Tips for Skips

Be a skip that everyone wants to “play with” instead of “play for”.

• Enjoyment, Tolerance and Respect are the keywords.

• Remember you may be playing with bowlers who are not conversant with accepted practices. This also applies to those playing at No.3.

• It is not “what you say” but “how you say it”.

• Never “tell” always “ask”.

• It is a team game. Encourage all your team members to be involved (how else will they learn?)

• Don’t be exclusive about “the head”. All players contribute. This also applies to those playing at No.3

• Consult and involve your No.3. Listen to all opinions then make up your own mind. There is only one skip. Play the shot that suits you.

• Be conversant with the rule concerning 'possession of the rink'. Know when you can give guidance and when you can ask for guidance. (The rink is only yours until the bowl comes to rest).

• Know the difference between The Laws and accepted practices. Rules and accepted practices are for the guidance of wise man and the slavish obedience of fools.

• Your attitude on the rink will be very influential on the enjoyment of all theplayers on the rink. Skipping is a rewarding and a demanding pleasure.

• These “tips” are taken from a variety of Bowls books and coaching manuals.