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Contact Boccia England

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Phone

0115 967 8455  

Location

Regus, Herald Way, Pegasus Business Park, Castle Donington DE74 2TZ

FAQ

Frequently Asked

About Boccia

What is Boccia?

Boccia is the most inclusive sport in the world.

It is a precision ball sport, similar to bowls or pétanque, played indoors from a seated position. It is a Paralympic sport designed specifically for athletes with physical disabilities that affect motor skills.

Who can play Boccia?

Boccia is fully inclusive and can be played by anyone, regardless of age, ability, or experience. It is particularly popular among people with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and other physical or neurological conditions.

Do I need to use a wheelchair to play?

No. While many players do use wheelchairs, anyone can play boccia. Everyone plays the game seated, whether in a wheelchair or on a seat. Adapted equipment, such as ramps, is available for those who need assistance to project the ball onto court.

Getting Involved

How can I try boccia for the first time?

You can find local clubs and community sessions through Boccia England’s Club Finder tool or by contacting us directly for guidance on where to start.

Many people play boccia for the first time in school, and the School Games is a great way for children to try the sport. You might also like to come to one of our new Heathcoat Cup Festivals, which are designed for new and social players to play the game in a friendly and supportive environment – see our events page for more information.

Do I need special equipment to get started?

Not at first—most clubs provide boccia balls and ramps for beginners. If you continue playing, you may want to purchase your own equipment.

Is boccia suitable for children?

Yes! Boccia is a fun, accessible sport for children of all abilities. Many schools and youth clubs already run sessions, and Boccia England provides resources to help teachers and coaches deliver the sport.

Many people play boccia for the first time in school, and the School Games is a great way for children to try the sport. You might also like to come to one of our new Heathcoat Cup Festivals, which are designed for new and social players to play the game in a friendly and supportive environment – see our events page for more information.

Competition & Pathways

Are there competitions I can take part in?

Yes. Boccia England runs competitions at all levels, from local club events to national championships. There are also international pathways for elite athletes.

Our National Championships are now for all classifications of player, from BC1 to BC8. Qualifying competitions run from April to July, with finals in September.

We also organise team competitions for clubs across England. The National League is open to all clubs, whilst the Super League is for the top eight teams nationally.

How do I become a competitive boccia player?

Start by joining a local club and entering regional competitions. If you progress, you could be talent-spotted for the Boccia England Pathway Programme, which supports athletes aiming for national and international success.

Is boccia a Paralympic sport?

Yes. Boccia has been part of the Paralympic Games since 1984 and is one of only a few sports designed exclusively for athletes with disabilities.

Volunteering & Coaching

How can I volunteer with Boccia England?

Like every sport, boccia is reliant on volunteers to support at every level. There are many opportunities to volunteer with us – as a referee, coach, event helper, classifier, or club supporter. You can sign up through our Volunteering page.

Can I train to become a boccia coach?

Yes. Boccia England offers coach education courses at various levels, from introductory sessions to advanced coaching qualifications. Our Boccia Leaders Award is a three-hour workshop that provides a great introduction to both coaching and officiating. More information can be found on our coaching page.

Do referees need specialist training?

Yes. Boccia referees receive training to ensure they understand the sport’s rules and classifications. Boccia England runs regular referee courses. More information can be found – insert link

Membership & Support

Do I need to be a member to play boccia?

You don’t need to be a member to try boccia casually, but membership gives you access to competitions, insurance, resources, and the chance to be part of the Boccia England community.

How much does membership cost?

Membership starts at just £7.50 for 12 months, and is available for everyone involved in our sport, whether you are a player, coach, volunteer or club). Prices vary—see our Membership page for details.

How can I support Boccia England?

You can support by becoming a member, volunteering, donating, fundraising, or partnering with us. Every contribution helps us grow the sport. Contact us to discuss options in more detail – info@bocciaengland.org.uk

Accessibility & Inclusion

Is boccia accessible for people with complex disabilities?

Yes. Boccia is the most inclusive sports in the world. The sport was sport designed specifically for athletes with physical disabilities that affect motor skills. The rules, assistive devices like ramps, and classification system help to ensure fair play and accessibility.

Can family members or carers get involved?

Absolutely. Family members often play a key role in supporting players and can get involved as volunteers, assistants, or even players themselves.

Boccia England

How is Boccia England funded?

Our principal source of funding is from Sport England, for whom we are a ‘System Partner’. Our current agreement with Sport England runs until March 2027.

Other sources of funding are membership fees from individuals and clubs, event entry fees, grants and donations, shop sales, and from commercial partners.

If you would like to support us, please contact us – info@bocciaengland.org.uk

Is Boccia England a charity?

Yes, as well as being the National Governing Body for boccia across England, Boccia England is also a registered charity. Our charity number is 1139174.

We welcome donations and charitable support. Please contact us to discuss ideas – info@bocciaengland.org.uk

Who runs Boccia England?

Our Board of Trustees is responsible for the strategic direction of Boccia England and oversight of our operations. The Board is led by our Chair, Mark Gannon.

The staff team is led by Will Evans, our Chief Executive Officer. You can read more about our team here.

Where is Boccia England based?

Our staff team is based remotely across the country. However, we do have a registered office, where you can send post to us – Boccia England, Regus House, Nottingham East Midlands Airport, Herald Way, Pegasus Business Park, Castle Donington, DE74 2TZ