Lawn Bowling Etiquette and Basics
Lawn bowling etiquette emphasizes quiet focus, respect for the green and opponents, and good sportsmanship.
Etiquette is an important part of lawn bowls. Stand still and silent when others bowl. Don't drop your bowls, make noise, or comment on shots (even opponents'). Avoid criticism, and keep to your own rink, always showing respect for the game's flow and facility. Be punctual for all games is a courtesy to the other players.
Basic Rules
1. When it's your team's turn to bowl it's your mat and head. Your opponents should be away from both, if they are not ask them nicely to move. 2. Wait for the skip to tell you which shot you should play, keep up with play at all times. 3. Walk up the center of the rink with minimum delay. Do not stop to chat in the middle of the rink, it's not your mat or head. 4. After bowling each bowl, step off the mat to the right. As you approach the mat to bowl, do so from the rear left. Though not essential, this is a useful habit of convenience to avoid collisions. 5. Avoid delaying play by leaving the rink without the knowledge of the other players. 6. Avoid interfering with the head until the results of the end have been agreed upon by the vices. If an Umpire is called, move away. You're done, his/her decision is final.
Delivery
•FOOT PLACEMENT: When you’re ready to send that bowl gliding across the green, make sure you have at least one foot on the mat. Upon releasing the bowl, keep one foot either on the mat or above its surface. It’s like a little dance move with your feet and the mat! •THE ART OF CURVING: Now, let’s talk curves! If you’re right-handed... Forehand: Use the bias of the bowl to curve it to the left. Imagine guiding it like a gentle arc. Backhand: For a right-to-left curve, release the bowl with finesse. Left-handed players, just flip those terms around! •SMOOTH RELEASE: Deliver the bowl underarm, aiming for a clean and silky-smooth release. Picture it: your bowl gliding effortlessly, like a swan on a serene pond. Remember, it’s all about finding that sweet spot—the right weight, the perfect line, and a touch of finesse. Happy bowling!
