Keeping it simple. :)

[Blacksox1]

Sport shot, challenge league, usbc nationals, regional pro, etc. needs the use of plastic on all single pins.

Remember this is Aslan on a Typical House Shot. :)

[Aslan]

Interesting comments.

My thought process about left side leaves is as follows:

1) I need to figure out why (as a RHer) I'm seemingly leaving a 7-pin more often than a 10-pin.
2) There IS some momentum in bowling theory that perhaps hooking into left side leaves is better than throwing straight at them.
3) My philosophy on left side leaves (7, 4-7, 4-7-8) is that if I can't be accurate enough to pick them up using a plastic ball throwing straight at them...then thats something (accuracy) that I need to improve.

Well, time to get some practice in. I should be well rested; I slept 16 hours last night.

[Tony]

Interesting comments.

My thought process about left side leaves is as follows:

1) I need to figure out why (as a RHer) I'm seemingly leaving a 7-pin more often than a 10-pin.
2) There IS some momentum in bowling theory that perhaps hooking into left side leaves is better than throwing straight at them.
3) My philosophy on left side leaves (7, 4-7, 4-7-8) is that if I can't be accurate enough to pick them up using a plastic ball throwing straight at them...then thats something (accuracy) that I need to improve.

Well, time to get some practice in. I should be well rested; I slept 16 hours last night.

I don't know what all coaches would say about shooting left side spares with your strike ball on a house shot, I see very few guys using a plastic ball and few guys using a weaker ball on those shots, the vast majority are using a strike ball.
I also specifically asked my coach a couple of weeks ago and he said for me and most people on a house shot he thinks it's ok if they use the strike ball, the exception is if you have problems picking them up, then you should try a plastic ball.

[Aslan]

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament:

530 Series: 186-168-176

Game 1 was decent; two opens on missed single pins.

Game 2...same thing...until the last half of the game when the ball just seemed to lose it's energy and I couldn't carry. And, a missed 10-pin in the 10th frame didn't help the score any.

Game 3 I had more corner-pin problems...also a couple splits I couldn't convert...but I struck out to salvage the 176.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 turkey, 4 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (10/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 5-pin, 6-pin (x2), and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-5-9 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3).

Average over 3 games: 176.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 195.33.

Hard to stay motivated when the scoring has been so consistent:
562, 567, 568, 534, 439, 535, 531, 530

But, no bigee. I spent $20 and won $7 back...got some practice in...apparently I need to play some "low-ball" at my next practice because I can't score very high if my strike % is higher than my spare %...unless I'm striking in the 60 percentile or higher.

Used the Loaded Revolver for the first 2 games and the Melee Jab for Game 3. Probably switched too late...but the Jab scares me if I break it out too early.

The new release position seems to be working well though. When I had good spine tilt and balance, I made good shots and hit the pocket consistently. So, just gotta keep practicing and hopefully it'll come along.

[Blacksox1]

Single Pin spares: 44% Average over 3 games: 176.67. Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 195.33. As they say on TV, come on man! If only there was a way to increase single pin percentage. Leaving a 7 pin, usually involves hitting the pocket LIGHT, make an adjustment, not excuses. :)

[Tony]

Another possibility for the 7 pin leave, can be when your entry angle is too strong and the ball cuts through the 1 and 5 pins rather than driving through the 5 and into the 8, the pins fall in such a way that the 4 pin wraps around the 7 while the 5 goes straight into the pit, and nothing hits the 7

As others have indicated an adjustment would be needed ...

I bowled against a team Fri that had a guy who couldn't buy a strike, instead of adjusting he just complained that he was robbed, in one game he shot 9 spares in a row.....he figured they all were strikes.
He also did two other things, he made noises groans , complaint sounds when any of the rest of us got strikes on what he considered bad shots. For me and my teammate that was every time we struck. I also heard him behind me saying he was throwing a better ball than anyone on our pair and was getting robbed, during a game when one of his teammates was throwing a 260 game.....all by luck I guess.
One thing that is nice is my teammate beating the guy every game, I thought he was going to cry !

[Amyers]

Saturday Weekly Color-Pin Tournament:

530 Series: 186-168-176

Game 1 was decent; two opens on missed single pins.

Game 2...same thing...until the last half of the game when the ball just seemed to lose it's energy and I couldn't carry. And, a missed 10-pin in the 10th frame didn't help the score any.

