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Michael came out on tour as raw
power with one of the most unique games I have witnessed. I have
seen the speed/rev ratio Michael has many times. But I have
never seen it with axis measurements of 3 1/2 inches over and 1
1/2 inches up. Don't confuse that with a spinner. His track
circumference is up with all the other power players. Another
thing that separates Michael from most of the other "Strappers".
Most power players live and die with the unique power they feel
is their strength. I have been very impressed with Michael's
willingness to learn and adapt his game to the tour environment.
Through the years players come out on tour and spend the first
two to five years banging their heads against the wall, not
understanding why they are getting beat by bowlers half as
talented (in their mind. There is no way to avoid the process.
Bowlers come out on tour thinking they are good enough to
compete and you have to maintain as much confidence as you can
through the learning process. You must trust your instincts and
believe in what you have learned through the years. Once you
have tried everything your instincts have taught you it is time
to go to work.
Michael's decision to turn pro came
at a very challenging time. He was not going to be afforded the
two to five years of beating his head against the wall. The PBA
was going to an all exempt tour.
Not a good situation to be
in. The decision to only give 50 bowlers exempt status was going
to be a tough challenge for seasoned veterans...let alone a kid.
Michael would be bowling against competition that was bowling
professionally when all Michael knew was that slick stuff on the
lane was nasty when it got on your diaper. Hugh Miller had 2
titles and Tom Baker was awarded the Steve Nagy award the year
Michael was born. Norm Duke joined the tour when Michael was 2
years old and had his first title when Michael was 3. There are
18 players on the exempt tour that had already competed on the
PBA tour before Michael entered Kindergarten.
Yes Michael is still learning, but
he has taught many a lesson in the process.
Michael's Grip
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