Bowls, or lawn bowling as it is known, is a sport that men and women of all ages can play together on an equal basis.
Physical strength plays a small part in this game. Much like curling, skill and strategy are the real factors.
Members enjoy competing in tournaments hosted by our club and at other clubs in the Southeast Division and at the National Level as well. For social bowls (mixed), teams are 2, 3 or 4 people. Since there are no set teams, you are not obligated to be there every day. And, you don't doesn't require a lot of expensive equipment.
We offer free, monthly lawn bowling lessons in the Eberhardt Room at the Club.
Call Bob at 615-848-3549
or sign up online
here.
Monday to Saturday
Morning Bowls Tags in by 8:50AM.
Monday, Thursday and Friday
Suncoaster & Pebble Beach Bowling 1PM.
Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday
Night bowling under the lights, 6:00PM - 8:00PM.
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Croquet set up at 9AM on Green 3.
Every Wednesday
Game night, 6:00 to 9:00PM, in the Eberhardt Room.
Click or touch here
Click or touch here
Upcoming Tournaments (Click or touch for more information)
Tournament inquires can be sent to the Email the Club
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First Place
Andy Davis
Runner Up
Gilles Cayer
First Place
Joe Mignogna
Runner Up
Joe Mattia
First Place
Eric Porr
Runner Up
Nancy Latimer
First Place
Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung
Runner Up
Jim and Donna Blaine
First Place
Sylvain Larocque, Rich Maxedon and Joe Mignogna
Runner Up
Jim Savage, Paddy Lennon and Bob Rosey
First Place
Cindy Higgins, Jenny Myers and Mary Baker
Runner Up
Gail Christie, Jan Conley and Carolyn Ray
First Place
Jerry Healy, Nancy Latimer and Jon Blanchard
Runner Up
Matt Harthcock, Sylvain Larocque and Terry Keen
First Place
Steve Parks, Paddy Lennon and Fred Kalhammer
Runner Up
Larry Johnson, Pam Davis and Jim Blaine
First Place - Women
Cindy Higgins and Cassandra Furlong (SCCLBC)
2nd: Jackie Hall & Jeri Spann (SLBC)
First Place - Men
Wayne Christie and Eric Porr (SSCLBC)
2nd: Brian Myers & Sylvain Larocque (SCCLBC)
First Place
Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung (SCCLBC)
Third Place
John Hall Jackie Hall (Scotland)
Fourth Place
Joe Mattia and Carolyn Ray (SCCLBC)
Fifth Place
Matt Harthcock and Cricket Meixner (SCCLBC)
Last Game High
Mike Perkins and Cassie Krowl (SCCLBC)
Jack Phillips Remembered
Second Place
Larry Johnson and Susan Finn (SCCLBC)
Champion
David Sartwell
Runner-up
Ellen Jones
The Head Bangers
Paddy Lennon, C.J. Maier and Gary Persinger
Awards
Champions: Head Bangers (Bob Mendrala, C.J. Maier, Gary Persinger & Paddy Lennon)
2nd Place: Bowling Stones (Randy McMillian, Rich Maxedon, Karen Turman & Jan Conley)
3rd Place: Lightning Bowls (Barb Turney, Pam Davis, Bob Ferguson & Bob Fladung)
4th Place: Wickers (Larry Bender, Mike Mitchell, Ava Casper & Joe Mignogna)
Overall Club Champion
Paula Larocque
Fan Club
(Runner-up Eric Porr)
Champion
Eric Porr
Runner-up
Bob Fladung
Champion
Paula Lacrocque
Runner-up
Lynn Cranch
Winner
Karen Turman
Runner-up
CJ Maier
Champion
Marge Lange
Runner-up
Barry Brown
Champion
Donna Blaine
Runner-up
Jennifer Myers
First Place
Rick Fitzgerald, Donna Blaine and Jim Blaine
2nd Paula & Sylvain Larocque (SCC) and Cheryl McBain (Maple Leaf)
3rd Lynn Cranch, Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung (SCC)
4th Wayne Martin (Sun n Fun), Wayne Christie and Andy Davis (SCC)
5th Carolyn Ray, Joe Mattia and Paddy Lennon (SCC)
First Place Medals
The Bowlshooters
Eric Porr, Garry Higgins,
Jenny Myers, Captain Cassandra Furlong
Don Prazac (Inset)
Second Place Medals
The Spice Girls
Captain Cindy Higgins, Lynn Cranch,
Paula Larocque, Shelly McCartney,
Karen Turman
Champions
Lynn Cranch & Connie Gilpin
Runner-up
Barb Turney & Ava Casper
Champions
Ken Martucci & Andy Davis
Runner-up
Bob Fladung & Al Pelliccio
Singles Champion
Gilles Cayer
Runner-up
Eric Porr
JuniorChampionship, January 23, 2024
Junior Champion
Cindy Higgins
Runner-up
Wayne Christie
Winner
Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung
Runner-up
Nancy Latimer and Eric Porr
Winner
Paddy Lennon, Brian Myers, Joe Mignogna
Runner-up
Larry Johnson, Terry Keen, Jim Savage
Winner
Karen Turman, Nancy Latimer, Cindy Higgins
Runner-up
Carolyn Ray, Cassandra Furlong, Debbie Davis
Winner
Roy McCartney, Cindy Higgins, Matt Harthcock
Runner-up
Paula Larocque, Eric Porr, Andy Davis
Winner
Gary Houdek, Marge Lange, Andy Davis
Runner-up
Jerry Healy, Connie Gilpin, Michael Mitchell
First Place - Women
Sandy Wall and Cathy Mills (WPLBC)
2nd: Cindy Higgins & Lynn Cranch (SCCLBC)
3rd: Jenny Myers & Paula LaRocque (SCCLBC)
First Place - Men
Bob Fladung and Ken Martucci (SSCLBC)
2nd: Ron Ridley & Bob Rehn (SCCLBC & CLBC)
3rd: Jim Blaine & Gary Persinger (SCCLBC)
First Place
Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung (SCCLBC)
Third Place: Larry Johnson and Susan Finn (SCCLBC)
Fourth Place: Jim and Ava Casper (SCCLBC)
Fifth Place: Bruce and Cathy Mills (World Parkway)
Jack Phillips Remembered
Second Place
Joe Mattia and Carolyn Ray (SCCLBC)
2023 Champion
Don Prazac
Runner-up
Barb Turney
Men's and Overall Club Champion
Dave Wilson
Women's Singles Club Champion
Lynn Cranch
Winner
John Shelalis
Runner-up
Carolyn Ray
Winner
Marge Lange
Runner-up
Mary Chamberlin
Gold
Ken Martucci, Cindy Higgins, Bob Faldung
Silver
Gary Persinger, Andy Davis, Eric Porr
Bronze
Steve Parks, Al Pelliccio, Jerry Healy
Perfect End!
