Back in January, we launched a consultation on proposals for the future of our competition programme and schedule
You can read the original post and the accompanying slide deck here – Competition Review Launched.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the survey and share your views. We greatly appreciate your input.The feedback was broadly supportive of the ideas presented, and we’re now working through the details of how to implement the proposals.Naturally, these changes will bring some adjustments to the programme in the coming years, but we firmly believe they will help us to grow participation in our sport while also enhancing the experience for everyone involved—players, coaches, and officials alike.
Headline Proposals
- National Championships for All Eight Classifications (from 2026 onwards)
- BC1–BC4 will continue as they currently do.
- BC5–BC8 will shift from the current Heathcoat Cup format to a new National Championship structure
- Heathcoat Cup to Become “Heathcoat Cup Festivals”
- These events will focus on being fun, entry-level experiences to encourage new and developing players (and officials) to get involved.
- Revised Seasonal Structure
- Individual qualifying for all National Championship events will begin in April 2026 and conclude by the end of July.
- The National Championship Finals will take place in September, with progression (where appropriate) to the UK Championships in November/December.
- Increased Access to Qualifying Events
- More events will be introduced across a wider national footprint, with a long-term goal of increasing locally delivered opportunities.
- National League and Super League
- These competitions will continue in their current formats.
We understand that there may be questions about these proposals, and we’re committed to keeping you informed as we move through the planning stages. Look out for further updates as we shape the future of competition together.
If you have any immediate questions, please contact us – competition@boccianengland.org.uk