Game 3 I had more corner-pin problems...also a couple splits I couldn't convert...but I struck out to salvage the 176.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 turkey, 4 doubles, and 5 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (10/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left the 5-pin, 6-pin (x2), and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-5-9 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3).

Average over 3 games: 176.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 195.33.

Hard to stay motivated when the scoring has been so consistent:
562, 567, 568, 534, 439, 535, 531, 530

But, no bigee. I spent $20 and won $7 back...got some practice in...apparently I need to play some "low-ball" at my next practice because I can't score very high if my strike % is higher than my spare %...unless I'm striking in the 60 percentile or higher.

Used the Loaded Revolver for the first 2 games and the Melee Jab for Game 3. Probably switched too late...but the Jab scares me if I break it out too early.

The new release position seems to be working well though. When I had good spine tilt and balance, I made good shots and hit the pocket consistently. So, just gotta keep practicing and hopefully it'll come along.

You are a better spare shooter than this. I understand on mutlipins to some extent but single pins? Get some practice in. I have those nights every now and again but 40%?

If you figure out the 7 pin thing let me know. I leave them on light hits, high flush hits, and hits that look good. I leave more 7's than 10's some nights too. It's especially frustrating when you start off leaving ten's and adjust or change balls and then start leaving 7's. happening a lot too me right now.

[Amyers]

Another possibility for the 7 pin leave, can be when your entry angle is too strong and the ball cuts through the 1 and 5 pins rather than driving through the 5 and into the 8, the pins fall in such a way that the 4 pin wraps around the 7 while the 5 goes straight into the pit, and nothing hits the 7

As others have indicated an adjustment would be needed ...

I bowled against a team Fri that had a guy who couldn't buy a strike, instead of adjusting he just complained that he was robbed, in one game he shot 9 spares in a row.....he figured they all were strikes.
He also did two other things, he made noises groans , complaint sounds when any of the rest of us got strikes on what he considered bad shots. For me and my teammate that was every time we struck. I also heard him behind me saying he was throwing a better ball than anyone on our pair and was getting robbed, during a game when one of his teammates was throwing a 260 game.....all by luck I guess.
One thing that is nice is my teammate beating the guy every game, I thought he was going to cry !

I bowl against a few of the guys. On my Saturday night league this week I was outside smoking when one of the other guys comes out and goes into a tirade about leaving 2-8-10's on a pocket hit. I had to fight to keep from laughing.

[Aslan]

Monday League: Older Brunswick synthetics.

467 Series: 135-143-189

I shoulda known the night wasn't gonna be good when in the first frame of game 1 I left the 7-10. Second shot I missed a 5-pin because my foot stuck and I almost fell. Chopped the 10 off a 6-10 in the 4th. A difficult 3-6-9-10 in the 8th (chopped) and in the 10th I had the 1-2-4-10...which might as well be a split.

Chopped ANOTHER 6-10 in the 2nd frame of Game 2...then had 3 splits...all opens.

Game 3 went a little better. Switched to the Melee Jab for Game 3 and had to make a little lateral adjusment and then started striking. But missed a 7-pin in the 8th frame and chopped a 2-4-5 in the 10th because the 4-pin wiggled and wandered it's way out of position.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.48 pins
Strikes: 22% (1 turkey and 4 singles)
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 30% (4/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 155.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 163.00.

:( :confused:

Wow. On the bright side...if there is one...it's not my "worst" series of the season...it's my 3rd worst.

I'm SO ready for this slump to be over...I really am. I'm getting so sick of tired of losing 4 points every night and having bowlers on the other team compliment me on what I good shot I have. If it's SO friggin good....!!! Then...????

[Blacksox1]

Aslan is there a coach where you bowl, that actually sees you bowling every week? Or most weeks?

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: THS, some nice bounce on the outside and decent hold in the middle, easier shot/house

532 Series: 203-151-178
Got to the alley early...got a little practice in. Had some more single-pin spare problems...but games 1 and 3 were one frame away from clean.

671 Series: 257-190-224
Game 1 I started with the Dark Encounter which was working well in practice. It was working so well, I changed my mind and decided to get in the side pot...even though earlier when the guy asked me I declined due to my recent slump. It just seemed like the line was working. But after 2 frames, very good pocket shots, leaving single 10-pins...I decided to switch to the Loaded Revolver. Earlier than I wanted to make that change...but as Rob would say...you don't dictate to the lanes, they dictate to you. Obviously, the ball change worked.

