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Boccia

What is Boccia?

Boccia is a target ball sport which tests both muscle control and accuracy. From a seated position,
players propel balls to land as close as possible to a white marker ball, known as the Jack. Two sides
compete as individuals, pairs or as a team of three over a set number of ends (4 for individuals and
pairs, and 6 for teams).

Each side plays six balls (red or blue) each end. After each end, the athlete, pair or team with the ball closest to the jack receives 1 point plus an additional point for each ball closer to the jack than their opponent’s. Points are accumulated over the course of a match to find a winner. Although simple to get started, the tactics of the sport offer both tension and excitement as the game plays out.


Balls can be rolled down a ramp, thrown or kicked. If a player is unable to release the ball with their hands, they can use assistive devices, such as a head pointer.

As boccia is an indoor sport you can play wherever and whenever you like! Traditionally the game is played on a flat, smooth surface, usually indoors, with a court the size of a badminton court:12.5 x 6m. Most venues don’t have a boccia court laid out so you can use court tape to mark out the court.

Boccia

How can colleges get involved?

Boccia England are have a membership offer for Schools and Colleges, which normally costs £10 for the year but is currently discounted to £7.

As a member college you will get:

  • A 5% discount on your first set of boccia balls at the Boccia England Shop
  • Your own personal digital welcome pack to guide you through your membership journey.
  • A vote at the Boccia England AGM
  • Access to member forums throughout the year
  • Access to Boccia England competitions, regional academies, leagues and squads
  • Free entry to the Boccia Programme County Competition (Virtual in 2021/22)
  • Priority access to book on a range of training opportunities
  • Exclusive member competitions and festive prize draws
  • Full access to all levels of the Boccia England Club Accreditation Scheme
  • Member specific access to a range of support and advice from the Boccia England team to enhance your boccia experience.

How can students get involved?

Boccia England have a number of affiliated community clubs that run introductory sessions and training regularly. Find a club close to you by visiting Boccia England’s Find a Club.

Find a local Boccia Club

Students can also get involved as a Volunteer. The Boccia Leaders Award is a great practical workshop to get students started with a friendly introduction to leading and refereeing the sport. Colleges are invited to host this course within their setting – find out more; https://www.bocciaengland.org.uk/leaders-award