Suggestions for Approaching People about Lawn Bowling
These general talking points will help bowlers recruit members at events outside the club. They can also be used when talking to family, friends or a passerby at the club. (Invite a passerby to try rolling a bowl immediately.)
At recruiting events, dress so people will view lawn bowling as a sport. Wear your nametag. Wear your “Ontario” shirts, etc. if you have won a Provincial competition.
Try not to sit back passively and wait for people to approach you; approach them with a bowl and let them hold it while talking about lawn bowling.
Show enthusiasm for the game and emphasize that it is a great sport for a summer afternoon or evening. Remember:
Most bowlers join initially for the social and fun aspects, so make sure they get a warm social welcome.
Most people are shy around a new sport. So encourage them to try it with their friends and families.
Briefly explain the game:
* The bowls are not round and curl when rolled;
* You score by getting your bowl closest to the jack (show them a jack);
* It is played by over 100 clubs in Ontario;
* It is played by people of all ages.
Tell them where your club is and when there is bowls.
Tell them about the free training that you offer.
Tell them they only need flat soled shoes to start.
Give a flyer to all visitors who are interested. At events that are not held during the bowling season, ask people if they think they’d like to try it outdoors in the spring. “We’re having an Open House next spring for people in the community so they can try rolling bowls. Do you think you’d like to come?”
Ask: “Would you like me to take your name now and give you a call in the spring so you don’t get left out?” Hand them a clipboard with other names on it (so they’ll feel like they’re part of a larger, interested group) and get their name/phone/e-mail address.
Practise makes perfect.
