Gloucester City Bowling Code of Conduct

           

Charter

Bowls is a sport that thrives on its traditions of fairness, respect, and camaraderie. It should be played not only in accordance with the Laws of the Sport of Bowls, but also in the spirit of the game and the values of Bowls England: Collaborative, Adaptable, Responsible and Encouraging (CARE).

The responsibility for upholding these values lies with everyone involved who is affiliated to Glos City Bowls Club.

This Code of Conduct reflects our Club’s commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone - on and off the green.

These guidelines were agreed by our Club Committee December 2025 and are designed to support a thriving community where everyone feels valued and inspired.

Respectful Behaviour

• Treat everyone with courtesy and respect, regardless of differences in opinion, background or ability.
• Use positive, respectful language, avoid offensive language, taunting, bullying, harassment or discrimination.
• Celebrate and congratulate good play and positive behaviours. Demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times, win or lose.

Celebrate Our Differences

• Embrace the diversity of our club community and encourage participation from individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, genders and ages.
• Be mindful that some disabilities may be hidden - always approach others with kindness and understanding.

Maintain a Safe Environment

• Help create a safe and inclusive space for all, ensure you notify club management of any unsafe conditions.
• Ensure adequate supervision of Under 18s, ensure the right number of adults are present based on the children's age, group size, the activity and their specific needs.
• Report safeguarding concerns promptly to our Club Safeguarding Officer.

 

Online Code of Conduct

• Treat others online with the same respect you would in person.
• Do not send messages or make/interact with posts that could be perceived by others as harmful, offensive or threatening via any media, such as Email, Text, WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
• Do not post content that could bring you, our Club, County Association or the sport into disrepute.
• Respect members’ privacy - always seek permission before sharing any images or personal information.

Our Club, Our Responsibility

• Keep the clubhouse clean, safe and welcoming.
• Report any health and safety concerns to Club management (a list is available on the noticeboard).

Appropriate Attire

• Dress suitably for Club events and activities. When we look like a team, we feel like a team.
• If unsure about dress code expectations, ask a fellow member - we're here to support each other.
• Be understanding if a teammate or opponent requires flexibility with the dress code, as accessibility or personal circumstances may play a role.

Volunteer Appreciation

• Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our club. From Greenkeepers who care for our playing surface to Umpires who make our games happen to Club Secretaries who keep everything running smoothly, their dedication makes our sport possible. Take time to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts.  A simple thank you goes a long way.

Breaches of Conduct

The Club takes breaches of this Code seriously. If behaviour falls short of these expectations and a complaint is made, Regulation 9 (R9) will be followed.

Acknowledgment

By being part of our Club, every member, parent or guardian and supporter agrees to uphold these standards. Together, we commit to creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone can enjoy the sport and thrive.

 

Gloucester City Bowls Club

December 2025.

 

1). Before the Game:

• Check you know the correct dress for the occasion – and wear it.
• Make sure you know the starting time of the game and arrive in sufficient time to change and be ready to start on time.
• In a home game, arrive in time to welcome your guests.
• Update the match selection sheet to show that you are available – if not available call team captain as well as updating the selection sheet.

2). During and After the Game

• Do not drop your woods onto the green.
• Shake hands with your opponents before and after the game.
• Do not stand or sit on the bank unless it is the only option.
• Do not drop litter or cigarette ends in the ditches – use the receptacles provided.
• Stand still while other players are about to play.
• Do not infringe the laws of rink possession – always stand well within your allocated rink.
• Wait until the result of an end has been declared before moving any of the woods.
• If you are responsible for keeping the score, compare your card with your opponent’s card at regular intervals. If scoreboards are in use, ensure it matches with the scorecards.
• Unless you have been delegated to decide the shots at the completion of an end, do not interfere in any way with the process.
• If an umpire has been called, move well away from the head until the umpire has made their decision. The umpire’s decision is final and should not be challenged.
• If you lose the game remember to congratulate your opponents.
• Never be heard to criticise the green, your opponents or their shots.
• Acknowledge a “fluke” and commend an opponent’s good wood.
• It is customary to buy your opponent a drink if you have won the game. If you have had a “marker” in a singles game you should also offer them a drink.
• On an odd occasion if you cannot stay behind for the drinks and or tea, please indicate this to your team captain well before the game.
• Be aware of who is playing beside you and watching and ensure that appropriate language is used at all times.
• Remember the position that you are playing and only add your comments if asked by the Skip.