Our Code of Conduct

Playing Rules and Etiquette

Know the Rules:

All bowlers should know the rules as laid down by the World Bowls Association. The ‘Laws of the Sport of Bowls – Crystal Mark Fourth Edition’ are in place for outdoor play in England.  These rules can be viewed here.

Dress Code:

Check you know the correct dress code for the occasion – and wear it.

Wear Flat Soled Shoes:

Outdoor shoes must be changed for flat soled shoes before stepping on the green.

Punctuality:

Make sure you know the starting time of the game and arrive in sufficient time to change and be ready to start on the green at the appointed time.

Team Play:

In a team game, arrive in time to welcome your guests.

Use Steps Provided:

Players should use the steps provided when going on and off the green.

Do Not Drop Bowls:

Bowls should not be dropped on the green.

Steps & Verges:

Do not sit or stand on the steps or verges.

Shake Hands:

Shake hands with your opponents before and after the game.

Kicking In Bowls:

Bowls should not be kicked in until after the head has been decided.

Position Post Delivery:

After delivering a bowl, a player should either retire behind the mat or advance to the head. He should not take up a position in between.

Game Flow:

Don’t delay the game.

Do Not Distract Opponents:

Don’t wander around or move about the head when a player is about to deliver a bowl. Always be mindful not to distract your opponents in any way.

Scoring:

If you are responsible for keeping the score, compare your card with your opponents at regular intervals. If score-boards are in use, ensure it concurs with the scorecards.

Rink Possession:

Do not infringe the laws of rink possession.  Possession of the rink belongs to the player or team whose bowl is being played.  A player must not deliver a bowl until the previous bowl comes to rest. (Full details of the law are shown in Section 13 of the World Bowls Assn Rules.)

Deciding Shots:

Unless you have been delegated to decide the shots at the completion of an end, do not interfere in any way shape or form with this process. (Usually it is the third who decides in a fours, and the second who decides in a pairs or triples.) If an umpire has been called, stay well clear of the head until a decision has been made.

Gracious in Defeat:

If you lose the game remember to congratulate your opponent.

Courtesy:

Bowling is a friendly game and all players should show courtesy and good sportsmanship.

Criticism:

Never be heard to criticise the green or your opponent.

Sportsmanship:

Acknowledge a “fluke” and commend an opponent’s good bowl.

 

General Rules and Etiquette

Movement on the Terraces:

Don’t wander around or move about on the terraces when a player is about to deliver a bowl.

Mobile Phones:

Mobile Phones should not be used on or around the green.

Smoking Area:

There should be no smoking or vaping anywhere within the perimeter fence apart from the designated smoking area by the entrance gate. Place litter in the bin provided.

Keep Changing Rooms Safe and Tidy:

To avoid trips or falls place bowls bags, equipment and shoes, on or under the benches provided.

Rink Booking:

Use the booking system by phone or online to book a rink for play or practice.

Use of Rinks:

The Greenkeeper has the final say on use of the green and individual rinks.

Enjoy yourself:

Please enjoy your game.