Swale Indoor Bowls Club host school children ahead of 2022 Commonwealth Games

Bowls England are determined to make the most of a home Commonwealth Games this summer as they look to grow the sport.

Kent has often been well represented at the highest level and one of the county’s top venues - Swale Indoor Bowls Club - have been playing their part in making the sport available for all.

Twelve children from a local primary school have spent the last six weeks playing bowls with expert tuition from club member and 2010 Commonwealth Games medallist Sandy Hazell, along with a handful of other willing members.

The club welcomed the children from Milton Court Primary Academy for a final session last week and were able to meet another Swale member, Michelle White, who will be representing England’s para squad at this summer’s Games.

Hazell remains a top player in the country but will be on the coaching staff for the Games as an assistant manager of Team England’s bowls squad.

She recognises the importance of making the most of the sport being in the spotlight.

Taking a breather from helping the children at the superbly-maintained Swale club, she said: “It’s great to be able to introduce the children to the sport, you have to start somewhere. Bowling can be perceived to be an old man’s game but it certainly isn’t that.

“This is a way of getting the children involved and maybe even their parents as well. It’s a sport for all, you can play any age, from nine to 99, it’s so inclusive.

“We’ve been so successful as a club at Swale and it’s amazing. There is a wide range of ages and abilities and we can all come together here where there is a great atmosphere.”

Looking on was 47-year-old Dartford-based White, who plays for both Swale and home club VCD.

You don’t need to look much further for inspiration.

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