Initiative nurtures a passion for lawn bowls among youth

-By John Perfect (Umbilo)

Winners Cebo Mthembu, Ntokozo Shezi and Deon Williams with John Perfect (Photo: Tammy Sholto-Douglas)

However, John Perfect and his Youth Bowls regulars are swiftly dismantling this stereotype, proving that the greens are a vibrant arena for the younger generation.

The Youth Bowls Tournament held at Queens Bowling Club on Saturday, February 23, was a testament to this paradigm shift. Forty-six youth, all under 21, gathered for a day of intense competition.

The attendees showcased remarkable skill and enthusiasm, leaving in their wake the hope of future emerging champions. John Perfect's initiative has breathed new life into the sport, cultivating talent and nurturing a passion for lawn bowls among the youth.

PNB President, Steve Kelf, who attended the Youth Bowls Tournament three months ago, and again on Saturday was astounded by the remarkable improvement in the standard of play demonstrated by the young participants. Perfect recognises that his responsibilities are made more manageable with the support of coaches Michelle Tovey, Mari Clark, Mark Bryant, Dave Patterson and the numerous knowledgeable parent-bowlers who generously contribute their expertise to the youth.

With a mere four weeks of bowling under their belts Cebo Mthembu and Ntokozo Shezi teamed up with the more seasoned bowler Deon Williams to claim the top spot and the first prize for the day. Championing for the ladies, Veronica Wrathmall and siblings Charace and Charne la Cordier secured the second spot, underscoring the depth of emerging talent. Worth mentioning is the achievement of Miah Ertekes, MJ Buck and Caira Bloem, a team comprising youngsters all under the age of twelve, who finished the day in the prizes.

This youth initiative could be a game-changer for Port Natal Bowls, addressing a historical gap in their structure by producing players capable of representing the district in the Bowls South Africa under 15, 18, and the under-25 Inter- District Championship.

PNB, having struggled to field competitive teams in these categories, sees a promising future if these young bowlers persist with their efforts and continue to hone their skills by practicing with their club coaches. A noteworthy aspect of youth bowls is the exemption of registered scholars from affiliation fees to both Port Natal Bowls and Bowls South Africa. This financial relief makes the sport an accessible option for those interested in mastering the intricacies of the bias. Credit is due to John Perfect for his forward-thinking initiative, aligning with the global trend of introducing the younger generation to the challenges of the game.

With its strategic depth and requirement for mental strength, lawn bowls is often referred to as the chess of the sports field and appears to be capturing the hearts and minds of a new, dynamic generation. Bluff Bowling Club is looking to fill a few gaps in the field for their Men’s Fours Tournament which will be held on 9 and 10 March this year.

Teams can enter through Bryan Weldon 071 454 4822 or Kevin Olivier 061 045 6159.