Game 2 I started to lose my line a bit...tried to make lateral adjustments to compensate. Would have been a clean game except for a 6-7-10 split in the 2nd frame.

Switched to Melee Jab in the 10th frame of Game 2....seemed to work well on the left lane...not so much on the right lane. Again, a 6-7-10 split in the 4th away from a clean game...just got a little too much hand into the shot.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.32 pins
Strikes: 55% (2 5-baggers, 1 turkey, 1 double, and 4 singles)
Spares: 71% picked up

Single Pin spares: 90% (9/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, nor 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-7-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 223.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 224.00.

Well, it took me all season, but I finally won a side pot!

Obviously I'm not disappointed. I hesitate to proclaim the slump is over...but tonight I felt like a "bowler" again. I was hammering the pocket, I wasn't leaving a ton of tough multi-pin spares, and the only single-pin I missed was on a fill shot in the 10th frame of Game 2.

As to 'how' I was able to perform at high level all the sudden....well;

1) My shot was more consistent. Consistent speed and hand for the most part.
2) The new progression (arsenal) seems to work better.

and most importantly;
3) I just 'took it easy'...didn't try force it, didn't muscle shots (as much), stayed lower, and tried to add some spine tilt.

Slump not totally over...I got a tournament Saturday...and a week later I have sweeps at the Gold Coast casino in Las Vegas. If I can do fairly well at those events...and maybe at least keep my Monday league series between 550 and 600...that would convince me the slump is actually over.

[fortheloveofbowling]

Nice series with the 671.

[Amyers]

Congrats on a nice set. It always feels good to throw a good one when you've been struggling. Just don't let it get in your head if you don't strike as much on the next set and let it set you back by getting frustrated. That's where I get myself in trouble after a good set or two.

[BrianG]

Nice Series Aslan.

[Aslan]

Just don't let it get in your head if you don't strike as much on the next set and let it set you back by getting frustrated. That's where I get myself in trouble after a good set or two.
Yes. With my tendency to get in my own way a LOT...it's a double-edged sword. Confidence can propel my game to the next level...but a bad game can be two steps back.


Aslan is there a coach where you bowl, that actually sees you bowling every week? Or most weeks?
Short answer: No.

I try to get a lesson from RobM twice a year when I'm sweeping in Vegas. It's more of a 'check' of where I'm at. Rob has seen my game progress since I first started and was the first 'real coach' I got lessons from. Rob also provides a better perspective on modern bowling concepts and equipment and technical expertise. I don't always agree with Rob on every modern bowling concept...but he provides a unique look and a different set of eyes. Most of my technical understanding of equipment is either a direct result of conversations with him and/or my own research trying to 'argue' with him.

The downside to Rob (in terms of my coaching) is that I don't see him regularly. But, he keeps informed and obviously offers help in the forum and follows my progress.

I've been taking lessons from Missy Parkin for about 18 months now. It's about every 3 weeks...to give me some time to work on things that we go over during the lesson. She's been an amazing help. She is not only great at 'teaching', but also is still in the thick of competitive bowling so it's not just a pro shop operator with a bronze certification trying to get me to bowl 'like them'. Her greatest strength is her ability to see a problem in my game...and if the first attempt to fix it doesn't work...she goes about it a different way. So, her coaching is very much adaptive to the bowler and their built in prejudices and limitations.

And I've been taking monthly lessons from Mark Baker for about 6 months now. Obviously, Mark has more credentials than anyone in the World. He's one of the few coaches that not only coaches the average lay person/bowler...but regularly coaches some of the most elite PBA bowlers on the tour. His lessons are expensive (about 3x what Rob charges and double what Missy charges)...and his schedule is very tight so it's often difficult to get "squeezed in"...especially if you're not retired and need a lesson in the evening or on the weekend...but his strength (IMO) is his ability to see a problem almost immediately...and he knows what works to fix it. There's very little he hasn't seen before and fixed before. And it works out nicely because when Missy is on the PWBA circuit...I still can get a lesson once a month from Mark. And when Mark is busy with clinics and PBA League, I can still get instruction from Missy.

