March 2026
BOWLS’ BIG SUMMER IS COMING…
The countdown to Bowls’ Big Summer is ON.
Why Bowls’ Big Summer?
We know that recruitment of new players is the top priority for our clubs.Bowls’ Big Summer is a new national initiative to enable all bowls clubs to capture new participants this season, with a focus on introducing potential players to bowls through traditional recruitment at the start of the season and welcoming those who want to give bowls a go at your club during the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games in July/August.
How can your club get involved?
1. Host Open Days
Capture new audiences who have been inspired to try bowls either through your Open Day adverts or by our fantastic Commonwealth Games stars.
2. Use Our Club Resources
Publicise your club’s open day/s – these can be held at any time to suit you throughout the season. Check out all available Bowls’ Big Summer resources and sign up for your free account at: bowlsengland.myprintdesk.net/home
3. Update your club’s details on Play-Bowls.com
So that new people can easily find your club: play-bowls.com
4. Advertise vacant rink space on Play-Bowls.com
Casual players can ‘pay and play’ – generating much-needed income for your club and providing greater opportunity to attract new players.
5. Sign up as a Bowls Bash accredited club
Our casual version of bowls is fun, sociable and for everyone! Find out more at: www.bowlsengland.com/becoming-a-bowls-bash-club
6. Order our ‘Guidance for New Bowlers’
To ensure your new participants have a simple guide to take away with them after their visit to your club, go to: bowlsengland.myprintdesk.net/category/bowls-publications/59
What help is available from Bowls England?
Bowls England has created free digital resources that your club can tailor and publish on its social channels. You can also create posters, leaflets and banners to advertise your club within the local community. Bowls England is also working collaboratively with the Bowls Development Alliance, British Crown Green Bowls Association, English Indoor Bowling Association and English Short Mat Bowls Association to deliver a national bowls marketing campaign this season, with a focus on maximising media interest during the Commonwealth Games.
Want to find out more?
Bowls England are hosting three live online sessions in March.
Join these sessions to discover how your club can make the most of Bowls’ Big Summer and recruit new members.
Session dates and times are:
Wednesday 18th March – 10am – 11am
Tuesday 24th March – 6pm – 7pm
Friday 27th March – 1pm – 2pm
Register your interest for the latest updates for your club direct from Bowls England at: r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/6UDT-L8L/bowlsbigsummer26?dm_i=6UDT,2SJVT,ZAL2,7RSH2,1,0,0,0