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Bowls Etiquette

Printable version: Bowls Etiquette (PDF)

Bowls etiquette is different from the Laws of Bowls but having a good understanding of the etiquette of bowls is just as important to the new (whether novice, social or barefoot) bowler enjoying the game, as is a good knowledge of the laws of the game.

So, what is bowls etiquette?

Etiquette applies to attire, politeness, respect and general behaviour in and around the green and during play. Good etiquette provides a welcoming atmosphere for the enjoyment of everyone playing the game.

Tips for good bowls etiquette

  1. Be punctual and always welcome visitors.
  2. Introduce yourself to your opponents at the start of play.
  3. Be polite and friendly to your opponents and refrain from using language that could cause offense. Be mindful of the age and nature of those around you.
  4. Respect the laws of the game and the role of the volunteers and officials.
  5. When at the mat end and not delivering a bowl, stand at least 2m behind the mat and remain within the confines of the rink.
  6. Avoid distracting the bowler on the mat when at the mat end, for example by chatting or moving in their peripheral vision. Be similarly conscious of players on adjacent rinks.
  7. When delivering a bowl, watch it until it comes to rest then retire behind the mat immediately.
  8. Commend your teammates’ good bowls and your opponents’ exceptional ones.
  9. Admit a fluke shot when you play one and remember it when your opponent gets one later in the game.
  10. Never clap a “lucky” bowl – remember that it is a poor bowl with a great result.
  11. Never encourage (ride) an opposition bowl for a lucky outcome for your team or clap the resulting outcome.
  12. Excuses for bad play should not be blamed on the condition of the green, wind or other weather conditions. The conditions are the same for all players.
  13. When moving from the mat end to the head end, please:
    • Follow behind or to the side of the last player to play so that they can see the path of their bowl.
    • Remain within your rink, walking as close to the centre of your rink as possible. This avoids disturbing or distracting bowlers on adjacent rinks.
  14. When moving behind other rinks, for example at the conclusion of play or during breaks for refreshments, be aware that nearby games may still be in progress. Watch for activity on all nearby rinks and stand still to avoid crossing behind the head of a game or likely line while a player is on the mat preparing to deliver a bowl.
  15. Share a shout with your opponent at the end of the game and engage in polite and respectful conversation.

Want to read more?

Read: Etiquette in the Sport of Bowls (PDF) by Maxine Viney.