Bocce

Bocce is a ball sport in the boules family with origins in Italy. The game is played by two players or teams who take turns throwing or rolling bocce balls toward a smaller target ball, the pallino (also called the jack). The objective is to place more balls closer to the pallino than the opponent.

Equipment and playing area: A standard set includes eight large balls and one lighter pallino. Balls are typically colored and made of resin or a similar material. They are thrown on natural soil, asphalt, grass, or on purpose-built bocce courts, which vary in size but are generally long and narrow. The term bocce can refer to the game itself and to the balls used.

Play and scoring: Players or teams alternate throws. After all balls have been played, the team with balls closer to the pallino than the opponent’s nearest ball scores one point for each ball meeting that criterion. A game is usually divided into ends or frames, and matches are commonly played to a fixed score, such as 12 or 15 points.

Techniques and strategy: Common throws include rolling or drawing shots intended to come to rest near the pallino, as well as hit shots that displace opponent balls or open a path to the pallino. Blocking and precise positioning are key strategic elements, as players seek to control the playing area and minimize opportunities for the opposition.

Variations and governance: Bocce is played worldwide and has regional rule variations. It is related to other boules games such as pétanque and traditional lawn bowls, but differs in equipment and court setup. International and national bodies organize competitions and help standardize rules.