The History and Buying Guide for Phillies Bowling Balls

The History of Phillies Bowling Balls

Bowling has been a popular sport and recreational activity for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt. The sport as we know it today emerged in Germany in the early 1900s, and quickly spread across Europe and North America. In the United States, bowling alleys began popping up in large numbers during the 1920s. With the rising popularity of the sport came the need for specialized bowling balls.

The AMF company (originally known as the American Machine and Foundry Company) capitalized on this growing market in the 1930s with the introduction of their now-iconic black bowling balls featuring the company's distinct white logo. AMF would go on to become the largest manufacturer of bowling balls and equipment over the next few decades.

In 1960, AMF acquired the Philadelphia-based Schwarze Rubber Company, which had been manufacturing bowling balls since the turn of the century. This led to AMF producing bowling balls under the iconic Phillies name, an obvious nod to Philadelphia's hometown baseball team, the Phillies.

The Rise of the Phillies Bowling Ball

The Phillies bowling ball made its debut in 1961, and it quickly became a top seller. The timing aligned perfectly with the golden era of bowling, as the sport was now a staple at alley's across America. The Phillies ball stood out with its vibrant red, white, and blue color scheme modeled after the Philly baseball franchise.

The Phillies ball was an early example of a polyester bowling ball. Prior to this, most bowling balls had rubber or hard plastic exteriors. The polyester coverstock allowed for a more durable ball that also gripped the lane better. The early polyester balls like the Phillies were also much lighter than previous models, which helped increase throwing speed.

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, the Phillies ball dominated lanes across the United States. AMF promoted and positioned it as their flagship model. Having a Phillies ball showed you were a serious bowler. The ball's sleek looks and undeniable performance made it a must-have for any avid bowler.

The Design Evolution

The original 1961 Phillies ball featured the blue phillies font outlined in red set against a white background. This classic look remained largely unchanged over the next decade. Minor variations included an all-blue model and a red pin stripe edition.

In the early 1970s, AMF introduced two-toned Phillies balls featuring a larger bowling pin and the signature Phillies font across the top. This "pin up" style remains one of the most recognizable looks for the Phillies ball.

Other models over the years experimented with wider color bands, stripes, and multi-colored swirl designs. Special anniversary editions celebrated milestones like the 100th and 125th years of the Phillies baseball franchise.

While surface designs varied greatly, the core technology inside the balls steadily improved over the decades. By the 1990s, Phillies balls utilized cutting-edge reactive resin coverstocks and high-tech core shapes to maximize hitting power.

The Phillies Legacy

Phillies bowling balls continued to be a staple on lanes even as ownership of the AMF bowling assets changed hands over the years. Competing brands copied design elements that made the Phillies ball so instantly recognizable.

Even as advanced bowling ball technology vastly improved over the decades, bowling enthusiasts remained loyal to the classic Phillies. Its retro styling and association with the golden era of bowling helped it maintain relevance.

AMF eventually left the bowling business after filing bankruptcy in 2001. Ebonite International has since acquired the rights to produce Phillies branded bowling balls.

Today, Phillies bowling balls are viewed with nostalgic reverence by lifetime bowlers. Modern Phillies ball releases pay homage to classic designs of the past. Special vintage balls still pop up at bowling alleys and collectors' homes.

The Phillies ball remains an indelible symbol of American bowling culture. For over 60 years and counting, the iconic ball named after Philadelphia's baseball franchise has been bowling over pins, competitors, and fans.

Buying Your First Phillies Bowling Ball

Purchasing your first serious bowling ball is an exciting milestone for any bowler. The Phillies ball, with its classic styling and proven performance, is a top choice for first-time buyers. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting your first Phillies ball:

Weight

Phillies balls are available in weights ranging from 6 to 16 pounds. The right weight depends on your strength, throwing style, and personal preference. Most adult men use 14-16 pound balls, women typically use 12-14 pounds. Beginners should start on the lighter end until their bowling muscles develop.

Coverstock

Phillies balls come in polyester, urethane, resin, and particle coverstock options. Polyester balls like the Retro and Showtime are affordable baseline models. Upper-tier choices like the Rubicon UC-3 feature resin coverstocks for more hook potential.

Core Shape

Entry-level Phillies balls utilize a basic pancake core shape for straight shots. Advanced options like the Fusion Core offer aggressive movements for hardcore bowlers. Matching coverstock shape to your skill level optimizes performance.

