History of Bocce Ball:
Bocce Ball, has evolved over a very long period of time. The basics of the game
however, can be traced back to similar games that were played in Egypt around
5000 BC. Records dating to the 3rd century BC also indicate the popularity of
a Bocce-like game with the Roman soldiers. With the spread of the Roman Empire,
this game spread throughout the European continent, Asia and North Africa.
Bocce Ball, best known in Italy, is one of the oldest of all lawn or yard games.
It is recently gaining popularity in North America since it can be played by
people of all ages and on a great variety of surfaces. Bocce is played between
two players or two teams of up to four players on a team.
Bocce Ball Playing Surfaces:
Bocce Ball can be played on a variety of surfaces such as: Bocce Ball Courts,
Beach Sand and Yards or Parks. A large area is needed in order to make the
game more challenging. An actual Bocce Ball court measures 76 feet long and
12 feet wide. The game however is just as much fun without the court.
Bocce Ball Scoring:
When all balls have been thrown, the teams shall proceed to measure the distance
of the balls from the Jack. Each teams ball that is closer to the target ball
than the nearest ball of the opposing team, scores 1 point. Games are played
to a set point total usually 12, 15 or 21.
How To Play Bocce Ball (Beach or Backyard Rules):
The object is to score the most points by ending each frame
with your color balls closest to the Pallino. A coin toss determines who will
play first. To start the game on team or person throws the Pallino at least halfway
down the designated playing area. The same person who tossed the Pallino then
throws the one Bocce Ball trying to get it as close to the Pallino as possible.
The next team then throws one ball trying to get closer than the first team. If
team two gets closer, then it is Team one’s turn. If Team Two’s ball does not
come closer then they continue to throw until they get a ball closer to the Pallino
or until they are out of balls. Then Team One throws the reminder of their bocce
balls. You can knock your opponent’s balls away from the Pallino to increase your
score.
