Guest Author - Gary King

I decided to come up with a change of pace for this bowling article and asked myself what would be a good change of pace? And one way I think I can do that is to focus on trying to help those people who are sort of set in their ways and are resisting making some changes.

I have found a large number of league bowlers, especially seniors, who have older bowling balls they have been using for a long time, and for one reason or another, or a combination of reasons, they do not want to change and will not change and get any other ball. I can understand their reasoning behind this, but I cannot seem to get them to understand that a new or different ball might make all the world in the difference in their scores and their game. They are set in their ways and they absolutely do not want to change any of their equipment.

They have used the ball they are using forever! It worked then and it is working now, so why change it. And I really believe that deep in their heart they are not convinced that a new ball will make that much difference. I have tried to explain to them that the newer equipment is designed to help take out the pins better and will actually help increase scores.

We all know that the old cars, like the Model T, have been improved on and they made things better for us in the long run. But people with older bowling equipment, who have used the same ball for many, many years, have not yet come to the realization of how improved the newer equipment is and how it can help them improve their game. After all, that old ball has been doing what it was intended on doing for years, it fits well, and besides, you like it. So why upset the applecart?

I have watched many league bowlers who would, in my opinion, have averages that are ten to fifteen pins higher or more than they have now, if they had better equipment. The new bowling balls are more effective on the current lane conditions to take out the current bowling pins, than the older equipment is. And those who do want to use and keep using their old equipment may not realize or been told what a difference resurfacing their ball could make.

You NEED to overcome your resistance to change and your love for your old bowling ball enough to give a new one a try. And do it from an experienced bowling pro shop and ball driller who knows what he or she is doing. You will probably not believe or buy what I am saying here, but believe me, you will not regret it if you either have your current ball resurfaced, or you buy another ball. Find a pro shop near you and have a talk with a ball driller. Explain to him or her how you roll the ball and tell him or her what you want the ball to do. And then BUY another ball.

The bottom line is that we all need to take the time to perhaps listen and to try new things. You probably do not believe or are convinced that new equipment can improve your game, but it is fact! Try it and you will be amazed at the difference in your game.