New Player’s Guide to Lawn Bowls
1. Welcome
Welcome to Victoria Saints Bowls Club. As a new member, you are joining a friendly and inclusive community committed to the enjoyment, development, and promotion of lawn bowls. This guide is designed to help you understand the basics of the game, learn the rules and etiquette, and feel confident as you take to the green.
2. What is Lawn Bowls?
Lawn bowls is a precision sport played on a rectangular, manicured grass or synthetic surface known as a green. The aim is to roll biased balls (called bowls) so they stop as close as possible to a smaller white ball called the jack.
It is a social and competitive sport, suitable for all ages and abilities. Lawn bowls in Wales is governed by Welsh Lawn Bowls and internationally by World Bowls.
3. Basic Equipment
- Bowls: Four per player, biased to curve during travel.
- Jack: A small white target ball.
- Mat: Players deliver their bowls from this mat.
- Shoes & Attire: Flat-soled shoes are mandatory; club attire required for matches.
- Measuring Equipment: Used to measure closest bowls.
Note: The club provides starter equipment for new players.
4. The Playing Area
Rink: A defined lane within the green (approx. 4.3–5.8m wide).
Ends: One direction of play; a game consists of multiple ends.
5. Objective of the Game
Roll your bowls closer to the jack than your opponent. Points (called shots) are awarded for each of your bowls that is closer to the jack than the nearest opponent's bowl.
6. Types of Games
- Singles: 1 vs 1, first to 21 shots or a fixed number of ends.
- Pairs: 2 players per team, 4 bowls each.
- Triples: 3 players per team, 3 bowls each.
- Fours (Rinks): 4 players per team, 2 bowls each.
Victoria Saints runs fixtures and competitions in all formats.
7. Basic Rules
- Toss a coin to start the game.
- Lead player rolls the jack and centres it.
- Players take turns to deliver their bowls.
- Scoring occurs after all bowls are delivered.
- Highest scoring team after the agreed ends wins.
Refer to the official World Bowls Laws for detailed rules.
8. Etiquette and Conduct
- Be punctual and wear correct attire.
- Shake hands before and after play.
- Remain quiet and still during deliveries.
- Do not walk across other rinks.
- Respect good play from all sides.
- Use equipment properly; avoid damaging the green.
9. Club Culture and Expectations
Victoria Saints Bowls Club is built on community spirit and enjoyment of the game. Coaching, social bowls, and friendly competitions are held regularly. Members are encouraged to get involved and support the club’s activities and upkeep.
10. Getting Started
- Book a taster session with the club secretary.
- Borrow club equipment if needed.
- Join a coaching session to learn the basics.
- Practice regularly during roll-up sessions.
- Enter into social or league matches as confidence grows.
11. Safety and Accessibility
Lawn bowls is accessible to all. Adaptations are available, including wheelchair support, bowling arms, and coaching for differing abilities. Contact a club official for assistance.
12. Glossary
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| End | One complete round of play in one direction. |
| Bias | The inbuilt weight causing a bowl to curve. |
| Jack High | A bowl that finishes level with the jack. |
| Toucher | A bowl that touches the jack; marked with chalk. |
| Dead End | An invalid end; replayed if the jack goes out of bounds. |
| Head | The cluster of bowls around the jack. |
13. Further Resources
14. Contact Information
- Club Secretary: Rowley Thomas
- Email: rowlandthomas12345@gmail.com
- Phone: 01792 402566
- Address: Victoria Park, Francis Street, Swansea, SA1 1LY
15. Final Note
Lawn bowls is a game of precision, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. Whether you play casually or competitively, Victoria Saints Bowls Club is here to support your journey and make your experience rewarding. We look forward to seeing you on the green!