Landing Sequence
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the landing, the airplane bounced. Following the bounce, the leaf spring on the tail wheel broke at the midpoint of its span.
Control Response
After the tailwheel leaf spring failure, the airplane began to veer to the right. The pilot applied full left rudder deflection and brake application in an attempt to correct the heading, but the airplane continued its rightward movement.
Ground Loop and Damage
The aircraft subsequently entered a ground loop. The left main landing gear collapsed during the ground loop, and the left wing sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.