Lesson 6: Technique for Success & Competitive Bowls

 Delivery Technique

Champion bowlers show great diversity in delivery technique. No single method of delivery has proved so superior over time as to become a model that bowlers generally have felt obliged to emulate. Below describes some options available in shaping technique. Beginner bowlers should feel free to experiment with the suggested options and adopt the one that feels more natural and is more effective for them. Once bowlers begin the process of improving and automating technique, they should discontinue further experimentation with it.

 Temperament

The similarities among top bowlers exist more in temperament than in their delivery techniques. Components of temperament may be stated in terms of seven Cs. Concentration is the ability to narrow one's focus to factors of immediate importance, and to ignore distractions. Confidence is the outcome of positive self-affirmation, and of achieving improving personal bests rather than winning at all costs. Commitment is the will to set goals for practice and competition. Calmness is the ability to neutralise stress in tight situations. Creativity is about seeing the ideal shot, and to recognise tactical opportunities. Common sense is the capacity to make intelligent corrections to poor deliveries, and to avoid destructive bickering with team mates. Consistency is about avoiding variations to controlled technique when faced with a difficult shot or during the excitement of competition.

 Beyond the Basics

Few bowlers would forget their first game as lead in the lowest grade of pennant competition. Only a few bowlers achieve promotion easier from there by stepping sideways through the skip position than by steadily climbing through the lead positions in higher grades of pennant. Before moving sideways, competent leads should ensure that the scope for climbing upward has diminished.

Just about all novices engage in graded singles games, or play the third (and lead) position in pairs games quite early in their careers. Understandably new tactical situations confront them. Development of necessary new skills is easier if a bowler receives help from a coach or an experienced player. Should help be unavailable, a bowler can master the new skills through persistent and intelligent practice. One point for novices to remember is that all the special shots are merely draw shots in disguise. Nearly all the shots merely require a draw to an imaginary jack.