Bocce is a game of skill and strategy. There may be anywhere from two to four to eight players in a game. Each player is given two balls (boccia) and then must take turns rolling (lagging) the ball toward the pallino ball (the smallest ball), which has already been thrown onto the field. The players are given points for the balls thrown closest to the pallino ball. Players may also throw on the fly (volo), striking the ball to move the point ball. Balls, including the pallino, may also be displaced by the balls of other players.

According to the Special Olympics census, there are approximately 9,502 athletes participating in this sport around the world. The athletes training and competing in this and other Special Olympics sports are provided with a safe, quality and dignified sports environment with numerous competitive opportunities. Training for local, state, regional and national competitions provides all athletes with opportunities for success.

WORLD GAMES HISTORY
Greek colonists brought Bocce with them to what is now modern Italy. It was Giussepi Garibaldi, who, while unifying and nationalizing Italy, popularized the sport, as it is known today. Bocce frequently lost and gained popularity throughout the ages. In 1896, during a resurgence of popularity, the first Bocce Olympiad was held in Athens, Greece. Bocce has been a part of international sports ever since. Bocce is one of Special Olympics newer sports, having being introduced at the World Games level for the first time in 1991. In 1999, Raleigh, North Carolina hosted the Special Olympics World Summer Games with 189 athletes from 33 countries participating in bocce.

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Coaches Resources

International Governing Body:   http://www.specialolympics.org

US Governing Body:          http://www.specialolympics.org

Coaches Bocce Guide