Understanding Bocce Ball

To start playing bocce ball, players will first need the proper set

Bocce ball is the perfect option for a relaxing yet competitive recreational sport. It doesn't require much equipment, yet it can be highly engaging. The game originated in ancient Egypt before later becoming popular in Rome. Today, it's considered a fun game to play in the backyard.

Here are the basics of playing bocce ball:

Get the right equipment

To start playing bocce ball, players will first need the proper set. A typical set won't cost more than $20 for hobbyists, while professional sets might cost up to $100. This makes it a budget-friendly sport without much equipment necessary.

A set contains four balls of one color and four balls of another color. There will also be one ball much smaller than the rest. This smaller-sized ball is called a "jack" or "pallino." It serves as a target that players must hit with the other balls.

The official parameters for a bocce ball court are usually 13 feet by 91 feet. However, hobbyists can play on any relatively wide and flat surface. Backyards or public parks will do just fine.

One can play bocce ball one-on-one or with teams containing up to four players. More than eight players may crowd the surface. A standard set also provides only one ball per player.

Launch the jack as the first play

Players will flip a coin to decide who will first throw the jack. Once decided, a player will bowl the jack toward a prescribed area at the end of the court. With an official court, the exact area is marked. However, casual players should focus on bowling the ball far enough so it isn't too easy to hit.

Using the bocce balls

Once the jack is in place, the same team throws the first bocce ball. The objective is for it to fall as close to the jack as possible. Afterward, the second team gets its shot. The team's ball furthest from the jack then gets to throw their remaining three balls one after the other. Then, the team with the remaining balls follows.

Assigning points

After all bocce balls have been thrown, it's time to analyze the points. The team with the closest ball to the jack gets one point. If a team ends with a ball touching or "kissing" the jack, they get two points. This is known as a "bacci." The teams then switch sides and continue until one team collects 12 points.

Throwing and bowling techniques

There are two main ways of launching a bocce ball. Most cup the ball underhand and roll it across the ground. Lobbing the ball into the air and letting it fall close to the jack is also acceptable.

Play bocce ball in style

While a backyard will work, playing bocce ball on a real court is much more fun. To enhance the experience, hobbyists should consider contacting a professional for advice.

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