Bowls Napier - C & U Ettiquette

Bowls is a friendly game – let the exercise of consideration for others, courtesy and good sportsmanship add charm to a skilful and rewarding sport. Here are a few tips which may help:

Hints for beginners (and others)

Bowls should not be dropped on the Green

Do not stand on the edges of the Green

Matches, cigarette ends etc., should be placed in the proper container, not in the ditches

Bowls should not be kicked in until the shot has been decided

After delivering a bowl a player should retire at least two meters behind the mat. He should not take up a position at or in front of the mat.

Don’t delay the game

Don’t wander around or move about the head when a player is about to deliver a bowl and particularly do not stand in line with the boundary pegs

Don’t talk in a loud tone whilst a player is about to deliver a bowl

When watching a match, always observe strict neutrality. Advice or criticism must not be given. Barracking is bad form.

All bowlers should know and understand the Laws of the Game as laid down by World Bowls

Do:

Give full support to the members of your team and Skip

Advise your opponent if unable to keep an appointment for any game

Always conform to the correct attire for play

Applaud good shots and generally encourage all players

Keep still and silent whilst your opponent and other members of the team are playing

Always watch the play. Take an interest without interfering

Play always for the side and not individual success

Don’t:

Argue with the Skip on the shot to play

Interfere with the Skip unless the position is changed

Develop mannerisms which indicate displeasure at indifferent play or success

Stray on the adjoining rink

Have excuses for bad play and readily accept praise for success

Abuse the privileges of the Club

When changing ends don’t go ahead of the player who last delivered a bowl