JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OF THE YEAR
Great news from the Annual Bowls England Awards evening as Sue Waller’s great work in the That’s How We Roll project was recognised as Junior Development Programmer Of The Year award.
Sue Waller & That’s How We Roll 24 BC, Durham
That’s How We Roll 24 BC, formed in 2025, is believed to be the first children’s bowls club in the UK, providing opportunities for ages 4–17 across Durham.
The club runs regular sessions combining social and competitive bowls, including open days, school holiday programmes, mini competitions, and tours of multiple greens to engage children from a wide area. Participation continues to grow, with regular attendance of up to 30 children per session.
The club has secured fully trained Level 1 and 2 coaches, including social workers and teachers, ensuring safeguarding compliance. Funding and donations have provided age-appropriate equipment, now shared with five Darlington clubs, and supported participation in national and county competitions. Achievements include an England U18 bowler, six County representatives (one as young as seven), and four County Champions—all developed through the club’s programmes.
THWR24 BC has partnered with schools, community organisations, and other bowls clubs to expand access, running inclusive sessions and promoting the sport across multiple towns. The club is extending operations to Chilton, restoring a derelict green with the support of the local councillor and Welfare Trust, creating a dedicated base for community bowls, family days, and competitions. This expansion aims to reintroduce bowls to areas where clubs have closed over the past 20 years, including Chilton, Aycliffe, and Ferryhill.
Innovative approaches, including AI-assisted marketing and online booking, alongside volunteer-led competitions such as Bowls Blitz and family tournaments, have boosted engagement and attracted non-members. THWR24 BC acts as a feeder for local clubs and Durham County, producing talented young players while maintaining a focus on fun, participation, and community involvement.
By combining coaching, competitions, inclusive access, school partnerships, and multi-site expansion, THWR24 BC has created a pioneering, sustainable model for junior bowls. The club demonstrates the potential of youth-focused development to grow the sport, inspire new players, and strengthen bowls communities across Durham.