I used to also try to get lessons from various pro shop guys and weekend clinics...but I'm happy with the coaching group I have now...and I found that before; I used to get all kinds of advice...and a lot of it conflicted. One person would want me to loft it; one would tell me not to. One person would have one spare shooting strategy and the other person a conflicting one. Too many "cooks in the kitchen" if you will.

[RobLV1]

Here is an exercise for you to get you to the next level. The good news is that you now change balls frequently, and usually make the right change. The bad news is that a ball change has become your "go to" adjustment. Here's the exercise: once you find the ball that is working for you at a particular session, stick with it for the entire session. You need to start working on horizontal moves as well as hand position changes to compliment your ability to change balls. It will feel strange at first, but once you can combine the three adjustments, I think you will be able to get to where you want to be.

[Timmyb]

Here is an exercise for you to get you to the next level. The good news is that you now change balls frequently, and usually make the right change. The bad news is that a ball change has become your "go to" adjustment. Here's the exercise: once you find the ball that is working for you at a particular session, stick with it for the entire session. You need to start working on horizontal moves as well as hand position changes to compliment your ability to change balls. It will feel strange at first, but once you can combine the three adjustments, I think you will be able to get to where you want to be.


There's a LOT to be said for this. I've been bowling with just one ball most of my life. Don't get me wrong, I have a couple, but once I've decided which one I'm using, I can count on one hand the number of times I've had to switch during the night. It may have had something to do with only having one ball when I was a kid. You had to find a way to make it work. Tuesday I practiced with both the Nano and the Fight. I set the Fight down, and bowled 653 with the Nano.

[Aslan]

I've actually been doing that a bit more simply because:

1) I've retired the Asylum; bringing me to a 4-ball arsenal (not counting spare ball).
2) Now that my speed is in the 15.3-15.9 range...versus my old 16.9-17.9 range...the Lethal Revolver is not as much of an option on a THS.

So, I usually start out with the Dark Encounter...but other than a slightly weaker company (compared to Brunswick balls) and a bit of polish I regularly apply to the D.E.....it's not usually something I can stick with for too long.

So, I've been using the Loaded Revolver as long as I possibly can...as long as I can carry corner-pins on good pocket shots...then I switch to the Melee Jab and hope that I'm inside the oil enough to keep it from over-reacting downlane.

So...I've been doing a LOT more of just small, little lateral moves...probably so small that the move is really only "in my head"....I mean honestly...if you move your feet and target 1:1...and can only hit a 3-board area consistently...and tend to drift 2-3 boards...theres "margin of error" to consider.

So, yes, by virtue of a smaller arsenal, slower speed, and better release...I'm not switching balls as much as I was before....and you're right...it's been helpful to just focus on making the shots...make some slight adjustments here and there.

My "next step" is to do a better job of seeing how the ball is reacting with the lanes and how it exits the pindeck. I still don't have a good grasp of those things and I tend to put SO much focus in my approach, release, balance, and accuracy...that I 'forget' to watch the ball and watch it move through the pins. And there's SOOOO much information...important information to be gathered from those two things...so I need do more and get better at that.

[Aslan]

OC USBC Open Tournament: low oil synthetics

Team Event:
630 Series: 221-194-215

Strike rate was great, but I struggled with easy spares.

Doubles Event:
558 Series: 182-176-200

Then things got worse. The new pair took some time to get used to; obviously beat up a bit from the earlier competition. Switched to the Melee Jab in the 5th frame of Game 1 and still couldn't strike as much, but spare shooting was improved. Game 2 was clean except for two splits I couldn't convert. Then in Game 3 I actually converted two splits but opened on a 2-4-5 in the 5th; my only open.

Singles Event:
519 Series: 152-189-178

Then things got even worse...as we moved to even MORE burnt up lanes. And all 3 games were very similar...just struggling to find a line that would work and hold up for a couple frames.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 3 turkeys, 8 doubles, 14 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 74% (20/27)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (10x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 39% (9/23)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 and 4-9 split (3x each)

Splits: 20% (2/10)

Average over 9 games: 189.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 197.33.

Can't complain too much. I helped the team to 5th place in the standings (for now). Not much more I can do handcuffed to a 190 average. I wasn't going to do the tournament this year due to my average being falsely inflated...but a fellow BVL bowler asked me to anchor his team and be his doubles partner so I agreed...and glad I did.