Scott Synder, Donna and Peter Bauman (LLBC)
Winners
The Conleys, Dave and Jan
1st Place - Rich Maxedon, Gary Houdek and Mike Perkins
2nd Place - Larry Johnson, Susan Finn and Ken Martucci
3rd Place - Cassandra Furlong, Jim and Donna Blaine
4th Place - Cindy Higgins, Lynn Cranch and Bob Fladung
(All SCC teams had 3 wins 0 Loses)
5th Place - Sandy Wall, Kelly Moore and our Sue Wilson
On Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, the annual Burbery Cup Challenge took place with 8 Pebble Beach Fours
teams
versus 8 Suncoaster Triples
teams. Before the teams went out to compete, Marge Lange and Lorna Ruggerio
spoke about David and Christine Burbery. Their home was in England, but they also owned a house in Sun City Center.
They were avid lawn bowlers and very active with our Club. In 2008, they founded the Burbery Cup Challenge
,
and it has become a popular annual event ever since.
The Pebble Beach teams won the 2023 Burbery Cup Challenge
with a score of 6 to 2, so Cassandra Furlong,
Suncoaster President, presented the Challenge Cup
to Jim Savage, Pebble Beach President.
There were many close matches and lots of smiles and laughter.
Jim Savage accepts the Burbery Cup
from Cassandra Furlong
Winners
Rich Maxedon & Ken Martucci
Runners-up
Garry Higgins & Dave Wilson
This year's 11 game season had 18 teams in 3 divisions. Sun City Center Lightning Bowls
(Donna Blaine, Rich Maxedon, Dave Wilson, Garry Watts and Bob Fladung) vs Top of the World Rubico
Rattlers were the finalist in a best of 3 series. The Sun City Center Lightning Bowls swept the series
in 2 games 10-6 and 15-6 to retain the Grass League
flag at Sun City Center for the second straight year.
Winners
Cindy Higgins & Connie Gilpin
Runners-up
Carolyn Ray & Donna Blaine
Winner
Sylvain Larocque
Runner-up
Al Pelliccio
JuniorSingles, January 23, 2023
Winner
Bob Fladung
Runner-up
Garry Higgins
SeniorSingles, January 20, 2023
Winner
Joe Mignogna
Runner-up
Paddy Lennon
Winners
Cindy Higgins & Bob Fladung
Runner-up
Jim & Donna Blaine
Winners
Steve Parks, Dave Conley & Ken Martucci
Runner-up
Rich Maxedon, Bob Rose & Al Pelliccio
Winners
Cindy Higgins, Marge Lange & Cassie Krowl
Runner-up
Connie Gilpin, Cassandra Furlong & Ava Casper
Winners in 17 ends
Matt Harthcock, Andy Davis & Brian Myers
An extra end loss for Bob Fladung's team
Steve Parks, Bob Rose & Bob Fladung
After a 15 end battle, the team of Eric Porr, Marge Lange, and Ed Mattia defeated the team of Bob Fladung, Gary Houdek, and Dottie Blanchard for the 2022 Tuesday League Championship.
Ed Mattia, Marge Lange & Eric Porr
Gary Houdek, Dottie Blanchard & Bob Fladung
This year's winner, Dave Wilson (left), with runner-up Steve Maddocks.
The game went to 25 ends, with lots of spectators on hand.
1st Kathy Mills & Sandy Wall, Top of the World
2nd Diann Thomas & Donna Blaine, Sun City Center
3rd Jackie Hall & Jeri Span, Sarasota
4th Paula LaRocque & Jenny Meyers, Sun City Center
Kathy Mills & Sandy Wall
1st Joe Mignogna & George Whitelaw, Sarasota
2nd Joe & Ed Mattia, Sun City Center
3rd Ken Martucci & Bob Fladung, Sun City Center
4th Dave Wilson & Larry Johnson, Sun City Center
George Whitelaw & Joe Mignogna
The first 0pen tournament of the 2022/2023 season, a great turn out.
1st Donna & Jim Blaine, Sun City Center
2nd Sandra & George Whitelaw, Sarasota
3rd Susan Finn & Larry Johnson, Sun City Center
4th Chris Heller & Joel Deitch, Sun City Center
5th Joe Mignogna & Ava Casper, Sun City Center
Donna & Jim Blaine
The SCCLBC Fall League Championship was this week. The Leaue had 12 teams competing in 2 division over a 10 game season. The two winners of their division were the Underdogs (Fred Kalhammer, Mike Mitchell, Rick Maxadon and replacement bowler Woody Ingram) and the Lightning Bowls (Bob Fladung Dave Wilson and Carl Zajac).
The Lightning Bowls won the best of three Championship Series, 2 games to none, for this year's title.
