The game of Boccia (pronounced ‘Bot-cha’) originated in Greece, where players threw large stones at a stone target. Its name is derived from the Latin word for ball – bottia. It was originally designed for people with severe cerebral palsy but is now enjoyed by players from many sectors of the community.
In 1984 it became a Paralympic sport, and is being practiced in over 50 countries worldwide, from a purely recreational level to a variety of competitive events. Boccia is a non–contact driven sport which relies upon skill and subtlety of the player rather than their size, speed and strength.
A ball can be propelled by rolling, throwing or kicking. If a player is unable to throw or kick it, they can use a ‘ramp’ (assistive device). If they are unable to release the ball with their hands players can use a head pointer. The performance pathway for Boccia leading to the Paralympics remains purely for those with severe impairment.
Boccia is a Paralympic sport that can be played by anyone, with or without a disability. Originally designed for people with severe cerebral palsy, it is now enjoyed by players with a wide variety of disabilities. It’s easy for a beginner to pick up quickly, but builds in intensity and complexity as players hone their skills. Boccia is a sport of precision, focus and accuracy. It is a complex and technical game where players must employ a great degree of both physical coordination and mental foresight. Boccia was introduced onto the Paralympic program in 1984. Today, it is played in over fifty countries.
The name of Boccia is derived from the Italia word “Bocce” which means “ball”.
■Who can play BOCCIA?
Everyone! In Paralympic and international games Boccia played people with severely(physical) disabled; Cerebral Palsy (CP), Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), Muscle Dystrophy and so on…. But recently Boccia is played everyone together as one of “Inclusive sports” (Universal Sports).
If you can’t throw ball?
No problem. Balls can be rolled or kicked. If a player can’t roll or kick, they can use a ramp. If they can’t let the ball go with their hand, they can use a head or hand pointer.
■How is BOCCIA played?
Boccia is a co-ed sport of control and accuracy, similar to curling or lawn bowling. Games last four or six ends. Players propel balls towards the target or “jack” ball. Each side has six balls (red or blue) per end to try and score points. The closest side to the target ball when all the balls have been played, scores. If the game is tied after all ends have been played, a tie-break end is played. Boccia can be played head to head, in teams of three, or in pairs.
