New generation of players and portable courts boost American bocce scene

Dozens more social bocce leagues have sprung up across the USA in recent years, fuelled by a new generation of players, portable bocce courts, and the kind of raw enthusiasm only the American Bocce Company (ABC) can provide.

Traditionally enjoyed by a more mature audience, bocce has captured the imagination of younger generations over the past decade, with participation numbers now reaching all-time highs.

ABC co-founder Alex Gara said ABC had recorded a 1,000% growth in players in its social bocce leagues since 2015 and numbers today were 40% higher than the previous peak in 2019, just before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The past three years had also seen a 300% increase in the number of people participating in major ABC bocce tournaments, which now number more than a dozen across the USA.

Gara said ABC had “tapped into something special” by using portable bocce courts from Packaworld to host leagues in venues such as bars, breweries, and malls, making it easy for people to get involved. Even major music festivals like Chicago’s Lollapalooza and Texas’ Austin City Limits have welcomed the sport as a surprise special guest on their line ups.

"One of the drawcards of bocce is that it doesn't require a lot of prior experience or athleticism. It's something anyone can pick up, and it’s easy to socialize while you’re playing.

"What we're seeing from people is a desire for connection," Gara said.

The flames of bocce’s resurgence amongst the wider population have been fanned by ABC’s special blend of social engagement, competition, and smart branding – captivating young urbanites across America and making the sport desirable.

ABC’s leagues have struck a chord with younger players by emphasizing the social aspect of the game and creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

"Bocce provides that perfect balance of skill and chance, allowing people of all abilities to compete on a level playing field. It's as much about the conversations between rolls and the vibes as it is about the game itself.

"Our goal is to make bocce a staple of American social life, as common as darts in a bar or pickup basketball in a park.

With the enthusiasm we're seeing from our players, I think we're well on our way," Gara said.

ABC seems to be succeeding in this mission too. Its leagues boast a tenfold increase in players since they began in 2015, with thousands of players rolling for glory and enjoying the camaraderie of competition.

Gara said a key factor in the success of ABC’s leagues had been the use of Packaworld’s portable courts, which could turn any indoor or outdoor space into a top-level bocce playing environment. Packaworld’s range of inflatable Packabocce courts includes the 30’ x 8’ Recreation courts used by ABC, as well as 60’ x 12’ Competition courts and 22’ x 6’ Mini courts for smaller venues.

Gara said Packaworld's innovative courts had underpinned the success of ABC’s leagues.

“The courts have allowed us to bring bocce to places we never thought possible. We can now set up a professional-grade court almost anywhere in a matter of minutes, which has really accelerated our ability to share the sport we love.”

Packaworld Chief Executive Peter Roberts said the impact ABC was having on the US bocce scene was inspiring.

“Their efforts are proof that a small but highly dedicated group can revolutionise the way a sport is played across a whole country. We’re proud our courts have helped enable the American Bocce Company to bring bocce to the people, rather than expecting people to seek out dedicated facilities.”