Dave Wilson, Bob Fladung and Carl Zajac
Mens' Singles Club Champion,
Brian Myers
Women's Singles and overall Club Champion,
Cindy Higgins
This year's winner, the Pebble Beach Club
Suncoaster President Cassandra Furlong presents the Burberry Cup to Pebble Beach President Jim Casper
Champion:
Jim Casper
Runner Up:
Joe Mignogna
Champions:
Susan Finn and Cassandra Furlong
Runners Up:
Donna Blaine and Ava Casper
This year's winners, The Meyers, Jenny & Brian
Winners:
Ken Martucci, Susan Finn and Larry Johnson
Tied for Second Place
Cindy Higgins, Bob Fladung and Lynn Cranch
Joe Mignogna, Barbara Mignogna and Garry Higgins
Fourth Place
Al Pellicio, Val Bechard and Jeanette Street
Champions:
Diann Thomas and Ron Ridley
Runners Up:
Marilyn Finn and Russ Clewley
Champions:
Ron Ridley and Joe Mattia
Runners Up:
Tony Galfo and Bob Fladung
Champion:
Susan Finn
Runner Up:
Jenny Myers
The Lightning Bowls
- Jim Casper, Barb Mignogna, Garry Higgins and Bob Fladung (Captain)
SeniorSingles Championship, January 28, 2022
Champion:
Joe Mignogna
Runner Up:
Al Peliccio
JuniorSingles Championship, January 28, 2022
Champion:
Jenny Myers
Runner Up:
Bob Fladung
Several Sun City Center lawn bowlers competed in the "Ron Buck Memorial" tournament held in Sarasota on Janaury 15. During one of their matches, the "Fours" team of Jim Casper, Karen Cooper, Cassandra Furlong and Phil Griffin made all eight of their bowls count in a single end. Known as a "perfect end", they are extremely rare in competitive lawn bowling and are analogous to an eight-ender in curling, a perfect game in baseball, a perfect game in bowling (300) or a nine-dart finish in darts.
On January 12, back in Sun City Center, it was Jim Casper again joining Bob Fladung and Garry Higgins in scoring another perfect end. They scored all nine shots in a single end in a triples game during a West Coast Inter-club league match.
Perfect 8 shots in a Fours end.
Jim Casper, Karen Cooper, Cassandra Furlong and Phil Griffin
Perfect 9 shots in a Triples end.
Bob Fladung, Garry Higgins and Jim Casper
Winners:
Gary Houdek, Joe Mattia & Noel Induni
Runners Up:
Jim Ferguson, Bob Ferguson & Roy McCartney
Winners:
Roy McCartney, Dottie Blanchard & Bob Rose
Runners Up:
Shelly McCartney, Joe Deitch & Cindy Higgins
Winners:
Fred Kalhammer, Barbara Mignogna & Rick Carlson
Runners Up:
Bob Ferguson, Ava Casper & Rick Swope
Winners:
Cindy Higgins, Donna Blaine & Pam Davis
Runners Up:
Connie Gilpin, Cassandra Furlong & Karen Cooper
This tournament was hotly contested by 20 teams. The results were;
1st - Mike Perkins with Cassie Krowl
2nd - Cindy Higgins with Bob Fladung
3rd - Cassandra Furlong with Paddy Lennon
4th - Jim and Ava Casper
Cassie Krowl and Mike Perkins
The Club's Fall League concluded with a best-of-three series play-off. Congratulations to Fred Kalhammer, Diann Thomas
and Ron Ridely (the Rockin' Da Jack
team) who defeated the Band of Three
team (Bob Ferguson, Marge Lange and Howard Baker).
Ron Ridely, Diann Thomas & Fred Kalhammer
Men's Pairs Winners
Joe Mattia & Jim Casper (SCC)
Women's Pairs Winners:
Cathy Mills and Sandy Wall (TOTW)
Winners:
Jim Bittman, Jim Casper and Bob Rose
Runners-up:
Woody Ingram, Gary Persinger and Bob Ferguson
Winners:
Mary Chamberlin, Bev Sanders and Ava Casper
Runners-up:
Anita Carr, Susan Finn and Diann Thomas
After eleven weeks of qualifying and nine weekly championship events, the final match-up in the 2021 Trustco Master of the Greens Championship had Larry Johnson facing the former champion, Bob Ferguson. Larry bowled a near-perfect singles game and won the match in eight ends.
Larry Johnson and Bob Fladung
The Club had eighteen pairs teams competing in the annual Labor Day Tournament. The two-game event was won by Mary Chamberlin and Karen Cooper. The team of Rich Huss and Bob Fladung came in second, while Joe Mattia and Mike Perkins placed third. Ava Casper and Larry Johnson finished in fourth place.
Mary Chamberlin and Karen Cooper
Phil Griffin, Dave Conley, Rick Abell, Gary Houdek, Eric Porr (Captain), Diann Thomas & Mike Perkins.
The final game of this year's Championship Series was played in Sun City Center. The day started with the playing of our National Anthem, introduction of players and Sandy Wall (Southeast Division President) rolling out the first jack. Mount Dora had a great start, however, the High Rollers then reeled off 18 shots to win 18 to 4. After the game, the Cup was represented to Captain Eric Porr, Silver Medals to Mount Dora and Gold Medals to our Sun City Center High Rollers.
Twenty-seven bowlers celebrated the holiday by bowling with some of their favorite people. Everyone was bowling for themselves as it was the 4-3-2-1 format. We used 9 rinks with 3 bowlers on each rink. With 2 games of 12 ends each, allowed for someone to score 240 points. At the end of the day there was a tie in 4th place. With 95 points were Gary Houdek and Paddy Lennon. In 3rd place with 100 points was Al Pellicio. Sue Finn took 2nd with 107 Points. Tournament Champion for 2021 was our new Social Director, Carol Swope with 108 points.
Carol Swope
Twenty-two pairs teams played two 12 end games. A point system was used for scoring with the team of Marge Lange and Bob Fladung winning the event with 40 points and the team of Karen Cooper and Paddy Lennon a close second with 39 points.
