Olympic Tech: Volleyballs.

Mikasa has introduced a new volleyball for the Olympics. This reminds me of the Adidas soccer ball that was the "official ball" of the World Cup Soccer Tournament not too long ago. It seems that the International Volleyball Federation(FIVB) loved this new ball so much they named it as the Exclusive FIVB Game Ball and official indoor game ball of the 2008 Olympics.

Here's what Mikasa highlights about the ball's design:

• New 8 Panel swirl design - The elimination of some panel seams allows for more contact area on the surface of the ball improving passing and control. Allows for greater accuracy and better feel.
• Unique dimpled microfiber material - The dimples create turbulence & cut down on resistance as the ball cuts through the air.This lack of resistance allows the ball to fly truer through the air and allows you to be more creative with your serves and spikes.
• Cemented panel seams - Cementing only the seams of the ball allows air in between the cover and carcass. This gives the ball a softer feel without losing any of its explosiveness.
• Blue and Yellow color - The human eye picks up these two colors faster than any others,allowing for quicker reactions and better touches.

Yellow and blue, huh? I'll have to remember that - for what, I'm not sure. Yeah, pretty sure Joe Blow can go out and buy this one too... you know, for "peppering" the ball around the yard with your little sib.

[note: I've seen yellow and blue on the outdoor/beach volleyball and the waterpolo ball. Seems like Mikasa aren't the only folks in the know about the yellow & blue color scheme]