Bowls Etiquette

Etiquette

Etiquette is about the customs and rules that govern social interaction

for bowlers. It is also about behaviour on the green and in and around

the club.

Before the game

On tournament and club days, try to arrive early enough to assist with

preparation of play (scrims, scoreboards, mats, jacks, etc.)

Be on time for the start of play and for the start of each game
When playing at home and as hosts make the visiting players feel

welcome

First names are used on the scoreboard, club names if playing a

visiting team

Bowlers tend to start and finish a game with a handshake

During the game

Hand the jack to the opposing lead when he/she has placed the mat and have their first bowl ready. This friendly gesture sets the tone for the game.
When ready to bowl check with the next rink to see if another player is ready to bowl, so that you don't bowl at the same time
All players should have their next bowl in their hand by the time the opposing player has delivered their bowl, especially in a time limit game
Make sure that the path of the bowl is clear to avoid hitting another bowl on a neighbouring rink
Stand well behind the mat and refrain from talking when another player is about to deliver a bowl
Your opponent has possession of the rink as soon as your bowl comes to rest, do not linger on the mat or head and thereby obstruct the next player’s opportunity to prepare to bowl
Do not pass or walk in front of the player who was last to play - they need the opportunity to see how their bowl progresses
It is a courtesy for the “Three” or middle player of the team who has won the previous end to place his/her skip’s bowl on the mat before joining the other players at change over
Walk quickly and within the confines of the rink you are playing on when changing ends and refrain from prolonged discussions in the middle of the rink
Warn players on adjoining rinks if a drive is about to be played and be ready to try and stop any bowls going into other rinks and disturbing their heads
Leads and twos should remain behind the head or mat when not in possession of the rink and should not crowd the head or offer advice when bowls in contention are being measured – this is the job of the Three (or middle person)
No bowls should be touched or moved until the end is declared and then help return the bowls to behind the mat
Help clear the head after the result has been determined
Take an interest in the game, follow how the head is building up
Congratulate an opponent on a well-played bowl
Avoid walking around talking to bowlers participating in other games, allow them to concentrate on their own game
Show a good spirit - win well and lose well

And above all, enjoy yourself