Bowls isn’t just a sport for older people.
That’s the message Werribee Bowls Club is trying to get out, and its new Friday night barefoot bowls will show why the game can be for all ages.
Program co-ordinator Rhonda Edwards said the days of old white uniforms and hats are gone.
“Historically, bowlers have been retirees, but this is no longer the case, with young people becoming increasingly active in the sport,” Ms Edwards said.
“Bowlers can be grouped into five broad categories – consumers, bowlers, socialisers, clubbers and identifiers – each seeking something different from their bowls experience”.
She said the sport had both physical and social benefits, and opens doors for people of different physical abilities.
She said the club is also working to attract people from diverse cultural backgrounds to its regular competitions, and is also engaging with local primary and secondary schools.
Every Friday night, the club hosts a special end-of-week event with a barbecue, music and barefoot bowls.
“It has been very successful, with literally hundreds visiting the club over the past few months,” Ms Edwards said.
“Many return to play on a regular basis.”
Barefoot bowls starts from 5.30pm every Friday at the Werribee Bowls Club, next to Chirnside Park.
