Bowl Abilities

Bowl Abilities is an inclusive program designed specifically for older teens and adults to learn the basic skills of tenpin bowling, socialise and increase activity levels.

Bowl Abilities is a 6-8 WEEK program that focuses on the participant’s ABILITY. The learning of fundamental skills of tenpin bowling improves co-ordination, balance, and physical activity levels. A pathway to further your bowling dreams, aspire to represent your state, country, or just beat your best friend!

The program is run in a safe environment with lots of fun and encouragement. The use of carpets on the lanes gets participants up to nine metres closer to the pins and a modified 5-frame game and simplified scoring system promotes skill development, a sense of achievement and self-confidence.

Follow along via @BowlAbilitiesAus on Facebook and Instagram.

Find out more about Bowl Abilities at www.bowlabilities.com.au

“This is an amazing program that provides ample opportunities to participants in areas of leadership, social participation and physical activity. I would recommend the program to anyone looking to not only improve their bowling skills, but also looking to make meaningful connections, friendships and build their self-esteem and confidence to thrive across all areas of life.”

Beth Hasell – Community Capacity Builder – Local Area Coordinator, APM Communities, Rockingham
Bowl Abilities with Reclink at Zone Bowling Cross Roads, South Australia

Program Features

  • 6-8 WEEK PROGRAM: 60 minute sessions, once per week
  • ON THE MOVE: Maximum of 3 participants per lane so they are always active
  • SHORTENED LANES: Modified length to match ability of each participants
  • SHORTENED GAMES: Modified 5-frame games (half a normal game) to keep participants focused
  • CHALLENGING: No bumpers or ramps used (unless absolutely necessary) to ensure skill development
  • 6 LEVELS of ACHIEVEMENT: progression based on ABILITY
  • MODIFIED SCORING: Simplified scoring designed to be easily understood
  • LANE RANGERS: Program delivered by trained facilitators, who have completed training and experience coaching participants with disability. A great pathway for trainee coaches to develop. Lane Rangers are also encouraged to complete Special Olympics Australia’s online coaching courses.
  • REWARDING: Recognition of individual achievements and progress
  • SUPPORT: support resources developed with assistance from Special Olympics Australia, Scope Australia, Aspect Australia and others to assist delivery and communication.

    Support Workers including carers and interested learner bowlers should explore Lane Ranger training for more opportunity to provide quality learning experience and a pathway to more bowling opportunities!

“The program has been fantastic for our student’s confidence and acceptance that you don’t have to be perfect to be able to teach someone the basics of a sport and be involved.”

Jacqui Jones – Transition Officer (School-beyond) at Warnbro Education Support Centre

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