Do you want to play boccia but are unsure if you can team up with others? Most people wonder the same thing. This article aims to answer your question about how many players can fit in one boccia team.
Boccia is usually played in pairs or in groups. If you want to play in pairs, each team is comprised of two players only. But if you are playing in a team competition, a group can have three players.
Below, we’ll show you why teams usually have a maximum of three players. We’ll also cover the basics of playing boccia.
How Many Players in a Boccia Team?
Boccia is a popular ball game among individuals with disabilities. Although it can be played individually, the sport is more enjoyable when participating in pair and team events.
A boccia team can have two players, and each person gets to throw three balls (total of six balls to throw).
But in most team games, there are usually three players in each group. They take alternate turns throwing the balls (two for each player) into the court.
Of course, variations and adaptations of the sport exist. As such, teams can have more than three players. These are common in more casual games. The group can also collectively decide on each throw rather than players taking alternate throwing turns.
Three players in a boccia team seems the norm, though. Most organizations don’t give a reason for this standard. But if we have to guess, three members in each team make it easier to move around the court without the risk of crowding. Some individuals will have assistive devices to help them make the shot. So, by limiting the number of players in each team, sports organizers can ensure a comfortable space for everyone to play in.
How to Play Boccia?
Boccia is an inclusive ball sport that is fairly easy to play.
The objective of the game is to toss twelve colored balls (six blue balls and red balls) toward a white ball, which is called the jack.
As mentioned, boccia can be played individually, in pairs, or in teams. The balls are divided equally among the participants.
Before the game begins, players must flip or toss a coin to determine which group has the first turn.
The team that won the coin toss will throw the jack (white target ball) onto the court. The same person who threw the jack will propel the boccia balls towards the playing area. They can touch the ball with their hands, feet, or head. Some players, especially those with severe disabilities, can use assistive devices. These include ramps and pointers attached to the head or mouth of the player.
The opposing team plays next, aiming to get nearer to the jack than the opponent’s closest ball.
Players continue to take alternate turns throwing the boccia balls. They use different strategies to increase their team’s advantage and prevent the other group from getting closer to the jack. For example, some players will use their turn to knock the opponent’s ball away from the target. This strategy can be a little risky, though, because you might end up moving the ball closer to the target. Another strategic move worth taking note of is blocking the way of the opponents.
After all their balls are in play, the round or end is considered complete. An official referee measures the distance of the balls nearest the jack ball and gives points accordingly. A team gains one point for each ball that is closer to the jack than the opponent’s nearest ball.
Another round starts and continues until the teams complete the required number of ends. Team matches can last up to six ends or rounds.
At the end of the play, the team with the most points wins the boccia game.
What Are the Different Boccia Classifications?
Boccia players are divided into four classifications based on their functional ability and disability.
- BC1: These athletes have cerebral palsy, but they can use their hands or feet to throw the ball. BC1 players are allowed to play with an assistant who stays outside of the playing area. The aide can pass their ball or adjust their playing chair before each shot.
- BC2: This boccia classification also includes players with cerebral palsy. However, they have greater functional ability than a BC1 athlete. As such, they do not need an assistant in the court.
- BC3: These players have severe locomotor dysfunction in all four extremities. They are unable to throw or kick a ball into play, so they can use an assistive device, such as a ramp, to make the shot. Individuals of the BC3 class can also play with an assistant, who must keep their back to the court.
- BC4: Players of this class do not have cerebral palsy, but they suffer from locomotor dysfunction. However, they demonstrate sufficient dexterity. They do not require assistance when tossing the ball.
Conclusion
Boccia is a fun team sport. Each group can have two athletes for a paired competition or three players for team games. These individuals take alternate turns throwing six balls toward the white ball. However, in some boccia variations, the team can collectively decide on each throw.
Do you want to learn more about boccia? Feel free to visit our blog page for more information about this inclusive sport!
