Overview of Boccia
Boccia (‘Bot-cha’) is a Paralympic sport introduced in 1984
It is played indoors on a court similar in size to a badminton court
Boccia is one of only a few sports that has no Olympic counterpart
It is a precision ball sport requiring accuracy and strategy
Boccia can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three.
Boccia is now practiced in over 50 countries worldwide
Boccia was originally designed to be played by people with cerebral palsy but now includes individuals with a range of impairments that affect motor skills
Often confused with Bocce (‘Bot-chee’) the Special Olympic version of the game.
Athletes may throw, kick or use a ramp to propel a ball onto the court
Boccia is unique in the fact that anyone can play despite of age, height, weight, or disability etc.
All events are mixed gender.
Basic Rules
Classifcation
Players are divided into four classifications depending on their disability and functional ability.
All players have impaired functional ability in all four limbs.
* Please note that this classification is currently being trialled at international level and we await confirmation of its acceptance at international events.
** BC5 Classification is being introduced with the clear understanding that it is unlikely to be included in the Paralympic Games due to the restriction on the number of athletes who are permitted to participate in the Games.
This is more for fun competition and encourages family members, friends and supporters to get involved and try out the sport.