Bowls, a sport often associated with precision and strategy, has a unique set of terminologies that can be intimidating for newcomers. Whether you are a casual player or someone who enjoys watching the game, understanding bowls terminology is essential to fully appreciating and engaging with the sport. This guide will walk you through the essential terms, helping you improve your knowledge and skill in bowls.
In bowls, the language used on the green can be quite specific. The terminology includes everything from the names of the bowls to terms related to the different strategies used throughout the game. Having a grasp of these terms will make you feel more confident and connected with the sport.
The Basics of Bowls Terminology
Before diving into the more advanced terminology, let’s first look at some of the basic terms commonly used in the game of bowls.
Bowls
The term “bowls” refers to the actual equipment used in the game. Bowls are weighted, spherical objects made of composite materials, and they have a bias (a specific curve) that causes them to veer to one side when rolled. A bowler’s goal is to roll their bowl as close as possible to the “jack” or target ball.
Jack
The “jack” is a small white ball, typically made of a durable material, that serves as the target for the bowls. Players aim to roll their bowls toward the jack in order to score points. In some variations of bowls, such as lawn bowls, the jack is also referred to as the “kitty.”
Rink
The “rink” is the area or playing surface on which the game is played. In lawn bowls, the rink is a long, rectangular patch of grass or artificial surface, where players roll their bowls towards the jack.
End
An “end” in bowls is one complete round of play. Each team or player gets the chance to bowl all their bowls toward the jack, and after that, the points are scored. A game consists of multiple ends.
Delivery
The term “delivery” refers to the action of rolling a bowl toward the jack. It involves the technique and skill of the bowler, including the stance, grip, and the timing of the release.
Bias
Bias is the term used to describe the curved trajectory that a bowl follows when it is rolled. A biased bowl will not travel in a straight line but will gradually curve to one side, depending on the hand the player uses. This feature adds complexity to the game, as players must factor in the bias when aiming for the jack.
Skip
The “skip” is the player who leads the strategy for their team. Skips are responsible for calling shots and making decisions about how the game should proceed. They typically play their bowls last, giving them the opportunity to adjust their strategy based on the positions of the other players’ bowls.
Lead
The “lead” is the first player to bowl in an end. The lead’s primary job is to roll the first bowl close to the jack, setting up a good foundation for the rest of the team to follow.
Third
The “third” (or vice-skip) is the player who bowls second for their team. This player plays an important role in supporting the skip’s strategy and often plays a key part in the middle stages of an end.
Intermediate and Advanced Bowls Terminology
Now that we have covered the basic terms, let’s explore more specific and advanced terminology that will help deepen your understanding of bowls.
Head
In bowls, the “head” refers to the arrangement of bowls in relation to the jack after all the players have completed their deliveries. It shows the positions of the bowls and can be assessed to determine how many points each team has scored.
Shot
A “shot” in bowls refers to a bowl that has successfully reached a position in the head that either scores a point or has the potential to score. A team may have several shots in the head, meaning they have more bowls closer to the jack than their opponents.
Draw Shot
A “draw shot” is a type of delivery where the bowler aims to roll their bowl to a specific spot near the jack without trying to knock other bowls out of the way. The goal of a draw shot is to control the placement of the bowl, often to gain a better position in the head.
Drive
A “drive” is a more aggressive type of shot where the bowler attempts to hit the opponent’s bowl(s) out of the way, or to move the jack. Drives are often used in situations where a team needs to clear space or change the position of the jack in order to gain an advantage.
Spoon
A “spoon” refers to a bowl that has been poorly delivered, often resulting in a bowl that either veers off course or does not travel the expected distance. A spoon typically results from a misjudgment in the delivery.
Bowl Out
A “bowl out” is a situation where players try to knock their opponent’s bowls out of the head or prevent them from scoring. It is commonly used in both offensive and defensive strategies when the position of the bowls on the green is unfavorable.
Blocker
A “blocker” is a bowl that is strategically placed to obstruct an opponent’s path. Blockers are used to block or hinder the opponent’s ability to roll their bowls to the jack or to score points.
Centre Line
The “centre line” refers to the imaginary line running down the middle of the rink. This line helps players line up their shots and provides a reference point for positioning the jack at the start of an end.
Yard On
“Yard on” is a term used when a bowler delivers their bowl with a slight adjustment to the bias or strength, typically in an effort to slightly alter the positioning of their bowl. The term can also describe the strategy of placing a bowl just behind or a little further away from the jack.
Scoring Terminology in Bowls
Understanding how scoring works is fundamental to playing bowls effectively. Here are some of the important terms related to scoring:
Point
A “point” is earned by the player or team whose bowl is closest to the jack at the conclusion of an end. In most forms of bowls, only one team can score per end. The team with the closest bowl to the jack earns one point for each bowl that is closer than the opponent’s closest bowl.
Scoreboard
The “scoreboard” is used to track the score during a game of bowls. It shows how many points each team has scored and helps players and spectators keep track of the game’s progress.
Two-shot or Three-shot
These terms refer to the total number of points a team has won in a particular end. For example, if a team has two bowls closer to the jack than any of the opponent’s bowls, they are said to have won two shots for that end.
Dead End
A “dead end” occurs when no team has scored any points during an end. This can happen if all the bowls are equidistant from the jack or if the jack is displaced from the rink.
Measure
A “measure” is the process of determining the relative distance between the bowls and the jack when there is uncertainty about which bowl is closest. A special measuring tool is often used to accurately assess the distance.
The Importance of Understanding Bowls Terminology
Learning and using bowls terminology not only helps you communicate effectively with other players but also allows you to strategize better and understand the nuances of the game. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced player, understanding the terminology is key to improving your performance and enjoying the game to its fullest.
Conclusion
Mastering bowls terminology is a valuable step for anyone looking to improve their understanding of the sport. By familiarizing yourself with the key terms, you will not only gain confidence but also become a more strategic player. Whether you’re rolling the first bowl as a lead, setting up a crucial shot as a skip, or analyzing the head, the terminology gives you the tools you need to make informed decisions.
As you continue to practice and play, these terms will become second nature, enhancing both your appreciation and ability in the sport of bowls.
FAQs
What is the difference between a draw shot and a drive in bowls?
A draw shot is a controlled delivery aimed at positioning the bowl close to the jack without disturbing other bowls. A drive, on the other hand, is a more aggressive shot used to hit or move the opponent’s bowls out of the way.
How does scoring work in bowls?
In bowls, the team with the bowl closest to the jack at the end of the round earns one point for each of their bowls that is closer than the opponent’s closest bowl.
What is a “dead end” in bowls?
A dead end occurs when no team scores any points in a round, often because all bowls are equidistant from the jack or the jack is displaced from the rink.
What does “bias” mean in bowls?
Bias refers to the curve that a bowl follows when rolled. A biased bowl does not travel in a straight line but veers to one side, depending on the hand used for delivery.
What is a “blocker” in bowls?
A blocker is a strategically placed bowl designed to obstruct an opponent’s path and make it harder for them to score points.
