One of the core priorities underpinning our ‘Fit for the Future’ Strategy is a determination to create positive playing experiences for everyone who steps on the green regardless of age, gender or ability. Providing the right competitions at the appropriate level is fundamental to this, and we therefore committed to reviewing our domestic competitions.
Whilst we know competitions are popular within our membership, we are also acutely aware of a number of challenges, for example the continued decline in entry numbers (particularly in women’s events), the latter stages being dominated by a reducing pool of players and age bands at junior and senior level that may not be conducive to encouraging participation.
We have formed a Competitions Working Party that is formed of a cross section of our community – players/umpires and administrators – with representation across the regions, age groups and gender. Click here to find out more.
The Working Party’s objective is to develop a revised competitions programme that:
- is valued by players and retains them in our sport
- stimulates opportunities for participation among those who may not otherwise play
- supports international performance by providing an optimal environment to prepare players
- supports our Performance Pathway by stretching and inspiring our most talented young players
- elevates the National Finals in the minds of all bowlers
The Working Party has already undertaken significant research since its formation and discussed potential solutions, and we are now seeking the views of participants and administrators to help the Working Party to finalise its proposals later this year.
The Working Party’s recommendations will be presented to the Bowls England Board and County Associations later this year, with a final proposal presented to County Associations at the AGM in February 2024 for implementation from the 2025 season.
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