Bowls, a sport enjoyed globally for its strategic depth and camaraderie, has its own unique terminology. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the language of bowls can greatly enhance your appreciation and performance in the game. This guide delves into key bowls terminology, offering detailed explanations to help you navigate the sport confidently.
General Terms in Bowls
1. The Green
The green refers to the carefully maintained grass or synthetic surface where bowls games are played. It is divided into sections called “rinks” for individual matches.
2. Rink
A rink is a designated playing area on the green, marked out by boundary lines. Competitions typically have multiple rinks in use simultaneously.
3. Mat
The mat is a small rectangular piece placed on the green, serving as the starting point for delivering bowls. Players must stand on or behind the mat when delivering their shots.
4. Jack
The jack is a small white or yellow ball that acts as the target. Players aim to position their bowls as close to the jack as possible.
5. Bowl
A bowl is the weighted, asymmetrical ball used in the game. The bias, or weight distribution, makes it curve during delivery.
Types of Shots
6. Draw Shot
A draw shot is a precise, gently delivered bowl designed to come to rest near the jack without knocking other bowls out of position.
7. Drive Shot
A drive shot is a powerful, fast bowl aimed at displacing the jack or other bowls. It is a high-risk, high-reward shot used strategically.
8. Block Shot
This defensive shot places a bowl in the path of an opponent’s expected delivery to disrupt their play.
9. Yard-On Shot
A yard-on shot is delivered with slightly more force than a draw shot, aiming to either move the jack or adjust the position of other bowls.
10. Trail Shot
In a trail shot, the bowl is aimed to make gentle contact with the jack and move it toward a more favorable position.
Positioning Terms
11. Head
The head refers to the area around the jack where bowls accumulate during play. The arrangement of bowls in the head is crucial for scoring and strategy.
12. Back Bowl
A back bowl is positioned beyond the jack to act as a safeguard if the jack is displaced.
13. Toucher
A bowl that makes direct contact with the jack is called a toucher. Touchers are marked with chalk and remain in play even if they enter the ditch.
14. Shot Bowl
The shot bowl is the bowl currently closest to the jack, determining the score for that end.
15. Ditch
The ditch is the area surrounding the green. Bowls that enter the ditch are considered out of play unless they are touchers.
Match Structure and Scoring
16. End
An end is a single round of play, where all players deliver their bowls, and the score is determined based on the final positions of the bowls relative to the jack.
17. Measure
When bowls are closely positioned, a measuring device is used to determine which is closest to the jack. This process is called a measure.
18. Lead, Second, Third, Skip
These terms refer to the positions in a team during fours (team of four players). The lead delivers the first bowls, followed by the second and third, with the skip serving as the team captain.
19. Tie-End
A tie-end occurs when no bowls are closer to the jack than an opponent’s, resulting in no score for that round.
Technical and Advanced Terms
20. Bias
The bias refers to the asymmetrical weight distribution of the bowl, causing it to curve during delivery. Understanding and controlling bias is fundamental to mastering bowls.
21. Delivery
Delivery is the act of releasing the bowl onto the green. A consistent and controlled delivery is key to effective play.
22. Line and Length
Line refers to the trajectory or path of the bowl, while length indicates the distance it travels. Balancing line and length is essential for accurate shots.
23. Grass
Grass is a term for the arc or curve taken by a bowl due to its bias. Giving the bowl enough grass means accounting for its natural curve.
24. Weight
Weight refers to the force applied during delivery. Adjusting the weight can control how far the bowl travels.
25. Dead End
A dead end occurs when the jack is displaced out of bounds. The end is voided and replayed.
26. Burnt End
A burnt end is another term for a dead end, though it is more commonly used in some regions.
27. Set Play
In set play, matches are divided into sets, with the winner determined by the number of sets won rather than total points.
28. Skip’s Call
The skip provides tactical instructions to teammates, guiding the strategy for each shot.
29. Rink Markings
These include boundary lines, center lines, and other indicators to help players position the mat and align their shots accurately.
Etiquette and Traditions
30. Etiquette
Respecting opponents, maintaining silence during deliveries, and acknowledging good shots are hallmarks of sportsmanship in bowls.
31. Scoring Stickers
Small stickers are used to mark bowls for identification during play. Each player or team uses a unique color.
32. Bowls Bag
A bag designed to carry bowls, shoes, and other equipment is essential for players.
Conclusion
Understanding bowls terminology is vital for both newcomers and seasoned players. Familiarity with these terms not only enhances gameplay but also fosters a deeper connection to the sport’s rich traditions. Whether you are strategizing your next shot, interpreting a skip’s call, or simply enjoying a social game, this knowledge ensures you can fully engage in the wonderful world of bowls.
