I'm posting this thread just to see how other clubs go on, not as a criticism!
Most bowls clubs I visit when traveling around playing, dont seem to have any stucture regarding bringing players on through the ranks. Forty years ago, you would start as a lead, until you could confidently draw. But with dwindeling numbers in most bowls clubs, it seems out of necessity, skips are picked that have not served any form of apprenticeship learning how to draw. Many of our older members can remember that time, and regret the lack of good quality skips.
Without that knowledge, it brings in another question when a skip stands at the head, instruction? Few of the newer skips can build a head for attack, or defence, or give precise instrution. As part of their remit, they should understand what the bowls of their team members do, regard to swing. A skips job is also to motivate the team, not just stand at the head and moan about his teammates.
Anyway, I'd love some feedback on what your local clubs like, indoor or outdoor? Does your club still bring players on, have a programme for improvement?
Hi folks. I agree in principle, with the 'earn your stripes' approach, but see that this approach is destined for failure. Given the drop in numbers of new bowlers, to bolster the number of players that play the front end, coupled with the need to have 'someone' as skip, what is the alternative, other than to put someone relatively new to the game, in as skip? I consider myself relatively new to the game. I've been bowling for 5 years and moved into the position of skip (on a regular basis) about 2.5 years ago. Was I ready for it? No. Was there a choice? Not really. I obviously had some skills over an above some more seasoned players, but it was needed in order to put out a team.
That said, I don't consider myself as a typical newbie. I had my nose in the rule book, and was keen to learn not only the rules, but the etiquette of the game. Now there's a real topic for discussion.
As for skills required:
Tactical thinker
Good Communicator
Raises Morale
I see so many skips that are very poor communicators. Talking with their head down to the head. Or speak softly, making it difficult to follow instructions.