Friendly Matches

Friendly matches against other local clubs are a great way to gain experience of competitive bowls while still enjoying a fun and social atmosphere. Open to members of all ages and abilities.

The friendly way to play competitive bowls

Friendly matches against other local clubs are a great way to experience competitive bowls while maintaining the enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere that is at the heart of our club. These fixtures provide an opportunity to test your skills against different opponents, play on a variety of greens, and gain confidence in match situations without the pressure often associated with league or knockout competitions.

Open to members of all ages and abilities, friendly matches are an excellent stepping stone for those considering more competitive bowls, as well as a popular choice for experienced players who enjoy representing the club. New members are particularly encouraged to take part, with support and guidance always available from more experienced bowlers.

As well as the bowling itself, these matches are a great social occasion, helping to build friendships within the club and strengthen relationships with neighbouring clubs. Whether playing at home or away, friendly matches offer enjoyable competition, good company, and an excellent day out for everyone involved.

  • Teams are selected from club members, with each team of three players competing against a team from a visiting or host club. Matches are usually played over a set number of ends, typically 18 or 21.

    Traditionally, the home team offers the first jack to the opposition as a gesture of sporting courtesy. Each team competes to achieve the highest score on their rink, with the winning team being the one that scores the most shots over the agreed number of ends.

    While individual rink results are important, the overall match result is determined by combining the scores from all participating teams. The club with the highest aggregate score across all rinks is declared the overall winner.

  • Friendly matches are advertised on the club noticeboards throughout the season. Members who would like to be considered for selection should add their name to the relevant team sheet before the closing date.

    Teams are selected by the President or Vice President, who will aim to provide opportunities for members of all abilities while ensuring balanced and competitive teams. Once selected, team details will be displayed on the club noticeboards and may also be published on the club's Facebook page.

  • The location and time will be provided on the team sheet. Matches are played at home in Mansfield or at other bowls clubs in the North Notts area.

    Most matches are played in the evening through the summer season.

  • Club polo shirt and grey trousers/shorts/skirt

  • Free to bowling members

  • President or Vice President

These fixtures are for our friendly matches with other clubs. As changes can sometimes occur, please keep an eye on our Facebook page for any updates and check the Weekly Events Guide, sent out at the start of each week, for the latest information.

Location information is found here.