Swale Indoor Bowls Club has grown from strength to strength since it opened and has even bounced back after not one, but two arson attacks in 2005.
We caught up with the Jane, Centre Manager at Swale Indoor Bowls Club, to find out a little bit more about the club itself, how they managed the past 18 months, and advice for anyone who would like to take up the sport.
Jane spoke to us about the club, explaining: “We have a wide range of bowlers, from absolute newbies to current England Internationals and members who have represented England at World Championships and have been fortunate enough to win many County and National titles, both as a Club and for individuals.
“We are for sure one of the strongest clubs in the County and have an excellent team spirit when representing our Club in the County & National competitions we enter. We have a strong junior section, some of our juniors are only five and it’s lovely to start them young and so keen.
“During COVID when we were closed many members kept in touch with each other. We have found that an individual may come along to join, maybe after losing a partner or retiring and in need of some activity to keep themselves busy or just wanting a new interest and they will meet up with other members here and strong bonds are made and lasting friendships formed.”
For anyone who is worried about joining because of a lack of practice, Jane reassures us that experience isn’t required to join and coaching is offered at the club, as well as shoes and equipment so there is no initial cost.
“New prospective members can have a few sessions, see if they like it and then can join if they think it’s something for them. It is usually best to then purchase their own shoes & bowls but we have a notice board that has often got sets of bowls for sale so it’s not hugely expensive to get set up. The requirement for clothing is a white top and grey or black trousers (or skirts for ladies if preferred) and shorts if it’s hot!” adds Jane.
“We have a group come each week from MS Swale (Multiple Sclerosis) and we have several wheelchairs that they use so they too can get to enjoy our sport.
“We do pride ourselves on being a friendly, welcoming club. A community of kindred spirits playing a sport we love with laughter very often being heard from the bowls green. We have a well-stocked bar and a lovely seating area to sit and watch.
“BOWLS IS NOT AN OLD MAN’S GAME! Anyone interested should come along and give it a try, it can be quite easy when you get the hang of it, but also frustrating!”