Definitely have a LOT to learn about how to play 9 games on burnt conditions. It's a whole other universe from standard 3-game or 4-game league nights. Once I switched to the Jab in Game 1 of the doubles match...I had no other ball to go to so I was making all kinds of adjustments....lateral, vertical, speed, hand position, etc... Things I normally don't have to mess around with on a standard league night or 3-4 game tournament.

Is the slump over? Sure feels like it. I looked very impressive in the team competition...as good as anyone else that was there...and there were some good bowlers. But, obviously if I'm gonna get to the next level...I'll have to figure out how to add some tricks to my "bag of tricks" so that I can make good adjustments when changing balls is no longer an option. And I can't "poo the bed" regarding spare shooting. 74% isn't horrible...but it's definitely going to limit me competing at the next level.

[Amyers]

OC USBC Open Tournament: low oil synthetics

Team Event:
630 Series: 221-194-215

Strike rate was great, but I struggled with easy spares.

Doubles Event:
558 Series: 182-176-200

Then things got worse. The new pair took some time to get used to; obviously beat up a bit from the earlier competition. Switched to the Melee Jab in the 5th frame of Game 1 and still couldn't strike as much, but spare shooting was improved. Game 2 was clean except for two splits I couldn't convert. Then in Game 3 I actually converted two splits but opened on a 2-4-5 in the 5th; my only open.

Singles Event:
519 Series: 152-189-178

Then things got even worse...as we moved to even MORE burnt up lanes. And all 3 games were very similar...just struggling to find a line that would work and hold up for a couple frames.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 48% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 3 turkeys, 8 doubles, 14 singles)
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 74% (20/27)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (10x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 39% (9/23)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 and 4-9 split (3x each)

Splits: 20% (2/10)

Average over 9 games: 189.67.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 197.33.

Can't complain too much. I helped the team to 5th place in the standings (for now). Not much more I can do handcuffed to a 190 average. I wasn't going to do the tournament this year due to my average being falsely inflated...but a fellow BVL bowler asked me to anchor his team and be his doubles partner so I agreed...and glad I did.

Definitely have a LOT to learn about how to play 9 games on burnt conditions. It's a whole other universe from standard 3-game or 4-game league nights. Once I switched to the Jab in Game 1 of the doubles match...I had no other ball to go to so I was making all kinds of adjustments....lateral, vertical, speed, hand position, etc... Things I normally don't have to mess around with on a standard league night or 3-4 game tournament.

Is the slump over? Sure feels like it. I looked very impressive in the team competition...as good as anyone else that was there...and there were some good bowlers. But, obviously if I'm gonna get to the next level...I'll have to figure out how to add some tricks to my "bag of tricks" so that I can make good adjustments when changing balls is no longer an option. And I can't "poo the bed" regarding spare shooting. 74% isn't horrible...but it's definitely going to limit me competing at the next level.

Congrats on some nice bowling. I haven't bowled more than a 5 game block in a tournament before so I imageine 9 would be interesting. It's always a learning expierence anytime you try new things.

[Aslan]

Monday League: Older Brunswick synthetics.

564 Series: 215-200-149

Started out with the Loaded Revolver. I'm not having much luck with the solids in this house. Inside I miss right...outside they lose too much energy and hit weak. I have to say...Game 1 I was "ON". No less than 9 pins on every shot...every shot in the pocket...and until my foot stuck in the 10th (causing me to miss a 10-pin for my first/only open)...I was dead on with spare shooting as well.

Game 2 I wasn't quite as "on"...but kept things clean other than a 5-7 split in the 7th that I barely missed.

Game 3 started out hot...until a pocket 7-10 split in the 5th frame. Then it was all opens from there on. Just couldn't find the pocket.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.97 pins
Strikes: 48% (2 turkeys, 3 doubles, and 3 singles)
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8 and 3-10 split (2x each)

Splits: 50% (2/4)

Average over 3 games: 188.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 198.00.

Jeckyl and Hyde.

The first two games I felt like bowling was actually too easy. I was effortlessly striking. And if it left a 10-pin...I was dead on picking it up.

But, then I ran into a problem. The ball started diving through the nose...so I'd make a 2:1 move left...then it would miss right and leave a 1-2-8 or 2-8. So, 2:1 back to the right...then it dives through the nose again. I made a switch to the Melee Jab in the middle of Game 3...but had the same problems. Going to have to figure out some adjustments (speed, hand, vertical) besides lateral and ball changes.

