Etiquette on the green

The game of lawn bowls, whether competitive or social, is to be played in an atmosphere of fellowship and sociability, with its roots in common courtesy. Sportsmanship, as defined in the Oxford dictionary, is conduct characteristic or worthy of an athlete. Etiquette is simply good manners, treating others with respect and consideration at all times.Some rules of etiquette are part of the sportsmanship all are expected to exhibit.

  • Always be on time and ready to start, dress correctly, shoes clean, measure, chalk, coin, etc.

  • Protect the green; do not bounce or loft bowls but lay them down in your delivery. Always wear correct footwear: flat, smooth-soled, heel-less shoes.

  • Pay attention to the game. Socialize after the game and not during it.

  • Always be ready to take your turn on the mat.

  • Refrain from unnecessary movement and talking when an opponent is on the mat. Don’t talk when on the bank-watch play at all times.

  • Remain behind the mat or behind the head when it is not your turn to play. Always remember as soon as your bowl has come to rest possession of the rink passes to your opponent.

  • Walk down the centre of your rink when changing ends, for the good of the green and in order not to be a distraction to other players on the green. When changing ends-don’t stop. Stay at head if consultation is necessary.

  • Never walk up the green in front of a player on the mat.

  • Do not talk or move about (if in the head) when a member of your team or the opposition is about to deliver their bowl.

  • Always encourage-never criticize. Compliment your opponent as well as your teammate on a good shot.

  • Do not say thank you if your opponent gives the shot away. If you must say anything say “bad luck”.

  • Do not carry on a running commentary (either verbally or nonverbally) as each bowl makes its way to the head.

  • Do not grumble, but keep quiet if your opponent gets a good result from a fluke shot.

  • Always line bowl from behind rink peg to determine if it is out of bounds.

  • The thirds in triples or in fours are the two players that should alternate in the head to determine points and advise the skips. They also do the counting. The other players should stand well back from the head. Let them do their job, do not crowd them.

  • The team conceding shots should measure and remove shot(s) when the count is clearly more than one shot. A small towel should be carried so the measured bowl(s) can be placed upon it.

  • Be ready to help opponent with a long measure.

  • Everyone gathers in bowls once the end is complete.

  • Just prior to delivery of your bowl, make sure that the path is clear, check the next rink in case a player is about to deliver their bowl.

  • Place the skips bowl on the mat prior to changeover.

  • Take an interest in the game-follow how the head is building up, you should not have to ask the skip the position of the head.

  • Do not walk around talking to other players on the green, they might not be interested, especially if they are concentrating on their own game.

  • Remember it is only a game and must be played in the best spirit of the game, this does not mean you should not have the determination to win.

  • Enjoy the game and attempt your best shot every time.

  • Be on good terms with opponent.

  • If beaten, take it sportingly-congratulate the winner and really mean it.

  • Skips – all eyes are on you, do not become engrossed in conversation with the opposing Skip showing lack of interest in the game.

  • Warn players on adjoining-rinks that a drive is about to be played on your rink with the risk of disturbing bowls on their head. Endeavour to prevent this happening by guarding the side boundaries.

  • For singles matches, do your share of marking as you will appreciate it when someone marks for you. Thank the marker after a match.

  • If a measure is in doubt or you have questions regarding the rules consult the umpire or tournament coordinator. Thank them after they have given a decision.

  • There is no need for improper language. It is out of place on a bowling green.

  • Be a gracious winner.

  • Be a good loser.

  • At the end of a game shake hands with the opponents.

  • Be meticulous on etiquette and fair play.

  • Above all ENJOY the game and help others to as well!