The Case Of The Shrinking Ball
Sun Herald
Sunday April 6, 2008
COLLINGWOOD goalkicking legend Peter Daicos says the footy is smaller than when he played and manufacturer Sherrin says there is some truth in his comments.
Daicos says the game is faster, not just because of the extra rotations and the greater athleticism, but also because of the ball. "I will go up against anyone that wants to argue the point with me that the balls are definitely smaller," said Daicos, who kicked 549 goals for the Pies between 1979 and 1993. "You only have to see the way they bounce and have a look at them in the hands of the players. Maybe not in length, but in circumference. They're kicking a long way with a smaller object, because there's less resistance once the thing gets into the air."Sherrin admits he has a point - not due to any change in specifications, but because in the past the balls swelled due to moisture at the grounds, which are now far better drained.
© 2008 Sun Herald