[Aslan]

Wednesday League: Meeting Night Practice

Had our pre-Vegas Sweeps meeting...I got my $10...and then practiced with a teammate to use our 2 free games per week (AMF league benefit).

206-224
Got to the alley early...got a little practice in. Had some more single-pin spare problems...but games 1 and 3 were one frame away from clean.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.22 pins
Strikes: 65% (1 5-bagger, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 1 single)
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (3/3)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a (5 different leaves)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 215.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

Since I broke out of my slump a week ago, I've average 195 and have bowled 10 (of 20) games at or over 200. Granted (just to play Devil's advocate)... 17 of those 20 games were bowled at two of the easiest houses in Orange County (AMF Carter Lanes and Forest Lanes). But even the remaining 3 I averaged 188 with 2 games over/at 200.

The downside is my arsenal is down to 2 strike balls and a spare ball...because I can't seem to use either of the two solids anymore with my slightly slower speed and higher rev rate. And I promised to give away the Melee Jab at sweeps...which means I may be down to just the Loaded Revolver and a spare ball.

Now, granted I may be able to use the solids in Vegas. I may also be able to add more speed in my approach and make the solids more relevant. But thus far, on a typical THS...the solids are causing me this problem:

1) If I play the track, where I'm best and most comfortable...7-11 boards...the solids at a slower speed miss left. Even if I add speed...which I'm trying not to do...they hold the pocket but lose too much energy and hit light leaving corner-pins.

2) If I move inside, even at a slower speed, the solids can't make it back to the pocket...and if I lower my speed accordingly...they don't carry.

And with the Asylum retired (due to poor performance/poor match to my game/style)...that leaves the Loaded Revolver until the lanes break down enough and oil is pushed far enough up where I can switch to the Jab and it won't over-react down lane.

Now, I only have one league left...due to my moving/job change situation...so it's not a big deal. I can finish the league with just the Lo. Revolver. And "God forbid" I actually get some of my other balls drilled and start using them (right?)...but maybe I'll take this as an opportunity to do what Rob was suggesting and use the Lo. Revolver and work on other changes (lateral, vertical, hand, etc...). The ball only has 46 games on it...so I should still get plenty of use out of it...at LEAST another 150 games if not 400 more.

I think the next arsenal will be to un-retire the Bullet Train...get it surfaced to 4500...and polish it. Let that be my Dark Encounter equivalent for really fresh conditions...or the occasional heavier pattern. The Track 300A I can get drilled to replace the Lo. Revolver as my sort of "go to ball"...and then get the Defiant Edge drilled up to take the place of the Melee Jab. But, that's all preliminary...the RG on the Defiant Edge might make it a better starting ball than the 300A...and the Bullet Train might not fit as well as I'm hoping...but we'll see. I'm hoping my experience with the Asylum (and RotoGrip) was more an aberration. I have higher hopes for the Defiant Edge...it'll be disappointing if it has similar performance/match-up issues as the Asylum did.

[Aslan]

Sweeps this weekend.

Hopefully my slump is officially over...because I need every advantage I can get. Sweeps are at the Gold Coast and my historical performance there is as follows:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 32% (1 5-bagger, 1 4-bagger, 3 turkeys, 15 doubles, 47 singles)
Spares: 59% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (51/72)
Most common single pin leaves: 10-pin (19x).
Never left a single 1-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 52% (61/116)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (11x)

Splits: 20% (3/15)

Average over 27 games: 169.37.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 177.11.

Those stats are about where my talent level is in most houses...but I'll be carrying a 192 average into sweeps...so, I'll need to better.

[Amyers]

Wednesday League: Meeting Night Practice

Had our pre-Vegas Sweeps meeting...I got my $10...and then practiced with a teammate to use our 2 free games per week (AMF league benefit).

206-224
Got to the alley early...got a little practice in. Had some more single-pin spare problems...but games 1 and 3 were one frame away from clean.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.22 pins
Strikes: 65% (1 5-bagger, 1 turkey, 3 doubles, and 1 single)
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (3/3)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a (5 different leaves)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 215.00.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a.

Since I broke out of my slump a week ago, I've average 195 and have bowled 10 (of 20) games at or over 200. Granted (just to play Devil's advocate)... 17 of those 20 games were bowled at two of the easiest houses in Orange County (AMF Carter Lanes and Forest Lanes). But even the remaining 3 I averaged 188 with 2 games over/at 200.

