The Etiquette of Short Mat Bowls

 

The Laws of the Game are intended to eliminate unfair play.

However well written the Laws may be, there are grey areas which can be resolved by goodwill on the part of the players i.e. a code of etiquette.

Etiquette - forms of civilised manner or decorum, the conventional laws of courtesy observed between members of the same profession, sport etc.

 

The following is a guide to the etiquette of Short Mat Bowls:

1. Be conversant with the ESMBA Laws of the Game

2. Respect the decision of the umpire.

3. Be punctual to matches and correctly dressed.

4 Where possible, stand behind the fender when at the mat. If space is limited them position yourself to cause least distraction to a player on the mat.

5. Always remain quiet and refrain from moving when a player is on the mat and preparing to bowl.

6. Always stand still at the head when a player is about to bowl.

7. Have regard for players on adjacent mats as your actions could disturb their game. Walk down the centre of the mat to change ends if space is tight and keep noise to a minimum.

8. Do not delay play, always play your bowl with minimum delay.

9. Never deliver your bowl until the previous bowl has come to rest.

10. Give a clear verbal and physical indication to the head end if you intend to use sufficient weight to disturb the head. Those at the head end should alert adjacent mats and be ready to field any errant woods - including the wood bowled with weight if it strikes the block.

11. Keep track of play, be ready to bowl when it is your turn.

12. Pay attention to your skip and wait for their instruction before delivering your bowl.

13. Every player at the head should assist in collecting bowl on completion of an end.

14. Never applaud or complain about 'lucky' bowls. We all have our share of wicks and they tend to even out over the duration of a game.

15. Always inform your opponent if you wish to leave the mat.

16. The actions of a marker can make or break a singles game. Obtain a copy of the 'Duties of a Marker' and learn to be a good marker.

The skills acquired will also be of use when measuring and deciding the shots in team games.