ASK BOB   6/10/05

 by Bob Korth

Q.      I just bought my first ball today. I am left-handed and this is my first and only fingertip ball.  I know this will be extremely different than bowling with a house ball and my question is:  What is the SINGLE most important thing I can work on with the new ball?

A.      Put your fingers in the ball first then your thumb. Then squeeze lightly with the fingers DO NOT SQUEEZE THE BALL WITH YOUR THUMB. Just a little pressure with the fingers this will put the thumb in the proper position. Then have fun with your new ball. You will find it isa better game with a ball that fits.

-----------

Q.      I have gotten myself into a horrible slump. What do you do to break out of a slump?

A.     I personally use a couple of different methods to break a slump.

First thing you need to realize is a slump is usually not physical. Slumps are mental. They are often triggered by a bad game or series during which you suffer a loss of confidence. You get into what a friend of mine calls stinkin' thinkin'. You are saying to yourself things like I've lost the shot, I can't perform anymore, and I have tried everything and nothing works. All bowlers suffer through this from time to time. I don't believe you can practice your way out of this. So if I can I take some time off a week or two. Just get away from the game recharge my competitive batteries. Many times after a week or two off I can come ba ck having forgotten about the slump and my game is better than ever. If I can't quit because of commitments I at least try to place positive thoughts in my mind before and during bowling. I try to remember this is fun not work. In other words break  up the stinkin' thinkin'. Things will get better if you dwell on the positive and not the negative.

----------

Q.      In our area bowling in the summer just about stops. I love the game and I want to get better. Wha t c an I do in the summer to keep my bowling edge?

A.      Even in those areas you should be able to find a short season summer league. If that's not enough it is a great time to take a series of lessons. You can practice almost any time you want and you don't have to worry about trying to score while you learn. It is also a good time to go through your bowling ball arsenal and really learn how each ball you have reacts. This way you can fill holes in your arsenal before the season begins. It is also a great time to purchase new equipment because it is the off-season you can find some great deals.

----------

To ask a question email sosbob@charter.net all questions will be answered directly.