Etiquette

(Also known as the Unwritten Laws of the game)

• Be conversant with the 'Laws of the Game' and observe them

• Respect the decision of the Umpire

• Be punctual to allow all games to commence on time

• Come to all games correctly attired

• Keep quiet and refrain from moving when players are on the mat

• Stand behind the mat while your opponent bowls (Law 50)

• Always stand still at the head when a player is about to bowl - movement at the head or talking at the end of the mat can be very distracting

• Always allow your opponent the right to the head, as spelt out in the 'Laws of the Game'...failure to do so decreases the enjoyment of the game (Law 49)

• When changing ends, walk close to the centre of the rink and with the minimum of delay or you could well distract the players in the adjoining rink

• Do not delay play - always play your bowl with the minimum of delay

• Never play your bowl before the previous bowl has come to rest

• Keep track of play and be ready to bowl when it is your turn

• Every player at the mat end must assist in collecting the bowls when the end is over

• Always pay your skip the respect of waiting his / her decision. Do not step onto the mat and indicate which way you intend to play - wait for the skip's instructions

• Never applaud 'lucky bowls' - they tend to equal each other out over a season

• Respect the rink's surface at all times

DO NOT

a) Drop bowls on the surface

b) Stand on the edge of the rink

c) Stand on the bank

c) Walk in the ditches

• Always inform your opponents if you wish to leave the rink

• If you lose, be a good loser and do not blame your loss on people, the rink, the weather, the bowls etc.

• Win or lose always shake hands with your opponents and thank them for the game. Do not be immodest about your game - the position could reversed tomorrow

• Offer your opponent a drink after the game

• When playing singles, whether you have won or lost, be sure to thank the marker and offer a drink. Remember that they give up their time to assist in your game. You can repay this by being courteous

• It is polite to thank the Umpire of the day before leaving the club

• Learn to be a good marker. Remember, when offering your services, that a marker can make or break a game

• When not playing, take care not to walk across the ends of the rinks when players are on the mat facing you and about to deliver - movement can be very distracting

ENJOY THE GAME