Winners Bob Fladung and Marge Lange
Runners-up Paddy Lennon and Karen Cooper
The Club Novice Championship Singles (bowling two years or less) play-downs were played today. The final match saw Susan Finn defeat Ed Mattia, 21 to 20 after 28 ends. Congratulations to both.
Winner Susan Finn
Runner-up Ed Mattia
Club Singles Championships, April 8 & 20, 2021
Women's Singles Club Champion, Ava Casper
Mens' Singles and overall Club Champion, Eric Porr
Women's Singles runner-up, Diann Thomas
Men's Singles runner-up, Larry Johnson
Winner Joe Mignogna (right)
Runner-up Russ Clewley
Russ Clewley and Joe Mignogna played for the Championship of our 2021 Pebble Beach Singles Tournament.
It was an exciting match with many excellent bowls delivered by both players. With a score of 21 to 15,
Joe Mignogna is the "2021 Pebble Beach Singles Champion"! Joe has won this Championship four times: 2021,
2013, 2020 and 2021. Congratulations also to Russ, our "2021 PB Runner-Up! Thanks to Greg Gonnella, Larry Johnson and
Garry Higgins for their assistance. And thanks to our two tournament Umpires, Cassie Krowl and Kathy Gonnella, to our scoreboard flipper,
Ken Martucci and to our Marker, Bob Fladung! It was a fun tournament with 30 of our members participating!
Winners: Cassie Krowl and Diann Thomas
Runners-up: Mary Baker and Mary Chamberlin
Winners: Bob Fladung and Mike Jacobus
Runners-up: Joe Mignogna and Charlie Williams
The COVID-19 League play was completed with a best-of-three series to determine the League Champions. To adhere to the Club's COVID-19 protocols, the league was comprised of a Tuesday Division and a Thursday Division of eight teams each. The format was rotating triples, with one player sitting out four ends per game.
After all was said and done, the "Rolling Thunder" team of Eric Porr (Captain), Jan Conley and Woodie Ingram won two games straight to win Championship. The second place team was the "Incredibowls" with Mike Perkins(Captain), Howard Baker and Cassie Krowl.
With stringent COVID-19 protocols in place, the 3rd Annual, Trustco Bank, Master of the Greens Tournament. which started in July, was completed. All ten weekly Champions; Larry Johnson, Joe Mignogna, Mike Perkins, Joe Mattia, Bob Fladung, Bob Ferguson, Paddy Lennon, Ken Martucci, Gary Houdek and Barbara Mignogna, played in the twelve-end qualifying round. In the final, cheered on by the socially-distanced fans in attendance, it was Bob Fladung winning over Joe Mattia for this year's title. With thanks to the sponsor, Trustco Bank.
There were thirty-two lucky members in attendance to play this great game! In order to keep everyone on their feet, we played two 10-end games. It was rather pleasant with a nice breeze (and sitting in the shade) and we finished by 1:30PM. This was a blind draw pairs tournament with 4th place going to the team of Cassandra Furlong and Ken Martucci. 3rd place went to Jerry Healy and Steve Parks. In 2nd place was Larry Johnson and returning long time bowler, Neal Nightingale. Welcome back Neal! And, the 1st place winner for 2020 was the team of Mike Perkins and Lloyd Opgenorth. Congratulations to all that placed in the money.
Thirty-six players made up the blind draw of eighteen teams of pairs.
Social distancing was practiced by using every other rink. Results:
1st Mike Perkins and Bev Sanders
2nd Russ Clewley and Corky Grzankowski
3rd Ken Martucci and Ben Caudill
4th Dave Conley and John Damas
5th Pam Davis and CC McBride
1st Cindy Higgins & Bob Fladung (SCC)
2nd Larry & Gloria Colleco (Rossmoor CA)
3rd George Menzies & Laurie Holder (SLBC)
4th Heather Comba & Phil Payne (Maple Leaf )
5th Brian & Jenny Myers (SCC)
6th Jim & Donna Blaine (SCC)
A great turnout for our first-ever Sadie Hawkins
tournament, twelve Pairs teams and four triples teams.
Like other inspired Sadie Hawkins events, the women selected the men for their team. See you next time - in four years.
The 13th Annual Burbery Cup Challenge was played on Monday, February 10th. Eight triples teams from the Suncoasters competed against eight fours teams from the Pebble Beachers. Following the games, everyone stayed for a social hosted by the Pebble Beachers. Amidst laughter and good spirits, Cassandra Furlong, President of the Suncoasters presented the Challenge Cup to Russ Clewley, Vice-President of the Pebble Beachers. The Suncoasters vowed to win the Cup back in 2021. Thanks to all those who made this annual event a success!
The winner of the annual Tuesday League was the St. Andrews team of Cindy Higgins, Garry Higgins and Larry Johnson. Eighteen teams competed over five Tuesdays with Cindy's team being the only one going undefeated.
Winners
Jim Bittman (Vice)
Jenny Myers (Lead)
Joe Mignogna (Skip)
Runners Up
Larry Johnson (Lead)
Carl Zajac (Vice)
Roy McCartney (Skip)
Champions
Cindy Higgins (Skip)
Jenny Myers (Vice)
Pam Davis (Lead)
Runners Up
Ava Casper (Lead)
Donna Blaine (Vice)
Gina Tucker (Skip)
Sixteen men's pairs and fourteen women's pairs played in a tournament named after our own Joe Mignogna.
Men's Pairs
1st place: Paul Ward and Jim Byrne (SCC)
2nd place: Mike Perkins and Gary Persinger (SCC)
3rd place: Bob Fladung and Ken Martucci (SCC)
4th place: Jerry Simmons and Chris Greening (VLBC)
5th place: Eric Porr and Garry Higgins(SCC)
Women's Pairs
1st place: Cindy Higgins and Lynn Cranch (SCC)
2nd place: Judy Bacon and Sue Abbot(SLBC)
3rd place: Lena Cameron and Sharon Farrish (LLBC/SLBC)
4th place: Heather Comba and Glenda Courtice (MLLBC)
5th place: Donna Blaine and Pearl Widder (SCC/KPLBC)
Winners Sharon Farrish and Joe Mignogna
with Bev Phillips (center).