Colors

The trademark Phillies style shines through on every ball design. Pick your favorites from classic single colors, two-tones, confetti styles, retro pin graphics, and more. Stand out from the crowd with unique color combinations.

Personal Fit

Having your personal measurements taken for finger hole sizing creates an ideal custom fit. This improves comfort, control, and accuracy. Pro shops offer fitting and drilling services to get your new Phillies ball game-ready.

Budget

Phillies bowling balls range from affordable basics around $50 to high-performance models approaching $200. Set a budget that fits your skill level. You can always upgrade to more advanced gear as you improve.

With the right selection criteria and some pro shop guidance, you're sure to strike bowling gold with your first Phillies ball. Just like the pros, you'll be bowling in style and optimized performance.

Maintaining Your Phillies Bowling Ball

Taking proper care of your Phillies bowling ball ensures it rolls true for many seasons. Here are some key maintenance tips to get the most life out of your Phillies ball:

Clean the Coverstock

Wipe down the ball with a microfiber towel before and after uses. For deeper cleaning, use a ball cleaner solution. This removes built-up lane oil and residue.

Polish when Needed

As the ball's surface wears, polish brings back the factory finish luster. Use a buffing pad and polishing compound to renew gloss and mid-lane traction.

Check Oil Absorption

After many games, coverstock oil absorption can decline. Restore tackiness with a deep cleanser or abralon pad rough-up when the ball seems too slick.

Plug and Redrill

Enlarge finger holes and adjust palm pitch by having the ball plugged and redrilled. A pro shop can modify fit over time as your release evolves.

Check Balance

Off-balance rolling can lead to uneven wear and reduced striking power. Confirm even weight distribution by testing ball balance.

Address Crack Damage

Heat welding can repair minor exterior cracks. But significant chunking or cracking requires filling and redrilling to retain ball integrity.

Rotate Multiple Balls

Using the same ball every game causes uneven wear patterns. Rotating between a few Phillies balls helps maintain freshness.

With some basic care and maintenance, your Phillies ball will provide quality strikes for many bowling seasons. Treat it right so you can reap the benefits game after game.

Collecting Vintage Phillies Bowling Balls

For die-hard Phillies fans and bowling history buffs, collecting vintage Phillies bowling balls is a nostalgic hobby. Here are some tips for locating rare vintage gems:

Check Collection Sites

Websites like eBay and specialty collector forums often list vintage balls for sale. Be prepared to pay premium pricing for rare, old stock models.

Contact Pro Shops

Long-running, old school bowling alleys may have new old stock or used vintage Phillies balls in storage they are willing to part with.

Attend Collector Events

Bowling conventions and collector swap meets provide opportunities to network with fellow Phillies enthusiasts who may sell or trade.

Search Local Listings

Check classifieds, thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets for leads on abandoned collections containing potential vintage finds.

Join Collector Groups

Connecting with online or regional collector clubs provides news on upcoming events, private sales, bulk deals, and more.

Inspect Condition

Closely examine any potential purchase for damage compromising value. Original boxes and accessories raise resale potential.

Verify Authenticity

Research how to authenticate logos, graphics, materials, and serial numbers to avoid spending on counterfeit balls.

With persistence and savvy sourcing skills, vintage bowling ball collectors can amass an impressive showcase of rare Phillies balls encapsulating the sport's rich history.

FAQs

What types of coverstock are used on Phillies bowling balls?

Phillies balls are available with polyester, urethane, resin, and particle coverstock materials. Polyester is the most affordable and baseline option. Advanced resin coverstocks offer greater hook potential for experienced bowlers.

Where can I buy vintage or collectible Phillies bowling balls?

Your best sources for collectible vintage Phillies balls include websites like eBay, bowling collector forums, pro shops at old bowling alleys, collector conventions and swap meets, local classifieds and garage sales.

How much do Phillies bowling balls cost?

New Phillies bowling balls range from about $50 for basic polyester models up to around $200 for high-end balls with advanced materials and technology. Vintage collectible balls often sell for a premium.

How often should I clean my Phillies bowling ball?

It's recommended to wipe down your Phillies ball with a microfiber towel before and after each use to maintain performance. Use a bowling ball cleaner every few weeks for deeper cleaning of oil and lane residue buildup.

Can cracked Phillies bowling balls be repaired?

Yes, minor exterior cracks can often be repaired via heat welding. However, significant cracking and chunking damages may require structural filling and redrilling to retain ball integrity.