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Attack of the Bowling Balls! Scary!!!

Who said bowling balls were boring?  The NCAA allows for normal wear and tear, but make sure to include a serial number before you roll the first ball.

Rule 2
Player Equipment

Section 2.1. Bowling Balls for Competition 2.1.1. Bowling Ball – Approval
Bowling balls used in NCAA competition shall:
a. Meet the equipment specification at time of manufacture for public use.
b. Meet the minimum or maximum specifications for weight, size, markings, logos, holes, balance, surface preparation, and surface hardness prior to the scoring of any competition.

2.1.2. Bowling Ball – Weight, Size, Markings and Holes
The circumference of a ball shall not be more than 27 inches, nor shall it weigh more than 16 pounds. The height of the ball shall not exceed 8.59 inches. The diameter of the ball must be constant. The surface of a ball must be free of all depressions or grooves of specific pattern, except for holes or indentations used for gripping the ball and incidental chipping or marring caused by wear. Any bowling ball used in NCAA competition must be identifiable as an approved bowling ball according to industry standards. Manufacturer identification labels (logos) are also required. Additionally, for identification purposes, each ball must have some form of serial number (engraved or re-engraved by the player) legible on the bowling ball at all times.

The following limitations govern drilling holes in a ball:
a. Holes or indentions, not to exceed five, for gripping purposes.
b. One hole for balance purposes, not to exceed 1 1⁄4 inch in diameter.
c. One vent hole to each finger and/or thumb hole, not to exceed 1⁄4 inch in diameter.

2.1.3. Bowling Ball – Balance
After drilling, the following tolerances are allowed in the balance of the ball:
a. For a ball weighing 10 pounds or more:
i. Not more than three ounces difference between the top of the ball (finger hole side) and the bottom (solid side opposite finger holes).
ii. Not more than one ounce difference between the sides to the right and left of the finger holes, or between the sides in front and back of the finger holes.

b. For a ball weighing less than 10 pounds:

  1. Not more than 3⁄4 ounce difference between the top of the ball and the bottom.
  2. Not more than 3⁄4 ounce difference between the sides to the right and left, or between the front and back of the finger holes.

2.1.4. Bowling Ball – Surface Hardness

  1. The surface hardness of a ball shall be not less than 72 on the Durometer Scale. The use of chemicals, solvents or other methods to change the surface hardness of the ball, is prohibited.

References:
NCAA Bowling Rules and Interpretations- http://www.netitor.com/photos/schools/famu/genrel/auto_pdf/2007_NCAA_Bowling_Rules.pdf
Photo – en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowling_ball

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About Sports Balls

Sports Balls is a group of sports enthusiasts interested in the official specifications of balls used as sports equipment. As hobbyists, we are continually amazed at the level of detail used to accomplish fair play.

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