Roll up for the next FREE Open introductory session on January 4

Post date: Dec 28, 2013 11:15:30 AM

Class of 2013: A group of coaches and new bowlers who took up the game in September

A handful of former Stamford footballers have been recalling their time as players 40 years ago and consider themselves fortunate as bowlers to be just as competitive and passionate as they were in their mid-20s when they were scoring goals and making tackles on muddy winter pitches.

Even women who have taken up bowls agree it is very satisfying to still be competitive - often alongside teenagers - without the physical challenges that maybe hockey, tennis or netball demands.

Stamford Indoor Bowls Club has also recognised that bowls is the only ball sport that provides the chance for men, women and children of either gender to compete on equal terms and can be enjoyed by all the family. This was clearly visible in the Mick Owens Trophy where family teams were well to the fore.

And to this end, the club (off Exeter Gardens) is staging a free Open Session on Saturday, January 4 (9.30am - noon) for anyone wishing to try the sport and potentially sign up for a series of regular coaching sessions.

Says the club's press-officer Bob Warters: "It wasn't until we joined the bowls club that at least five of us discovered we all played for Stamford Rovers FC - in the late 1960s and none had lost the competitive spirit that had driven us then.

"We're all now passionate about bowls and keen for others maybe no longer playing sport, to share in a game that offers so much for all the family whatever their age."

Added one newcomer who attends the regular Saturday morning coaching sessions and aims to join in the league matches in the New Year: "I'm thrilled that I have found bowls and the indoor club. Not only does it offer great facilities to keep me active and competitive but I have made so many new friends in a similar situation."

Equipment is provided for the taster session. For further information call 01780 756452 (9.30am - 8.30pm).