Term Three is well underway, and the Bowls Auckland Rangatahi Roll Up programme is busier than ever!

Over the past five weeks, nearly 1,000 young people have been introduced to bowls – and the best bit is… they’re loving it!

This term, the programme has expanded to include intermediate schools, with ākonga (students) from Avondale and Howick getting the chance to give bowls a go. For some, the opportunity has come with a little extra excitement after seeing bowls on the world stage at the Commonwealth Games.

Growing the All-Abilities game

The All-Abilities side of Rangatahi Roll Up is also continuing to grow.

Last week, alongside Central Auckland Specialist School (CASS) and New Lynn Bowling Club, we held our fourth All-Abilities tournament for CASS students. This time, indoor bowls was added to the mix, with each school now equipped with a set of bowls and a mat thanks to the generous support of Ellerslie Bowling Club.

The standard of play continues to improve with every tournament, but it is the friendships, encouragement and plenty of good-natured banter around the sidelines that really make the day.

Our partnership with CASS has also highlighted just how beneficial bowls can be for students of all abilities, inspiring us to connect with more specialist schools across the region.

This term, students from Sommerville School and its satellite classes throughout East Auckland are also getting the opportunity to have a go at bowls. With the help of our All-Abilities Rookie Roller kits, students who use wheelchairs or walkers can take part alongside their classmates, proving that bowls really can be a game for everyone.

Taking bowls out into the community

Bowls Auckland was also delighted to take part in the recent Healthy Active Learning Opportunities Expo hosted by Tuia Waitākere.

The event brought together 17 organisations supporting schools across West Auckland, allowing teachers and students to connect with providers and discover new ways to help young people lead healthy, active lives.

It was a great opportunity to share the benefits of bowls and show just how accessible, inclusive and enjoyable the game can be.

With nearly 1,000 young people already rolling up this term, plenty of new schools joining the programme and more opportunities being created for students of all abilities, Rangatahi Roll Up continues to build momentum, one bowl at a time!

👉Read more about the Healthy Active Learning Opportunities Expo