We are writing to respectfully suggest a review and possible amendment to the Association’s constitution to promote greater inclusivity, concerning player eligibility by age and supporting clubs with declining memberships.
1) We would firstly like to raise a proposal for your consideration regarding the minimum age per members to participate in association competitions.
Bowls Scotland has taken progressive steps to encourage participation among younger players, recognizing that developing interest at a grassroots level is vital for the future of the sport. In line with their guidance, we propose that the Association consider updating its age-related eligibility criteria to allow participation below the previous minimum age, where appropriate, and in keeping with Bowls Scotland’s recommendations.
By adopting a more inclusive stance on age, the Association can not only nurture upcoming talent but also reflect a forward-thinking, welcoming ethos that can benefit clubs and the wider community alike.
2) We would also like to raise a proposal for your consideration regarding the current team format used in our league competitions.
Considering the ongoing challenges many clubs are facing with declining membership numbers, we suggest that the league consider reducing team sizes from four rinks to three. This adjustment would make it more feasible for clubs with limited player pools to continue participating fully in league fixtures without the strain of fielding a full four-rink team each week.
A move to three rinks could help preserve the integrity and competitiveness of the league by ensuring fixtures are fulfilled consistently and clubs are not forced to withdraw from the league or play short due to insufficient numbers. It may also encourage broader participation, including from newer or smaller clubs– who might currently struggle to consistently field a team.
We appreciate the longstanding traditions and values upheld by the Association, and we believe these proposed amendments would not only strengthen those values by opening the doors to the next generation of bowlers, whilst still supporting all clubs and still maintaining the integrity of the game.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Nolan (Club Secretary)