This tournament is hosted in memory of Jack Phillips. Jack and his wife Beverly were actively involved with out club and the Southeast Division for many years.
Beverly was on hand to make the awards presentations. Tournament Director, Robert Trautwein was the Drawmaster.
2nd Place Cassandra Furlong and Mike Perkins
3rd Place Cassie Krowl and Larry Johnson
4th Place Jenny and Brian Myers
5th Place Lynn Cranch and Garry Higgins
The Club Novice Championship (bowling two years or less) play-downs were played today. The final match saw Lloyd Opgenorth defeat Ken Martucci in a singles match that took 2½ hours to complete. Congratulations to both.
The Fall League drew to close with a best-of-three series play-off. Congratulations to Bob Fladung, Kathy Gonnella and Paddy Lennon (the "Thunderbowls") who defeated the "Blue Knights" (Bob Ferguson, Ben Caudill, Dennis Boyle), two games to one.
The Active Life Games are organized by Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation. This year, the 39th annual competition, offered a variety of Olympic-style competitions that attracted hundreds of adults age 50 and older. One of the more than two dozen events, the lawn bowling competition, was held at the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club.
Ten mixed-pair teams competed in the two-game championship. The winning teams, all from Sun City Center, were; Cassandra Furlong and Ken Martucci (Gold), Ava and Jim Casper (Second), Natalie Lanouette and Carl Zajac (Third)
Twelve teams competed in this two-game, pairs tournament. The sweltering heat did get the best of two players, however, substitutions were made and the games continued. Three teams finished the day with two wins and no losses. In first place, the team of Bob Fladung and Marge Lange, followed by Dave Conley and Karen Cooper in second and June Paciga and Joel Deitch in third place.
After ten qualifying rounds of competition the weekly winners squared off to decide the 2019 champion. The final round saw Bob Ferguson win against Bob Fladung to be declared the "Master of the Greens" and wrap-up the second great season.
In the Championship Round of the Central Florida Lawn Bowling League (CFL), it was the Sun City Center "Thunderbowls" defeating the Mount Dora "Backhand", three games straight in a best of five series.
The CFL, now in its second season, has a fourteen-game schedule with seven teams that form the Grass Division and the Rubico Division. The division winners playoff for the championship.
The teams participating are the Sun City Center Thunderbowls, Sarasota Surge, Sun City Center High Rollers, Sun City Center Hog Liners, Mount Dora Backhand, Mount Dora Storm and the Clearwater Headhunters.
The annual Memorial Day Tournament saw twelve mixed pairs teams competing in spite of the ninety-five-degree heat. Lunch and refreshments were served between games by Sandi and Ron Clifton with help from Gary Houdek and Pat Scheid.
After two games were completed, it came down to the team of Cassandra Furlong and Ken Thomas against Karen Cooper and Rick Abell. After a hard-fought contest, the Furlong / Thomas team was victorious.
This tournament is held to thank the bowlers who are heading north and those who are remaining here. The Tournament Directors were Cindy Higgins and Cassie Krowl.
Ron Clifton won the spider. Good job, Ron!
The winner of the 4,3,2, 1 game was Dave Conley with a score of 48 points. Tied for second with 45 points each was Donna Byrne and Gary Persinger.
Club Singles Championships, March 18, 2019
Great Singles matches cheered on by many spectators. In the final match for the title of Sun City Center Singles Champion, it was the Men's Singles Champion, Phil Griffin against
Cindy Higgins, the Women's Singles Champion.
Congratulations to Cindy Higgins, the winner and Phil Griffin, the runner up.
Hawken Aussi Pairs, March 16, 2019
Sponsored by Trustco Bank
We had twenty-eight teams out for this very popular event. Once again, Jocelyn Vizcarra from the local Trustco Bank brought in a great lunch and
promo items for all participants.
Garry Watts & Debbie Foster
Jocelyn Vizearra
Trustco Bank
Southeast Division, 2019 Women's and Men's Open, March 2-7
The 3rd Annual Lead Tournament Championship Game was played to a cheering crowd of over 15 people. The game was to 16 shots between Ken Martucci and Ron Clifton.
It was a thrilling game with the jack being touched numerous times. With score 15-10 Ron, Ron put his second bowl 1 inch from the jack, but Ken made a miraculous shot and hit the jack away from Ron holding shot. Ron not flustered not all, put his third shot 1 1/2 ft from the jack and Ken's last bowl went in between Ron's bowl and the jack just missing getting the shot. Ron won 16-10. Thanks to Ron and Ken for a great game to watch and cheer on.
Heather Woodbury did a great job marking and Cindy Higgins umpired. Both received a standing ovation from the crowd.
Twenty-eight teams competing.
This year's winners, Ben Caudill and Gina Tucker
After sixteen ends, the match was tied at twelve. Joe and Barb won in the extra end.
This year there were three divisions with six teams in each. The Division 2 team (in the yellow pants) of Eric Porr, Rich Cleary, and Robert Trautwein after winning the semi-final against Bob Fladung, Kathy Gonnella and Russ Clewley, advanced to the final match and defeated the team of Rick Abell, Joel Dietch, and Don Smith.
The Suncoasters, our competitive women's club, finished their Triples Championship play-down this week. Six teams began the single knock-out event. The final game saw Team Thomas win against Team Lange.
Thanks to the Tournament Directors, Cassie Krowl and Cindy Higgins.
This inaugural, two-day match-play event had bowlers from Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater and Mount Dora. There were 16 triples teams and 16 pairs teams, totaling 80 players. Players were either a part of the USA contingent or the World contingent. After all was said and done, Team USA came in with a grand total of 171 points and Team World had 210. A complimentary continental breakfast and a free cocktail reception was enjoyed by all. More images here.
