Sheffield Smashers Boccia Club

Boccia (pronounced bot-cha) is a Paralympic sport with no Olympic equivalent and is similar to bowls. 

About Boccia

Boccia is a target ball sport which tests both muscle control and accuracy. From a seated position, players propel balls to land as close as possible to a white marker ball, known as the Jack. Two sides compete as individuals, pairs or as a team of three over a set number of ends (4 for individuals and pairs, and 6 for teams).

Each side plays six balls (red or blue) each end. After each end, the athlete, pair or team with the ball closest to the jack receives 1 point plus an additional point for each ball closer to the jack than their opponent's.  Points are accumulated over the course of a match to find a winner. Although simple to get started, the tactics of the sport offer both tension and excitement as the game plays out.

Balls can be rolled down a ramp, thrown or kicked. If a player is unable to release the ball with their hands, they can use assistive devices, such as a head pointer.

About Sheffield Smashers Boccia Club

Smashers practice 5.45pm to 7.15pm every Thursday at Ponds Forge

Tells us about the club?  

We are a weekly boccia club which has been running for nearly 9 years, aimed at people with all types of disability and of all ages. Our main aim for the session is to have fun!

Who does it support and how many people to do you usually engage with weekly?  

Children and adults of all ages and with all disabilities – with approx. 20 people per week attending.

What are the benefits for those who take part? 

This is a great opportunity to learn new skills (or improve your existing boccia skills, if you’ve played before), meet new people and make new friends.

How to get involved

To get involved contact Charlotte at Sheffield Smashers Boccia Club.

Contact number: 0114 2744939 
Contact email: charlotte.faulkner@irwinmitchell.com