14 DAY TRIAL // The Super Bowl XLIII finished unexpectedly and in the cheers of the crowd, with an unforeseen turn of events just seconds before the end of the game. Sharp and well coordinated plays eventually won the Pittsburgh Steelers their sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy, to the disappointment of the Arizona Cardinals, who lost with a score of 23 to 27. Sports critics agree that the show was grand, and that it was only through the dedication and the focus of the major players that this achievement was possible. However, many wonder how throwing the 14–15-ounce (397–425 gram-) ball can at times be so accurate and precise, while on other occasions it simply seems to fly on its own.
Experts reveal that the grip is one of the most fundamental aspects of a decent pass. Most players say that they use a “U”-type of grip, with their hands placed as tightly around the ball as possible. Their fingers touch the laces, while the thumb rests on the seams on the other side. Those with really big hands argue, however, that they prefer holding the ball with both hands, with their thumbs facing them, while their pinkies are placed towards the end of the ball.
This type of grip is meant to give them more stability and more control over the trajectory of the ball, and they point out that holding it in this manner is very reassuring. However, when it comes to actually throwing it, things get a bit complicated. The ball is usually held not from the middle area, but from a little bit behind its center. The throwing arm is cocked backwards, with the point furthest away from the hand orientated in the direction in which the player wants to throw the ball. The other arm is stretched forward, for balance and an added sense of direction.
The actual pitch is the most important part of the pass. The ball has to be released when it reaches a position slightly above the head, and the movement of the wrist has to be complemented by a snap in the elbow, shoulder, and hip, as the body turns from the side to the front, in the direction of the throw. The spinning effect is achieved by releasing the grip of the thumb before the final release, and slightly tilting the other fingers. If this is done correctly, then the ball will travel faster and further than in the case of a regular throw.
Obtaining the perfect balance between these elements is no easy task, as proven by the fact that only truly professional players can do it under pressure, with thousands of fans around and millions watching them from their homes. However, the satisfaction of winning the Super Bowl and the Vince Lombardi Trophy cannot be easily equalized.