Bowls Etiquette
Bowls Etiquette and Rules
Lawn bowls is a wonderful competitive sport, but it's also a game built on centuries of tradition and sportsmanship. While the official rules tell you how to play, it's the unwritten rules—the etiquette—that show you how to be a bowler.
These aren't complicated regulations designed to catch you out. They are simple courtesies that ensure the game is enjoyable, fair, and respectful for everyone on the green. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned player, a quick refresher on good etiquette is always worthwhile. It’s the oil that keeps the machinery of a friendly and competitive club running smoothly!
Before the Game Begins: Good sportsmanship starts before the first bowl is even rolled. Therefore:
Be on Time: Arrive at the club in plenty of time to change your shoes, get your bowls, and be ready for the start of the game. It shows respect for your teammates and opponents.
Help Set Up: Mats, Pushers & Scoreboards need to be put out, offer a hand, many hands make light work!
Tools of the trade: Ensure within your block you have a scorecard, a measure, and some chalk, ensure everyone knows what they are doing.
The Handshake: Always start a game by shaking hands with your opponents and introducing yourself if you don't know them. It sets a friendly tone for the match ahead.
Placing the Mat: The player to cast the first Bowl at the start of a match will place the front of the mat no more than 2 metres from the edge of the Green (white marker indicator). On subsequent ends the mat can be moved and placed between 2m and 25m further up the centre of the green
On the Mat: The Zone of Silence: The mat is where a player's concentration is at its peak. Your behaviour can either help or hinder them.
Stillness and Silence: When a player is on the mat preparing to deliver their bowl, you must stand still and remain silent. No chatting, no rustling your waterproofs, and definitely no walking about.
Give Them a Clear View: Stand well back from the mat and ensure you are not blocking the player's view of the rink markers or their aiming line. Position yourself behind the player, never in front of them or directly in their eye line at the other end.
Rink Awareness:
Respecting the Space: A bowling green is a shared space. Being aware of your surroundings is crucial for safety and courtesy.
Stay Within Your Rink: Keep to the confines of your own rink as much as possible. Do not cut across another rink where a game is in progress.
Walk With Care: When changing ends, walk down the centre of your rink. This avoids distracting players on neighbouring rinks.
Behind the Head or Mat: At the head end, players who have already bowled should stand well behind the jack and out of the line of sight of the player on the mat. Similarly, at the mat end, players waiting to bowl should stand behind the mat.
The Flow of the Game
Casting Your Bowls: As soon as each of your bowl has come to rest, step off the mat to the left as quickly as possible ready for the next player.
Marking Touchers: When a bowl touches the jack during its original course, it becomes a "toucher." And should be chalked if the rules dictate.
Mark It Promptly: If you're at the head, it's your responsibility to mark it with chalk or spray before the next bowl comes to rest. Be quick but be careful!
The Art of Measuring: When an end is finished, and it's too close to call with the naked eye, it's time to measure. This is a moment for calm and precision.
Who Measures: In a team game, the "number two" from each team is typically responsible for measuring. In pairs or singles, the players agree.
Don't Crowd the Head: Only the designated measurers should be in the head. Everyone else should stand back and give them space to work.
Agree the Shot: The measurers should agree on the result before touching any bowls. If there is a dispute, don't argue! Call for an umpire or a neutral third party to make the final decision.
Pace of Play: Nobody enjoys a slow game. Good etiquette means being ready to play when it's your turn.
Be Ready: Have your bowl in your hand and be thinking about your shot while your opponent is on the mat. As soon as their bowl comes to rest, you should be ready to step up.
Sportsmanship:
The Heart of the Game: This is the most important rule of all. How you conduct yourself defines you as a player.
Praise Good Shots: Always be ready to acknowledge a great shot, whether it's from your teammate or your opponent. A simple "good bowl" is all it takes. Civility costs nothing
Accept Defeat and Victory Gracefully: At the end of the game, shake hands warmly, win or lose. Thank your opponents for the game. Congratulate the winners and commiserate graciously if you've lost.
Welcome Newcomers: If you see a new member or a beginner struggling, offer a word of encouragement. We were all beginners once, and a friendly welcome can make all the difference.
In the Pavilion: The game doesn't end on the green. The social side is just as important.
Offer a Drink: Refreshments are for everyone plus it’s a gesture of friendship that transcends the result.
Football Cards: Promote any fund raising cards (Football Cards 505/50 cards or Raffle tickets) to visiting players.
Dress Code: Be aware of your club's dress code.
By following these simple, unwritten rules, you contribute to the fantastic spirit of our sport. You show respect for the game, the club, and your fellow players.