The downside is my arsenal is down to 2 strike balls and a spare ball...because I can't seem to use either of the two solids anymore with my slightly slower speed and higher rev rate. And I promised to give away the Melee Jab at sweeps...which means I may be down to just the Loaded Revolver and a spare ball.

Now, granted I may be able to use the solids in Vegas. I may also be able to add more speed in my approach and make the solids more relevant. But thus far, on a typical THS...the solids are causing me this problem:

1) If I play the track, where I'm best and most comfortable...7-11 boards...the solids at a slower speed miss left. Even if I add speed...which I'm trying not to do...they hold the pocket but lose too much energy and hit light leaving corner-pins.

2) If I move inside, even at a slower speed, the solids can't make it back to the pocket...and if I lower my speed accordingly...they don't carry.

And with the Asylum retired (due to poor performance/poor match to my game/style)...that leaves the Loaded Revolver until the lanes break down enough and oil is pushed far enough up where I can switch to the Jab and it won't over-react down lane.

Now, I only have one league left...due to my moving/job change situation...so it's not a big deal. I can finish the league with just the Lo. Revolver. And "God forbid" I actually get some of my other balls drilled and start using them (right?)...but maybe I'll take this as an opportunity to do what Rob was suggesting and use the Lo. Revolver and work on other changes (lateral, vertical, hand, etc...). The ball only has 46 games on it...so I should still get plenty of use out of it...at LEAST another 150 games if not 400 more.

I think the next arsenal will be to un-retire the Bullet Train...get it surfaced to 4500...and polish it. Let that be my Dark Encounter equivalent for really fresh conditions...or the occasional heavier pattern. The Track 300A I can get drilled to replace the Lo. Revolver as my sort of "go to ball"...and then get the Defiant Edge drilled up to take the place of the Melee Jab. But, that's all preliminary...the RG on the Defiant Edge might make it a better starting ball than the 300A...and the Bullet Train might not fit as well as I'm hoping...but we'll see. I'm hoping my experience with the Asylum (and RotoGrip) was more an aberration. I have higher hopes for the Defiant Edge...it'll be disappointing if it has similar performance/match-up issues as the Asylum did.

I actually like that line up you maybe learning. LOL. I would put the Bullet train at 3k or 4k without polish and keep it for oiler conditions. I know your having better luck with polished equipment right now but sometimes you may need something with the extra bite. Ideally you would want something between the Bullet Train/Defiant Edge and the 300a but strong high rg solid, strong low/medium rg pearl, and a high rg low oil ball is not a bad start. I'm not sure you've ever had a ball like the Defiant Edge I think you will like it. I would suggest relatively strong drillings on both the Edge and the 300A.

Good luck at sweeps.

[Aslan]

I actually like that line up, you may be learning. LOL.
Thats kind've a compliment I guess? : /


I know your having better luck with polished equipment right now but sometimes you may need something with the extra bite.
I'm starting to buy into a theory that solids and hybrids are of much lesser value than I once thought. The reason for this shift is understanding the concept of "conserved energy". I used to think that the stronger the ball, the better it could get back to the pocket from the outside...that creates angle...that gives better carry. What I've been finding recently, however, is that the key to carry is get the ball to conserve it's energy through the entire skid phase...and hook as late as possible. This tends to conflict a bit with arsenal progressions that value a lower RG and/or a solid/hybrid cover.

Now...this is all talk from a uneducated (in bowling ball terms) guy bowling on THS conditions. As those conditions become harder...I doubt I can stick to that theory and ALWAYS be successful. I doubt bowling ball companies simply make solids and hybrids for S&Gs...(although...some have hypothesized just that...)


Ideally you would want something between the Bullet Train/Defiant Edge and the 300a but strong high rg solid, strong low/medium rg pearl, and a high rg low oil ball is not a bad start. I'm not sure you've ever had a ball like the Defiant Edge I think you will like it.

My usual progression school of thought would be to start with the stronger Bullet Train and move to the strong Pearl (Defiant Edge) and then the weak pearl (300A). However, what I've learned from using the Melee Jab is that sometimes a stronger pearl is better for last...because it tends to lose too much energy up the outside (in the dry), yet is a pearl so doesn't work well for me inside (at my speed/rev rate).

