Adaptive Boccia Rules
The main goal of boccia is to propel balls as close as possible to the white target ball, known as the Jack. It is a sport of precision, control, and accuracy, similar to curling or lawn bowling.
Game Format
Match Types
- Individual: 1 vs 1 — each player has 6 balls.
- Pairs: 2 vs 2 — each player has 3 balls.
- Teams: 3 vs 3 — each player has 2 balls.
- Total Balls: 13 in total — 6 red, 6 blue, and 1 white Jack.
Gameplay Structure
- Ends:
- 4 ends in individual and pairs matches.
- 6 ends in team matches.
Each player or team has a chance to throw the Jack once.
- Starting an End: The end begins when the Jack is propelled (thrown, rolled, or kicked). Players then take turns throwing all red and blue balls toward the Jack.
- Scoring: Points are awarded at the end of each end based on which side’s balls are closest to the Jack.
Equipment & Adaptations
- Players may throw, roll, or kick the ball.
- If a player cannot use their hands or feet, they may use a ramp.
- Players who cannot release the ball manually may use a head or hand pointer to propel it.
Court Setup
- Boccia is played indoors on a court similar in size to a badminton court.
- The court includes six throwing boxes, one for each athlete.
- Players must remain within their designated box during their turn.
Additional Information
- Boccia is a co-ed Paralympic sport requiring strategy, mental foresight, and coordination.
- It was introduced to the Paralympic Games in 1984 and is now played in over 50 countries worldwide.