IT’S CALLED “ETIQUETTE”
There’s a booklet, “The Etiquette and Courtesy of the Game of Bowls”, produced by the South African Bowls Association. It’s guidelines, references and suggestions are used by bowlers throughout the outdoor and indoor bowling world.
The booklet begins––“The game of bowls, whether competitive or social, is played in an atmosphere of fellowship and sociability. This atmosphere is maintained by a traditional code of behavior, with its roots in common courtesy…not only between opponents, but also between teammates, club officials, club members and spectators."
What follows is a sampling of the booklet’s comments on “Team Etiquette”:
1. Refrain from unnecessary movement and talking when an opponent is on the mat.
2. It is both a rule and etiquette that players at the head stand at a minimum distance of two meters behind the jack. Players should also stand two meters behind the mat.
3. When crossing over between the mat and head do not trespass into an adjoining rink or cause annoyance to its players.
4. Do not carry on a running commentary as each bowl makes its way to the head.
5. Do not grumble, keep quiet, if your opponent gets a good result from a fluke shot.
6. Keep in mind the better bowler usually has the better luck.
7. Do not say “thank you” if your opponent gives the shot away. If you must say anything say “bad luck."
8. If an umpire is called to measure, all players must leave the head and await the umpire’s decision, which is final.
9. Do not argue with your skip about the shot he asks you to play.
10. Don’t make excuses for bad play. Remember your opponent had the same conditions to contend with.
11. It’s a nice gesture to commend a good shot played by a teammate or opponent.
12. No head should be broke-up (raked) until both vices have agreed to the number of shots conceded.
13. The deepest principle in human relations is a desire to be appreciated. So never neglect an opportunity acknowledge a good shot.
14. Avoid making adverse comments about a member of your team.
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