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As we saw in this post
, every bowls club faces different challenges as membership changes and grows. Some are easy to solve, and some more difficult, but it’s always good to spend time to look at the various areas of your club and see if they can be improved.
The Challenge
At our club, having run a few really successful Open Weekends over the past few years, we’ve been fortunate to welcome a wave of new lady members in their 50s and early 60s. Many are still working and keen to get involved, but like all new players, they sometimes lack the confidence to step into matches or competitions straight away.
At the same time, our more experienced ladies – who have given so much to the club over the years – have adjusted their playing times. With many preferring not to drive in the dark during winter, league matches have been moved to lunchtime sessions. This works well for them, but it does mean our newer working-age members can’t always take part or benefit from playing alongside them.
The result? Our newer lady bowlers weren’t mixing as much with the established players, and this left them feeling uncertain about whether they were “ready” to take part in bigger club events such as club knockout tournaments or games against other clubs.
A Summer Solution
Rather than let this become a barrier, I decided to step in and help bridge the gap. Over the summer, I gave up my Sunday mornings to run relaxed sessions with our newer lady bowlers. The aim wasn’t just about technique – it was about confidence.
- Shot selection: helping them think about the right option at the right time.
- Tips & guidance: sharing little nuggets of experience that make the game easier.
- Encouragement: reminding them that they can compete at the same level as others.
- Team spirit: creating a group who support one another and grow together.
I wasn’t alone in this – I was very grateful for the support of Kath and Ruth, who helped get this group together and made sure the sessions ran smoothly.
The Benefits
The impact has been really positive. Our newer lady bowlers now feel:
- More confident in their abilities.
- Better prepared to step into club matches when needed.
- Part of a growing, supportive group of players who encourage each other.
Most importantly, these sessions helped build a bridge between the different groups in our club. It’s not about “younger” versus “older” members – it’s about creating opportunities for everyone to learn, grow, and enjoy bowls together.
Moving Forward
This experience has shown me how important it is for clubs to look at their membership and spot where players might be missing out. Sometimes, just a little extra support can make all the difference in helping people feel included and confident.
Our established lady members remain a vital part of the club, with huge experience to share. But by supporting the newer generation, we’re making sure the club continues to be strong, welcoming, and full of opportunity for everyone.
If your club has a similar challenge, why not consider creating confidence-building sessions too?