INNOVATIVE PLASTICS FIRM MINIATURIZES POOL BASKETBALL DESIGN TO SUIT ABOVE-GROUND SWIMMING POOLS Released: Aug. 1999 Media contact: Paul Entin at 609.397.1558; pentin@modroto.com Ashtabula, OH: To tap deeper into the heated consumer demand for residential pool basketball systems, Pool Shot Products, Inc., Ormond Beach, Fl, has introduced the Wing-It™, a new pool basketball game designed specifically for above-ground pools. A smaller, more inexpensive version of its predecessor for in-ground pools, the Wing-It portable basketball system features an oversized backboard with an innovative winged design that helps direct errant shots back into the pool. To create the new Wing-It model, Greg Graham, President of Pool Shot Products, turned to the engineers at Meese Orbitron Dunne Company (MOD), an Ashtabula, Ohio-based plastics rotomolding company. MOD, experienced with design and manufacturing on projects for Tyco Toys, Disney, Proctor and Gamble, IBM and other organizations, had been instrumental in the development of Pool Shot Products Mini-Pool Shot in-ground pool system, as well as the manufacturer's pool volleyball set. MOD's design needed to accommodate UPS shipping requirements while retaining many of the existing components. MOD changed the existing design by eliminating the bottom wing from the backboard, essential only for in-ground pools. The eight-inch, 45 degree-angled side wings were retained. The 25" x 38" backboard is supported by a two piece, 48"e; galvanized steel pole, which slides and locks into the water base and backboard at each end and was extended an additional 42=B2 to adapt for above-ground pools with no deck space. The Wing-It base was reduced in size to hold 16 gallons of water for a total weight of approximately 150 pounds when fully assembled. The new base features a low center of gravity, providing deckside portability, anti-tip stability and added safety. Molded cup holders are also included on the base to safely store beverages during basketball games. The entire backboard, support system and base are rotomolded from UV-treated linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) to eliminate potential for rust and cracking due to sunlight while assuring longevity under severe, outdoor conditions. The rugged Wing-It model is engineered to stand poolside throughout the year. A zinc-coated steel, 15-inch rim, nylon netting and vinyl basketball are included in each package. According to Mr. Graham, there are more than three million above-ground pools in the United States and since the Wing-It=B9s recent introduction, more than 1,000 units have been purchased. The Wing-It is shipped by UPS in two small cartons and retails for approximately $249.00. For more information, contact Bob Dunne; 4920 State Road; Ashtabula, OH 44005; 1-800-772-7659; (216) 998-1202; FAX (216) 992-4667.; rdunne1@usa.net; www.modroto.com.