Bowls etiquette
Bowls is a friendly game, although some players are more competitive than others! Here are some points of etiquette that may help.
- Start and finish the game with a handshake and a smile.
- Enter and leave the green by your rink.
- On a sunny day make sure that you are not casting a shadow over the head.
- When you are waiting your turn to bowl be aware of what is going on around you. Don’t talk when someone is about to bowl and stand behind them.
- Remember that no one bowls a bad wood on purpose so encourage all team members.
- Don’t walk on adjacent rinks.
- Always stand still at the head and not directly behind the jack or in front of the rink markers.
- Greens are delicate and you can easily cause damage.
- Check that your technique is not causing marks.
- Never drop or kick bowls.
- As soon as your wood comes to rest the possession of the rink becomes the opponents.
- Wait to ask any questions until the mat is in your possession and it is your turn to bowl.
- Never criticise opponents play. Learn to accept “lucky wicks” and shots- they will balance out for and against you in the long run.
- If the bar is open it is usually the home player who asks their opponent if they would like a drink. The visitor can reciprocate later.
- If you are a spectator do not walk in front of a bowler who about to bowl. Stand still. Remember this when you enter the ground.