What's it all about?

Boccia was originally designed as a sport for those with severe cerebral palsy. It has now developed into a game played by many sections of the community - and from a purely recreational level up to the intensely competitive Paralympics.

The aim of the game is to propel a set of coloured balls and position them closer to a white 'marker' ball than those of your opponent. This white ball is called the 'jack', hence the game is similar in context to Bowls, Petanque or even French Boules.

The game MUST be played from a seated position, which makes it ideal for either manual or motorised wheelchair users.

The balls have to be propelled by each competitor. This may include throwing, rolling or even kicking a ball into the playing area.

If players are unable to throw or kick the ball, they have the option to use what is termed an 'assistive device'. Such devices are commonly known as 'ramps' or 'chutes'. For those unable to release a ball down a chute with their hand, there is also provision for them to use a 'head pointer'.