This year, sixteen men's teams and twelve women's teams competed in this annual Pairs Invitational Tournament hosted by the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club. Each division (men and women) played three twelve-end games. Visiting teams came from Sarasota, Clearwater, The Villages and Port Charlotte. The winners for the women were the Sun City team of Cindy Higgins and Lynn Cranch and for the men, Eric Porr and Robert Trautwein also a Sun City Center team.
Other winners;
In Women's Pairs
Second place, Heather and Kathy Woodbury
Third place, Debbie Tower and Sue Ellen Horne
In Men's Pairs
Second place, Norm Sandys and Charlie Krips
Third place, Carman Morris and Rico Sylvesteri
Fourth place, Gary Persinger and Joel Deitch
The Club Novice Championship (bowling two years or less) play-downs are complete. The women's champion is Heather Woodbury and the men's champion is Gary Persinger. Gary went on to win the final round against Heather to become the 2018, overall Novice Champion.
These two are very skilled bowlers. We had lots of fans in the wings cheering both bowlers as they delivered some great shots. Congratulations to both.
Thanks to our Tournament Director, Jim Casper, our Umpire, Carl Zajac and our marker, Larry Johnson and to each of you who came out to support our new bowlers.
This tournament is hosted in memory of Jack Phillips. Jack and his wife Beverly were instrumental with the running of many tournaments we have had at our club and the Southeast Division. They both were a dedicated couple whom we will never forget.
This tournament was run by Joe Mignogna, Tournament Director, and his committee, consisting of Cassie Krowl, Jim Casper and Kathy Gonnella. We thank each of them for a tournament well run.
There were four payouts plus a last game high.
Last game high was awarded to Jim and Ava Casper.
In fourth, Sue Abbott and Norm Sandys, with 2 wins, 1 loss and 42 shots.
Third place went to Rusty Ruggles and Cathy Wheat with 3 wins and 33 shots.
Second place was awarded to Jim Byrne and Mary Baker with 3 wins and 32 shots.
In first place, Andre and Niki Bissette (right) with 3 wins and 47 shots.
Fall League, October 18, 2018
Attendance and weather was great and the Jackals out-bowled the Whips 15-7. Congratulations to Bob Ferguson, Mike Mitchell and C C McBride for not only the Championship, but a perfect season (12 & 0). Great bowling by the whole team throughout the season. Runners up were Jim Ferguson, Bob Fladung and Pat Scheid. Thanks to all our players for another successful 4th season. See you next year!
4th of July Tournament - 2018
Eight triples teams played for the honor of coming out on top and being "in the money". The three top teams were:
This year, a new game for most, was introduced to the players. In this game the bowls were delivered by each player to a legal area on the rink. Then the jack is delivered in turn by the players. The person delivering the jack is trying to get it to an area where his team has the most bowls. After that, the count is taken and points awarded to the team having the most bowls near the jack.
'Leads Only' Tournament, March 27, 2018
This tournament had nine "leads" competing for the trophy in singles format. The value of the lead is the ability to put the
bowl on the jack and set the tone for the end and generally, the entire game. Consequently, many consider the lead as the most
important player on the team. At the end a series of single-knock-out games it was Heather Woodbury defeating Dennis Boyle the final match. Heather is our 2018 Leads Champion.
Club Singles Championships, March 23, 2018
Two excellent lawn bowling players, great greens and a beautiful breezy day made for a great Singles Match cheered on
by many spectators. The players were Eric Porr, Men's Singles Champion and Barb Mignogna, Women's Singles Champion.
They were vying for the title of Sun City Center Singles Champion for 2018.
In this Singles final, Eric scored 21 points first and won this very close match, congratulations. And congratulations Barb Mignogna, the runner up.
Hawken Aussi Pairs, March 18, 2018
Sponsored by Trustco Bank
We had twenty-four teams out for this very popular event. Besides a generous donation to the
Club, Jocelyn Vizcarra from the local Trustco Bank brought in a fantastic lunch and numerous
promo items for all participants.
Jocelyn Vizearra
Trustco Bank
Jerry McLean & Kathy Smith
Sponsored by Trustco Bank
Southeast Division, Women's and Men's Open, March 2-17
An exciting 21-point final game of the "2018 Pebble Beach Singles Tournament" saw Jim Byrne and Rich Maxedon competing. Both players had won four matches against the Club's best bowlers to make it to this final match. Rich Maxedon won and he is our "2018 Pebble Beach Singles Champion". Congratulations to Rich and also to Jim, our "2018 Pebble Beach Singles Runner-Up"!
Thanks to Bob Ferguson, marker for the game. Bob was the "2017 Pebble Beach Singles Champion". Thanks also to Carl Zajac, umpire for the final game.
First place went to the team of Garry Watts, Gilles De Serres and Charles Krips with three wins and 42 points. Second place went to Team Jerry Healy who played with Chris Heller and Cassie Krowl with three wins and 40 +12 points. Third place was taken by Team Bob Ferguson playing with Garry Higgins and Rick Czachor with three wins and 33 points.
Fourth place went to Team J. Bercraft with three wins after playing off a tie and 31 points. Fifth place was taken by Team Donna LaBlanc with two wins and and 38 points. Sixth place went to Team Ron Ridley with two wins and 36 points.
The last game high winner was Team Mike Perkins playing with Kathy Gonnella and Greg Gonnella.
Twenty-two mixed pairs teams played two, twelve end games. Joe Mignogna won the spider and took home a Valentine's Day box of candy. After the first game, Peder served lunch and after the second game, cookies and ice cream. Prize money was paid to six places - five teams having two wins, and one team with one win and one loss and the highest points.
Burbery Cup Challenge, Feb 12, 2018
The eleventh annual "Burbery Cup Challenge" was played on Monday. There were seven triples teams from the
Suncoasters versus seven fours teams from the Pebble Beachers. The "Challenge Cup" was initiated in 2008 by
Christine and David Burbery, former members of our Club.
