General Conditions of Play for
Provincial Championships/Atlantic Bowl Playdowns
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1. ANNUAL PROVINCIAL/ATLANTIC BOWL PLAYDOWNS
A 5 aside Provincial Championship competition shall be played each year. An Atlantic Bowl Pairs and Atlantic Bowl Triples competition shall be played each year as well.
All games shall be played under the laws of the World Bowls Board as adopted by Bowls Canada Boulingrin. (Marked 2022)
2. REGISTRATION FOR PROVINCIAL PLAYDOWNS
2.A) MEMBERSHIP CARDS
The players of the Provincial Championships shall be registered players of a club, which is a member of the Provincial Association, prior to the start of the competition. Current primary Membership cards (for the current season, May – Oct.) must be presented to the Match Chair (or designate) when the entry fee is paid, not less then thirty minutes, prior to the start of each player’s first scheduled game. Players without cards will be permitted to begin the competition but will be required to present his/her membership card, or proof of current membership, prior to the start of the second scheduled game. Otherwise, he/she will be ineligible to continue. Said player's team must either acquire a substitute player or withdraw from further play. The result of the offending team's first game is recorded as a loss, while the team they played is credited with a win and average net shots of all other games in the round.
If games are not required for a Provincial Championship or Atlantic Bowls (due to the number of entries) membership cards must be presented, by the entrant, to his/her club President within 10 days following the date of the scheduled event. Confirmation of membership will then be sent by the club President to Lawn Bowls Nova Scotia President
2.B) PRINCIPLE RESIDENCE
Members shall have their principal residence in the province of Nova Scotia as of January 1st of the year of the play downs.
2.C) 5-aside entries to be submitted to match chair by Sunday at 6pm two weeks in advance. At this time disciplines needs to be submitted.
3. FORMAT OF PLAY/DRAWS
5-aside Number of bowls and ends to be the same as Bowls Canada’s Conditions of play
a. Singles: four bowls per player; two sets of seven ends
b. Pairs: three bowls per player; two sets of five ends with one end tiebreaker if necessary.
c. Triples: two bowls per player; two sets of five ends with one end tiebreaker if necessary.
d. Fours: two bowls per player; two sets of five ends with one end tiebreaker if necessary.
e. There will be a time limit of 1 hour and 30 minutes for all matches.
PAIRS (Men/Women): 18 ends, 3 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
FOURS (Men/Women): 16 ends, 2 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
MIXED PAIRS: 18 ends, 3 bowls per player, 2.5 hour time limit
SENIOR TRIPLES (Men/Women): 16 ends, 2 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
TRIPLES: 16 ends, 2 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
OUTDOOR SINGLES (Men/Women): shall be played to 21 points
**(NS Triples, Singles, Pairs and fours if played will not represent Nova Scotia at a National Championship event, however it will follow BCB’s format of play. Registration fees will go to the first place (60%), second place (30%) and third place (10%) teams).**
ATLANTIC BOWL PAIRS: 14 ends, 4 bowls per player, 2-hour time limit
ATLANTIC BOWL TRIPLES: 14 ends, 3 bowls per player, 2 ¼ hour time limit
3.B) FORMAT FOR PLAY - DRAWS
The format for play in the Provincial Championships (Pairs, Fours, Mixed Pairs, Senior Triples and Triples) shall be determined by the number of entries in each event. The number of entries in each event is not restricted. Six or more teams entered shall play a modified double knock-out to determine a winner. Four to five entries shall play a double knock-out. If there are three teams in an event, a double round-robin shall be used. If there are two teams, it will be a best two out of three games.
5 aside - Draw format is to be determined by the provincial match chair based on allowed time frame and number of entries.
For provincial men’s and women’s singles – draw format is to be determined by the provincial match chair based on allowed time frame and number of entries.
In the Atlantic bowl where two winners are determined with three teams or more the format shall be a double knockout. In the Atlantic bowl the undefeated team shall be team #1.
