When attempting to land on an aircraft carrier, a naval pilot will communicate with the Landing Signal Officer their side number, aircraft type, their distance behind the ship and “call the ball.” This signals to the ship they have a visual on the optical landing system to the side of the landing strip nicknamed the “meatball.” To confirm, the LSO will then reply “roger ball” and give the pilot the winds and deck state.
This year’s exclusive game ball by Team Issue features the silhouette of an F/A-18 Super Hornet, the US Military Roundel and color scheme, as well as an intricate stitching design around the laces.
*Due to the handling process of natural, authentic leather, footballs may vary in color from the images shown.