There were many close matches with excellent shots made by all the players. Congratulations to the following teams that won their game:
The winners of the "2018 Burbery Cup Challenge" are the Pebble Beachers, 5 points to 2 points. Thanks to all the members of our Club that helped to set-up and conduct the event, including a nice reception at the conclusion of the games.
Thanks also to all our participants and spectators for making this year's challenge cup so much fun!
Suncoaster President Sandy Gill presented the "2018 Burbery Cup Challenge" trophy to Jim Casper, President of the Pebble Beach Lawn Bowling Club.
The final match of the Tuesday league was played between the team of Ben Caudill, Carl Zajac, and Howard Baker (shown), and the team of Eric Porr, C.C. McBride and Jim Savage. After fifteen ends the Ben Caudill's team was down by one point. On the sixteenth end, they managed to get three points and pulled out the win, thirteen to eleven. It was an exciting game before a sellout crowd. Congratulations Team Caudill, the Tuesday League champs for the 2017-2018 season.
When the men from the Pebble Beach club wrapped up their pairs games, it was Bob Ferguson and his partner, Phil Griffin challenging Bob Fladung and Jim Ferguson for the title of Pairs Champion, Pebble Beach Club, 2018. Congratulations to Bob and Jim for their win in this 16 end game.
Cindy Higgins and Barb Mignogna met in the final and played to 21 points. Near the end of the game, most of the spectators were standing or sitting on the edge of their seats. Barb took the game in the first few ends and then Cindy came in and won several ends bringing her up to the lead. Then, Barb and Cindy traded points and at the end, next to the last end the women were tied at 20 points each. After the eight bowls were delivered, it became obvious that Cindy had won. These women are so evenly matched that on any given day either one could have been the winner. However, it was Cindy's day and she became the Suncoasters' Singles Champion for 2018. Congratulations to Cindy Higgins and Barb Mignogna for a match well played.
The "Juniors" are members aged 70 through 79 and the "Seniors" are 8o years and over. On the Senior side, it Marge Lange was winning against Rick Abel. For the Juniors, it was Barb Mignogna defeating Rick Czachor.
After an exciting match against Rick Abell and Corry McClellan, the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club's 2018 Mixed Pairs Championship was won by Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung. This year's tournament had sixteen teams vying for the title.
The 2018 Pebble Beach Triples Champions are Joe Mignogna (Skip), Jim Blaine (Vice) and Garry Higgins (Lead). The Runners-up are Jon Blanchard (Skip), Larry Johnson (Vice) and Gary Persinger (Lead). Congratulationsto both teams! There were many exciting moments during the match, and the final outcome could have gone either way. Joe's team held their opponents to 1 point in the 16th end, giving them the win with a score of 13 to 12. Special thanks to Greg Gonnella for collecting the entry fees and to Carl Zajac for umpiring the semi-finals and finals.
At the end of single knockout play, four teams had been eliminated leaving Cindy Higgins and Pam Davis up against Diann Thomas and Ava Casper. The match was decided by a measure in the 16th end. The Thomas / Casper team prevailed and are the 2018, Suncoasters Pairs Champions.
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Tips, hints, advice and other information from our Club on how to improve your game and also provide information for all lawn bowlers on the rules and etiquette of the sport.
Lawn bowls is an outdoor game in which a ball (known as a bowl) is rolled toward a smaller stationary ball, called a jack. The object is to roll your bowls so that they come to rest nearer to the jack than those of an opponent; this is sometimes achieved by knocking aside an opponent's bowl or the jack. The bowls are not exactly symmetrical- one side is more rounded than the other, causing the bowl to curve to one side as it slows down. This is referred to as the "bias" of the bowl.
The game takes place on a 120 ft. square of closely cut grass called a green.
A green is divided into rinks 14-16 ft. wide, generally 8 rinks to a green.
Four types of games can be played:
To begin play, a jack is rolled to the opposite end of the rink, and it becomes the target so long as it stops at least 21 meters (68' 10") from the delivery mat. In singles and pairs (doubles) games, each player uses four bowls; in triples each player uses three bowls and in fours each player uses two bowls.
Each player's bowls are distinguished by a design on the side; no two sets of bowls in the world has the same design. Players take turns delivering their bowls. When all bowls have been delivered by both teams, an "end" has been played. Before play begins, the number of ends to be played is decided, 10, 12 or 14 being the most common.
In scoring, each of the bowls of one team nearer the jack at the finish of an end than the nearest bowl of the opposing team counts for one point. The team with the highest number of points at the completion of the specified number of ends is the winner. A game generally lasts about two hours.
To sign up for lessons, please write your name on the list posted at the back of the locker room in the Eberhardt Building (behind the lawn bowling greens).
Shoes: When you become a more serious and regular member, you will want to have a pair of specific bowling shoes. But for all beginners, and many others, all you need is a pair of smooth soled shoes so that you do not mark the green. Tennis shoes, for example, are ideal, as are many walking shoes. If you are buying a new pair, choose white ones so that you don't need a separate pair for white days. As a real newcomer, this is the only must-have equipment item.
Clothing: All white, or cream, clothing is required for tournaments, or matching club shirts. This helps preserve the old traditions of the game - though, of course, many of us wear shorts in summer (even for tournaments) which the old Scots never would have done. On all other occasions, any comfortable clothing will suffice. Because of the heat and glare, a hat or visor is definitely a necessity for most bowlers in many parts of the USA.
Bowls: For beginners and visitors, most clubs maintain a stock of bowls you may borrow (or rent). But as you play more regularly, you will want your own personal set that you can enjoy, maintain and roll predictably. Each set of four has a unique logo or pattern on them so you can identify your own in any game. One set of bowls will last you ten or more years with just the basics of maintenance and proper storage in their carry case.
Measure/Chalk: Special tape measures exist for bowling to resolve those close calls, as well as spray chalk to mark bowls that touched the jack. Keep these in your pocket, especially when you are playing Vice.
