
KENT COUNTY BOWLING ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1911
Bowls is played and enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities
Give Bowls a Try: It’s Time to Roll with It!
You’ve probably seen bowls competitions on TV or maybe paused for a moment to watch a game in your local park. At some point, you might have thought, “I wouldn’t mind giving that a try.” Well, what’s stopping you? While there are plenty of reasons and excuses why people haven’t tried bowls, we’re here to convince you that it’s time to take the plunge and discover what makes this game so captivating.
Why Haven’t You Tried Lawn Bowls Yet?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: many people think of bowls as a sport for the older generation. But here’s the good news—youth participation is on the rise! The under-25 scene is thriving, and young players are making waves at county, national, and international levels. So, if you think bowls is just for retirees, think again. The future of the game is already here, and it’s full of energy and excitement.
Another common reason people hesitate is the fear of not being good enough. Here’s the truth: nobody is a natural at bowls when they first start. Let’s face it, the bowls don’t even roll in a straight line! The beauty of the game is that anyone can get better with practice. And don’t worry—you won’t be facing off against seasoned pros like Alex Marshall or Mark Dawes on your first day. The journey is about fun, learning, and improving at your own pace.
Getting Started: Your First Step Towards Lawn Bowls
Once you’ve decided to give lawn bowls a shot, your first step is to contact your local Bowls Club. These clubs are always excited to welcome new members, and they’ll be thrilled to hear from you! Clubs often offer beginner-friendly coaching sessions led by experienced, volunteer coaches who have undergone professional training. The best part? These coaches are passionate about introducing newcomers to the sport they love.
Your coach will teach you the basics: how to hold and roll the bowl, how to aim, and how to deliver it correctly. While the objective of the game may sound simple—get your bowls as close to the little white ball (the jack) as possible—that’s where the fun begins! It’s all about mastering the subtle skills and tactics needed to outplay your opponent.
Practice Makes Perfect: Roll Up and Have Fun
After your introductory coaching sessions, you’ll be itching to practice. Luckily, most Bowls Clubs offer “roll-up” sessions, which are casual practice times where you can perfect your technique, either alone or with fellow club members. These sessions are usually available from midday onward, and with multiple rinks available, there’s always room for you to get in some practice—even if a competitive game is happening nearby.
What’s great about roll-ups is that they’re flexible. You can come and go as you please, making it easy to fit practice into your schedule. Plus, you’ll meet other new players just like yourself, all learning the ropes and enjoying the game together.
Jump Into Competitive Play: Friendly Games Await
Once you feel comfortable with the basics, it’s time to step up your game. Many clubs organise friendly competitions against other local clubs, providing the perfect opportunity to put your skills to the test. Don’t worry if you’re still a beginner—these games are designed for people at all levels. Everyone is there to enjoy the game, not to judge your skill level.
Of course, you might occasionally come up against some seasoned players—after all, county, national, and international competitors also enjoy a friendly game at the club level. But don’t be intimidated! These players often provide invaluable tips that can help you improve. Their advice could make a huge difference as you refine your own game. And remember, it’s all about enjoying the experience and having fun.
The Sky’s the Limit: Your Bowls Journey Awaits
Once you’ve mastered the basics and started playing in friendly games, who knows where lawn bowls might take you? With dedication and passion, you could one day find yourself competing at higher levels, representing your club, your county, or even your country. Yes, it’s true—many professional bowlers started out just like you, enjoying the game and honing their skills over time. Who’s to say you won’t be the next big name in bowls?
Why You Should Give Lawn Bowls a Try Today
Lawn bowls is more than just a sport—it’s a fun, social, and mentally engaging way to spend time outdoors. Whether you're looking to stay active, meet new people, or enjoy a game that combines strategy with relaxation, bowls has something for you. It’s a game that’s easy to learn but offers endless challenges as you improve. And the best part? It’s for people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a bowl, find your local club, and give it a go. We promise, once you start playing, you’ll be hooked. Who knows? Maybe next year, we’ll be cheering you on from the TV screen as you represent your country on the international stage!