In a method and related system of the invention, each golf ball component is progressed while being coated, without contacting another surface until after curing, and without the margin for error created in prior systems/methods using physical or air stream up-take supports. In one embodiment, a method of the invention comprises the steps of: progressing a golf ball component within an enclosed chamber for a controlled duration of time; at least partially covering the golf ball component with a coating material while the ball is progressed within the enclosed chamber; and at least partially curing the coating material on golf ball component in the chamber. The golf ball component may be in a state of free fall while progressed within the enclosed chamber, and in some embodiments, also during the step of curing the coating material on the golf ball component.