New look for website officials section
Bowls SA values the role and the support that our volunteer Officials play in the delivery of a fun experience for all.
To improve the experience for all, we have been reviewing the information and support we provide to our Presenters and Assessors, Officials, Members, Clubs, and Associations.
We are pleased to announce and share the improvements that have been made to ensure the ongoing success of the officials development. Improvements include updated information on the Bowls SA website, which will support:
- A member who is interested in becoming an official
- Current officials who want to improve their skills and understanding
- A private Hub for all Presenters and Assessors who conduct our officials’ courses
“The work Bowls SA has done to provide on the website and the Hub for Presenters and Assessors is well overdue and I know it will be popular,” said International Technical Officer, Bowls SA Officials Committee member, and Board Director Sandy Wallace.
When asked why she enjoys being an official she goes on to say “I have always had the opinion if you play a sport, why would you not want to be conversant with the rules of that sport?
“There isn’t a sport in the world that is played without an Umpire or Referee, you are an integral part of the sport and every game in which you officiate.
“There can be a great camaraderie amongst Officiators, and in general, this can make for a great support group to help and discuss problems and interpretations of the game. I have made lifelong friends through Officiating, and it is a bonus I never expected.”
We suggest that all Members, Clubs, and Associations check out the updates and keep an eye on the Officials pages as further improvements will come.
One key point for all to take note of is that all future course registrations and payments will be taken online, rather than the current paper registration process. The benefits of this change include:
- Easier for members to register and make payment
- Faster confirmation if your booking into a course was successful or not
- Less admin burden, which allows staff to plan more opportunities for courses
The online system shifts the responsibility of registering to individual members rather than Clubs and Associations, giving these volunteers time to focus on other matters.
We recognise that there will be some teething issues for some of our members, especially for those who are new to doing things online, however, you can reach out to others at your club or call the Bowls SA office for assistance.
We will be working closely with our regional Presenters and Assessors, Associations, and Clubs to ensure that the process works for all.
