Over the past couple of years Disability Sport Fife (DSF) has committed to encouraging young people to consider bowls as a sports option. By linking with a number of Fife indoor and outdoor clubs the campaign is starting to pay dividends.
The Dovecot Bowling club in Glenrothes is one of the most committed partnership clubs. Specific club members first signed up for the DSF coach education programme and then offered a series of learning opportunities for players. DSF identified appropriate learners and the project was quickly up and running. The Association of Fife Rotary Clubs provided essential funding to help with club fees and equipment. The club itself offered generous discounted membership rates to DSF members. Young DSF members are now regularly enjoying their inclusive bowling coaching and playing sessions.
Successes have followed for Dovecot bowlers in DSF bowls competitions. Last year Briony Clark made a significant contribution to the Fife Bowls Team at the Inter Area Bowls competition in Fife and two weeks ago at the Beveridge Park Robert Anderson and Sandy Allan won the first Fife titles for Dovecot BC players at the DSF Lawn Bowls Championships. No doubt these will not be the last. Numbers have risen to 7/8 keen enthusiastic young players within a relatively short period.
DSF and Dovecot BC are very proud of this model of inclusive practice that has made a considerable impact in promoting opportunities for novice players with additional support needs. Thank you Dovecot BC members.
Richard Brickley MBE
President, Disability Sport Fife