Then there's the RG side of the argument. Some folks have put more of their faith in the RG of the ball than the cover. Going that route...you could line up the RGs...and use surface prep to dull or increase the cover properties. And thats why I thought the higher RG of the Bullet Train...would fit better between the low RG Defiant Edge and very high RG 300A.

But...back to what I've been learning...if I use the 300A to replace the Loaded Revolver...and the Defiant Edge to replace the Melee Jab...then I'd be starting with the Bullet Train...or maybe just use it on longer, tougher, more wide and oily conditions. In theory, the Encounter was a low-RG pearl...so I have used a low-RG Pearl in the past...but that ball never really fit my hand very well using the tri grip drilling...the thumb angle always caused that ball to stick...and consequently I never really threw it well enough to measure how successful I'd be with a low-RG pearl.


Good luck at sweeps.

Morning Practice at the Gold Coast, Las Vegas
Medium-heavy oil synthetics

495 Series: 191-159-145
Glad I brought the entire arsenal because trying to start with the Loaded Revolver was a disaster. I switched to the Lethal Revolver and move a little right and did better. But my approach, timing, and release just seemed to be out of sync.

544 Series: 191-169-184
Started feeling better in terms of my physical game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.74 pins
Strikes: 40% (1 4-bagger, 2 turkeys, 4 doubles, and 9 singles)
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (10/15)
Most common single pin leave: 7-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 34% (8/23)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6, 2-4-5, and 1-2-4 (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/8)

Average over 6 games: 173.17.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 180.83.

Tougher lane conditions than I'm used to. There's some less oily areas...but they aren't "dry"...and it's a small area. Seems like a lot of oil in the middle...only hit Brooklyn once on misses inside...most of the inside misses resulted in splits...which tells me it's a longer pattern with a significant volume in the middle.

The league is going to struggle again with them all used to that bone dry bounce area. But with a 192 entering average...I need my adaptability and experience with different lane conditions to give me more help if I'm gonna win any real money.

Gonna try to get another round of practice in tonight...maybe in an hour. I want to wait till leagues are over tonight...but then I'll be bowling in the dark with all the drunk cosmic bowlers on toasted conditions... :(

I paid twice as much as I should have because I didn't bother to look in my reservation book to find a 50% off coupon...won't make that mistake again tonight.

Might try to add just a little bit of surface to the Dark Encounter. I like it polished on lower oil and shorter conditions...but on this conditions I may need some extra bit...lots of shots missing right of the pocket. I got the D.E. in the ball dehydrator now...I'll get it wiped off and maybe knock it down to 2000 and skip the polish. Can always polish it tonight before sweeps tomorrow if I think it's dying too early.

[Aslan]

Late Afternoon Practice at the Gold Coast, Las Vegas
medium oil synthetics

668 Series: 257-221-190
Things were just working. The Lethal Revolver was performing the way it did back before my slump started. But by Game 3, the line was burning up...and then I lost it and struggled to find it again. Switched to the Dark Encounter midway through the 3rd game...but it wasn't working very well.

481 Series: 149-176-156
Swiched to the Loaded Revolver in the 4th frame of Game 4...but just couldn't seem to find a good, consistent line...and the frustration was making things worse. Midway through Game 5 I wanted to switch to the Melee Jab, but when I went to put the insert in...I noticed it was starting to chip around the thumbhole. I took it into the pro shop and they tried to fix it...but I didn't want to throw it until the adhesive had enough time to truly cure. With sweeps less than 24 hours away...and me planning to give this ball away after sweeps...it didn't make much sense to have it plugged. Helluva time to have it chip. So I just kept throwing the Lo. Revolver...and things didn't go well. I think I struck once in the first frame of Game 6...then a spare, a few opens, and spares the rest of the way. I was mentally exhausted at that point. :(

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 43% (1 8-bagger, 3 4-baggers, 1 double, and 6 singles)
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (10/14)
Most common single pin leave: 10-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 42% (9/21)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 (5x).

Splits: 16% (1/6)

Average over 6 games: 191.50.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 198.50.

Well...I guess the real question is "which Aslan is going to show up tomorrow?" The 544 series Aslan that will bowl well but not good enough to win any money? The 475 or 481 Aslan that will get trounced and frustrated and embarrassed and have a miserable drive back to SoCal tomorrow afternoon? Or the 668 series Aslan that will leave with some respect, dignity, and a little bit of money? We shall see.