FOOTBALL, E.G. FOR RUGBY

摘要

In order to improve the ballistic properties of a football, typically a rugby football, a relatively massive inflation valve assembly (4) is provided on the inflatable bladder (6). The assembly (4) may incorporate metal or plastic weights (W1, W2, W3) and/or a dense textile mat (9) to provide additional weight. A channel (8) extends along the outer surface of the assembly (4) and into which the inturned sewn sides of adjacent cover panels may seat so the valve nipple (5) can project through the seam of the ball. Providing the massive and heavy valve assembly in the seam of the ball in this way improves the flight when kicked at a point opposite the valve and on the opposed seam.