- Boccia originated in Greece, where players threw large stones at a stone target
- Originally designed for people with severe cerebral palsy, it is now enjoyed by players from many sectors of the community
- Practiced in over 50 countries worldwide
- Ranges from recreational to a variety of competitive events
- Became a Paralympic sport in 1984
NAME ORIGIN
The name boccia is derived from the Latin word bottia, meaning ‘ball’, and is pronounced ‘bot-cha’.
INTRODUCTION
Boccia is a disability sport that tests muscle control and accuracy. Players propel balls to land close to a target ball. Two sides compete as individuals, pairs or as a team of three over a set number of ends. Each side has six balls (red or blue) each end to try and score points. Points are accumulated over the course of a match to find a winner.
Sounds simple? It is to get started, but the tactics of the sport offer both tension and excitement as the game plays put.
The ball can be rolled, thrown or kicked. If a player is unable to throw or kick the ball, they can use a ramp. If players are unable to release the ball with their hands, they can use assistive devices – head/hand pointer.
The sport is played indoors on a 12.5m by 6m court, usually in a sports hall but any suitable flat playing area can be used.