Lawn Bowls Etiquette: A Guide to Good Sportsmanship on the Green
Lawn bowls is a sport that prides itself on tradition, camaraderie, and respect. While mastering the technical aspects of the game is important, understanding and adhering to the etiquette of lawn bowls is just as crucial. Good etiquette not only ensures a pleasant experience for everyone on the green but also upholds the integrity and spirit of the game. Whether you’re new to lawn bowls or a seasoned player, here’s a guide to the common etiquette that every bowler should follow.
1. Respect the Playing Surface
The green is the heart of lawn bowls, and maintaining its condition is paramount.
- Walk Carefully: Always walk carefully on the green to avoid causing damage. Avoid running, dragging your feet, or throwing bowls aggressively.
- Repair Divots: If your bowl or foot causes any noticeable damage, make an effort to repair it. Most clubs provide tools or guidelines on how to do this properly.
- Keep the Green Clean: Ensure that no foreign objects, such as drink bottles, wrappers, or personal belongings, are left on the green.
2. Maintain Silence During Play
Concentration is key in lawn bowls, and players need a quiet environment to focus.
- Quiet During Delivery: It’s considered polite to remain silent when someone is delivering their bowl. Conversations, jokes, and other distractions should be kept to a minimum.
- No Distractions: Avoid any sudden movements or noises that might distract a player while they are about to bowl. If you’re on the sideline, stay still and quiet until the delivery is complete.
3. Positioning on the Rink
Where you stand on the rink can impact not only your game but also your opponent’s.
- Stand Behind the Mat: When not delivering a bowl, stand at least one meter behind the mat. This allows the current player to focus without feeling crowded.
- Stay Off the Rink: If you’re not actively involved in the play, step off the rink to avoid obstructing other players.
- Avoid Blocking the View: Be mindful of where you stand in relation to the jack and the players on the opposing side. Ensure that your position does not block anyone’s view of the jack or the line of play.
4. Respect Your Opponents and Teammates
Lawn bowls is a game of sportsmanship, where respect for others is crucial.
- Congratulate Good Shots: Acknowledge and compliment your opponent or teammate on a well-played shot, regardless of the situation. This fosters a positive atmosphere and mutual respect.
- Accept Outcomes Gracefully: Whether you win or lose, accept the result with good grace. Avoid displays of frustration, gloating, or blaming others.
- Handshakes and Thanks: At the end of a game, it’s customary to shake hands with your opponents and teammates, thanking them for the game. This simple gesture reinforces the friendly nature of the sport.
5. Be Punctual and Prepared
Timeliness and readiness are signs of respect towards your fellow players.
- Arrive on Time: Always arrive at the green well before your scheduled game or practice. This allows for proper warm-up and any pre-game discussions with your team.
- Have Your Equipment Ready: Ensure that your bowls, shoes, and other necessary gear are ready before the game begins. This helps the game start smoothly and on time.
6. Measuring Disputes
Occasionally, there will be a need to measure bowls to determine which is closest to the jack.
- Agree on a Measurement: If there’s any doubt about which bowl is closer, agree with your opponent to measure the distance. Use an official measuring device to ensure accuracy.
- Be Impartial: When measuring, remain impartial and accept the result without argument. If in doubt, consult an umpire to make the final call.
7. Dress Code and Appearance
Adhering to the club’s dress code is an important aspect of lawn bowls etiquette.
- Follow the Dress Code: Most clubs have a specific dress code, often requiring players to wear white or club colors. Ensure that your attire is clean, neat, and in line with the club’s guidelines.
- Proper Footwear: Wear flat-soled shoes that won’t damage the green. These are essential for both safety and preserving the playing surface.
8. Help with Setup and Cleanup
Contributing to the preparation and maintenance of the playing area is a shared responsibility.
- Assist with Setup: If you’re one of the first to arrive, offer to help set up the equipment, such as mats, jacks, and scoreboards.
- Cleanup After Play: At the end of the game, help with tidying up the rink. This includes collecting the equipment, tidying up the surroundings, and ensuring the green is left in good condition for the next group.
9. Respect the Umpire
Umpires play a crucial role in ensuring the game runs smoothly and fairly.
- Listen to the Umpire: If an umpire is called upon to make a decision, respect their ruling. Avoid arguing or questioning their judgment.
- Call for the Umpire When Needed: If there’s a dispute or uncertainty that cannot be resolved between players, don’t hesitate to call for the umpire. Their role is to ensure fair play.
Conclusion
Lawn bowls is more than just a game; it’s a community built on mutual respect, tradition, and enjoyment. By following these etiquette guidelines, you’ll not only improve your own experience on the green but also contribute to a positive and welcoming environment for everyone involved. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, practicing good etiquette ensures that lawn bowls remains the enjoyable and rewarding sport that it has been for generations.
Happy bowling!