Name Badge: All members of the club are issued personal name badges. Most of us wear them on our hats or visors. While we might know you well, this does help newcomers and visiting club players to get your name right.
Locker: A locker is available for a minimal fee to store all your equipment.
Jack: That little white ball we roll first and spend all our efforts chasing thereafter. Mat: The starting point for every roll of a bowl.
Markers: These vary from club to club, but they are generally white or yellow to mark the boundaries and center of rinks in use that day.
Scoreboard: Traditional as it is, we all enjoy putting the scores up on old-fashioned chalk blackboards.
The Green: The green itself is carefully maintained in all cases, in conjunction with our Community Association. Please always treat the green surface with the utmost care.
Lawn bowling historians believe that the game developed from the Egyptians, dating circa 5,000 BC. The sport spread across the world and took on a variety of forms, Bocce (Italian), Bolla (Saxon), Bolle (Danish), Boules (French) and Ula Maika (Polynesian). The oldest Lawn Bowling green still played on is in Southampton, England where records show that the green has been in operation since 1299 A.D.
Certainly the most famous story in lawn bowls is with Sir Frances Drake and the Spanish Armada. In 1588, Drake was involved in a game at Plymouth Hoe in Devon, England when he was notified that the Spanish Armada were approaching. His immortalized response was that "We still have time to finish the game and to thrash the Spaniards, too." He then proceeded to finish the match which he lost before embarking on the fight with the Armada which he won. Whether this famous story really took place has been heavily debated.
King Henry VIII was also a lawn bowler but banned it for those who were not wealthy as he wanted the workers to spend more time practicing their trade instead of lawn bowling. King James I issued a publication called "The Book of Sports" and, although he condemned football (soccer) and golf, encouraged the play of bowls.
There are competing theories as to etymological origin of the word "Jack" (the small white bowl which is the "target" in lawn bowling), in use since 1611, but the most straightforward theory and the one most flavored is that it appears that Jack in some contexts meant a slightly smaller version of something. For example a jack-rabbit is a little rabbit. In this case a 'Jack-Bowl', was the little bowl, later shortened to 'Jack'.
Set of bowls with jack, C 1920. Note that these bowls are made of wood.Lawn Bowling etiquette is about good sportsmanship and common sense.
Here are some tips;Be punctual.
Begin and end each game with a handshake. Be a gracious winner and a good loser.
Be ready to step to the mat and play when it is your turn. Possession of the mat is yours only until your delivered bowl comes to rest.
Wait quietly behind the collection of bowls and be prepared to take your next turn. Distractions such as loud noises or conversation, visible movement of players, objects or shadows, impact of kicked bowls, etc should be avoided while a bowler is on the mat preparing for delivery.
Remain quiet and still on the green behind the head and away from sideline markers until the score has been agreed upon by both teams.
You are part of a team, keep your head in the game.
Simply adjust your bowling to adverse conditions.
Criticism should always be constructive and given privately.
Be sure to compliment a good shot from either your team or an opponent. The enjoyment of a game of bowls is diminished if either team indulges in gamesmanship.
Be sure to support our teams by attending inter-club events.
Mr Del Webb commenced the construction of a retirement community between Tampa and Sarasota named Sun City Center in 1961 and the facility was officially opened in January 1962. Mr Webb was a keen lawn bowler (as was his good friend Walt Disney) and the first lawn bowling green at Sun City Center was completed in the same year.
Initially ladies were not permitted to become members however eventually the men gave way and allowed ladies, as guests, to lawn bowl on Tuesday afternoons. Later the ladies were allowed to play on Tuesday and Friday afternoons, hence the formation of the Tuesday and Friday Ladies Club which is still active today. This is a club within a club and, apart from lawn bowling, they enjoy a number of social activities. Eventually the rules were changed, and the membership was amended to include women.
The number of members has fluctuated over the years. Initially there were approximately 100 members; however it gradually grew and peaked at 420 in the 1990s. By that time, 3 new greens had been added.
The new magnificent Club House was built in 2002. The cost of construction was covered by members' donations, a large gift from long-serving members, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Eberhardt, and from The Community Association. Appropriately the building is named " The Eberhardt Building" .
Other groups who play under the umbrella of the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club are the two divisions which are affiliated with Bowls USA, the governing body of lawn bowling in the United States - The Suncoasters (women), and the Pebble Beach Division (men).
| President: | Ed Mattia |
| Secretary: | Vicki Johnson |
| Treasurer: | Karen Cooper |
| Director of Operations: | Bob Fladung |
| Director of Operations: | Dave Conley |
| Director of Operations: | Garry Higgins |
| Audit: | Andy Davis |
| Tournaments: | Jim Casper |
| Nominating Committee: | Past Presidents |
| Rules Committee: | Cindy Higgins |
Suncoasters Division
The Suncoasters Division (affiliated with Bowls USA) is the women's section of the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club.
Its counterpart is the all-male Pebble Beach group.
Suncoasters bowl every Monday and Thursday afternoon and participate in all morning sessions
which are open to the entire club. Membership in Sun City Center Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club is required in order to join Suncoasters.
The ladies also hold thier own triples, pairs and singles tournaments each year.
The Pebble Beach group (affiliated with Bowls USA) is a division of the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club. The group is all male, and the Suncoasters Division is its female counterpart. Pebble beach bowlers are required to be members of the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club.
Members bowl each Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoon as well as every morning, along with regular club members. Pebble Beach triples, pairs and singles tournaments are played every year.
1009 North Pebble Beach Blvd., Sun City Center, FL 33573-5892
From I-75, travel east on SR 674. Continue through four sets of traffic lights, to North Pebble Beach Blvd., the fifth set of traffic lights.
Turn left onto North Pebble Beach Blvd and continue to the third street on your right - Cherry Hills Drive.
The Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club is located just past Cherry Hills Drive, on the east side of North Pebble Beach Blvd.
Parking is extensive and can be found immediately after turning off of North Pebble Beach Blvd.
