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New boccia club opens on west coast

22nd September 2008

Boccia, pronounced “Botcha” is a sport similar to bowls for athletes with a disability. Boccia can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three. The aim of the game is to throw leather balls - coloured red or blue - as close as you can to a white target ball, or jack. The balls can be moved with hands or feet, or, sometimes, with an assistive device. The game was originally designed as a sport for those with severe cerebral palsy. It has now developed into a game played by many sections of the community - and from a purely recreational level up to the intensely competitive Paralympics.

A new club has been set up after a successful festival was held last year aimed at encouraging disabled young people to take up sport. It is part of the national programme – Playground to Podium, which aims to develop sporting opportunities for disabled people leading up to London 2012 Paralympics.

Whatever level of Boccia you are looking for you are very welcome to come and join in! Whether you are looking for enjoyment, social experience, participation or progression to a competitive standard, the club will be able to cater for your needs.

Come and learn the game of Boccia. Get coaching from an experienced Boccia Coach. Players that attend the Boccia club will have the opportunity to play for fun or train for future competitions.

This club is open to all regardless of your ability and age groups. The first session will be on Tuesday 11th November and then every Tuesday thereafter at Whitehaven Sports Centre from 4pm until 5pm. The cost will be £1.50 per session.

If you require any more information then please do not hesitate to contact us. Contact Claire Buckle (Sports Development Officer for Copeland Borough Council) on 01946 593043 or email cbuckle@copeland.gov.uk.

We look forward to seeing you all there!