PBA newRule on plugged balls for 2023

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radialfil
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PBA newRule on plugged balls for 2023

Post by radialfil »

I was wondering about this new edict on plugged balls being banned for competition in 2023. My question is regarding the use of urethane slugs and wether that would constitute a plugged ball. If they are permitted to be used, then I think that is the only way to modify pitch and minor span changes. Does anyone have any insight on this development and what the limitations might be with slugged vs plugged bowling balls.
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Re: PBA newRule on plugged balls for 2023

Post by 44boyd »

No mention of slugs, just no plugged balls
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Re: PBA newRule on plugged balls for 2023

Post by bmens84 »

If i were to guess it would revert back to the way it was prior to 2000. Being able to use ball plug in a PBA event is newish, persay. Back in the day you could have an offset slug, but i believe you had to be 3/4 in the slug for it to be permitted.
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Re: PBA newRule on plugged balls for 2023

Post by walterp »

11.6.3 Plugs and Designs Material must be made of material like, although not the same as, the original material out of which the ball was made. Plugs and designs must comply with other specifications of a bowling ball.
NOTE: Beginning on January 1, 2023, plugged bowling balls will not be allowed in any PBA National Tour competition.

It appears the rule is intended for the National tour, not for regionals, pba 50 regionals and pba 50 tour stops
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Re: PBA newRule on plugged balls for 2023

Post by weberd72 »

I believe they softened the rule in the current published PBA rulebook to allow plug for regional competition. I noticed this a few weeks ago when I downloaded another copy. Here's how the copy I downloaded in January read:

11.6.3 Plugs and Designs Material must be made of material like, although not the same as, the original material out of which the ball was made. Plugs and designs must comply with other specifications of a bowling ball.
NOTE: Beginning on January 1, 2023, plugged bowling balls will not be allowed in any PBA competition.

I'm sure there will be a new 2023 rule book in January that will clarify this to state a clear rule without the 2023 notes. I see softening the rule as good news for regional bowlers who don't have access to the same amount of equipment as national members have.

As stated by @bmens84, not allowing ball plug is not a new PBA revelation. I bowled in a few regionals back in that time and concur that ball plug was not allowed.
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