Bowling Etiquette

Conscious that those who are new to bowls may be concerned with adhering to protocol, we have prepared this section which may assist in understanding some basic do's and dont's of the game. The laws of the sport can be found under the Bowlers Zone section

Positive Etiquette

Where steps are provided, do enter and leave the green by using them
Do show consideration to other bowlers, as you would expect them to show to you
Do keep quiet and stand still when someone is about to play a bowl
Do stand well behind when your opponent is on the mat
Do be ready to play when it's your turn
Do accept your skip's instructions as to the hand he/she wishes you to play, unless they give you the option
Do bowl ... don't drop
If you decide to play a drive shot, warn those at the head
Do remember the rules regarding possession of the rink. When a bowls comes to rest, you must be behind the mat or behind the head
Do walk close to the centre of the rink when changing ends to avoid distracting the adjoining rinks
Do stand well clear of the head - not in it
Do compliment a team member or opponent for a good shot
Do assist with the collection of the bowls when an end is completed and you are at the mat end
Do shake hands with your opponent before and after the game (unless there are restrictions - e.g. Covid - which prevent this)
Do be a good loser - don't blame others on the rink
If you've entered the club competitions ensure your ties are always played by the due date for each round
Do above all, enjoy the game for the fun, fitness, pleasure and the lasting friendships it provides

Negative Etiquette

Don't drop your bowls - place them on the rink
Don't walk across other players' rinks
Don't deliver your bowl before the previous bowl has come to rest
Don't wander around or move about the head when a player is about to deliver a bowl
Don't kick in the bowls until all the shots have been decided and agreed
Don't cheer or applaud lucky or unlucky bowls - accept them graciously
Don't complain about your opponent's lucky bowls - you will have your fair share throughout the season
Don't waste time - if the result of a head is in doubt then measure. Looking at it for several minutes won't provide definitive proof of who is lying the shot
Mind your language whilst on the green
Do not eat, drink or smoke on the green
When walking past ongoing games it is considered good practice not to walk behind/in front of the bowler who is standing on the mat preparing to bowl at either end
It is always expected that any competition singles match has a marker
When marking a singles match, try and facilitate a good flow of the game. Ideally you should be at the other end ready to set the jack when the bowler is about to throw the jack