In early February,the USAPA decided to extend the implementation of rule changes to ball specifications after hearing from some ball manufacturers, sellers and players that the six-month notice from November 1, 2015 to May 1, 2016 was too short. In reconsidering its original timetable the Board concluded that more time would be needed to allow manufacturers and dealers to reduce their inventories and also to allow players sufficient time to become accustomed to any new balls before they are used in tournaments. Because of these considerations, the new effective date of the ball specification rules has been moved to October 1st.
Between now and October 1, any approved ball can be used for sanctioned tournament play. Many of the present balls that will not meet the new specifications will be replaced with new balls that conform to the new rules. These new conforming balls will need to be identified with different model numbers or model names. The Board anticipates and expects that by April or May most of the manufacturers will make their replacement balls available for sale in the marketplace and give all players time to purchase and practice with them before they are used in many tournaments.
Between now and October 1, any approved ball can be used for sanctioned tournament play. Many of the present balls that will not meet the new specifications will be replaced with new balls that conform to the new rules. These new conforming balls will need to be identified with different model numbers or model names. The Board anticipates and expects that by April or May most of the manufacturers will make their replacement balls available for sale in the marketplace and give all players time to purchase and practice with them before they are used in many tournaments.