3.C) ROUND ROBIN DRAW
The following applies when a round robin draw is used.
During round robin play, if a game is tied once all ends are played, the game remains a tie. At the end of round robin play, if two teams are tied a full game will be played to determine the winner.
If three teams are tied, then a Differential Point System (points for, minus points against) in all games played by each team will be used to determine each team’s position. Team #1 will be the team with the greatest positive differential. Team #2 will be the team with the second greatest positive differential. Team #3 will be the team with the lowest positive differential.
Team #1 would then get a bye to the final and teams #2 and #3 would play with the winner advancing to play team #1. The winner of that game will be the provincial champion. These tiebreakers are to be half games. (ie. If playing pairs they will be 9 ends, if playing fours they will be 8 ends, etc.)
In light of the possibility of point differential being used, ALL ends must be completed in each game of the round robin.
(doesn’t apply to 5-aside)
3.D) PLAYOFF GAMES
All playoff games will be played at the club that hosted the competition and will commence either immediately following the completion of the event or the next day. The only exception would be suspension of play due to inclement weather, in which case games would be resumed, at the same venue, as soon as weather conditions permit.
4. TIMES FOR PLAYDOWNS OF PROVINCIAL TOURNAMENTS
Playing of Provincial tournaments will be played on consecutive days at the following consecutive times:
5-aside: Friday night 7:00pm and 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm 7pm & 9pm
Fours: Friday night 7:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Triples: Friday night 7:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Pairs (Sr. Triples): Friday night 7:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Singles: Friday night 7:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
**Friday nights will only be used should the number of entries require the additional day to complete the championship. **
In all provincial play, and at the discretion of both the host club chair and umpire on duty, scheduled game times may be altered if the following guidelines are followed:
5. MAXIMUM GAMES PER DAY
A maximum of three games per day shall be scheduled for any team or individual during the competition.
5-aside dependent on number of entries
6. TIE GAMES
In the event of a tie game an extra end shall be played to determine the winner of the game. The exception being if you are playing a round robin format. In that case, a tie remains a tie.
(5-aside dependent on number of entries)
7. TIME LIMIT
A bell will indicate the start of play. At the end of the time allotted for the game another bell will ring, at which point the end in progress must be completed, but no new end can be started. An end is considered “in progress” if the jack has been delivered.
8. LATE ARRIVAL
Any player arriving more than twenty minutes after the official start time of their game, shall cause that player in singles to forfeit. In team play such as pairs, triples or fours, a substitute can be used according to the rules of substitution (Section 14.A). If a substitute is not found the team must forfeit.
9. RE-SPOT RULE
The re-spot rule shall be in place for all LBNS Provincial Playdowns and Atlantic Bowl Playdowns. If the jack comes to rest outside the boundaries of the rink, it shall be replaced on the two metre mark and play shall continue.
10. TRIAL ENDS
Two trial ends will be played prior to the game. Four bowls per player will be played each direction for singles. Three bowls will be played each direction for pairs. Two bowls per player each direction in fours, triples and senior triples. Trial ends are to commence fifteen minutes prior to the official start time of the match.
No trial ends will be played at the Atlantic Bowl Playdowns.
11. REQUIREMENTS OF PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONS
11.A) The winners of the Provincial Championships (5 player team), shall represent Nova Scotia at the Canadian Championships the same year as the Provincial competition. The winners of the Atlantic Bowl Pairs and Atlantic Bowl Triples shall represent Nova Scotia at the Atlantic Bowl Championships the same year as the provincial competition.
11.B) Any player participating in Provincial Playdowns must attend the Canadian Championships in the event they are on the winning team, barring an injury, illness or bonafide emergency that has been accepted by the executive committee and the match chairman. Failure to attend the national event may result in the forfeiture of the opportunity to participate in the same event in the following year.
12. YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS – UNDER 21
12.A) Eligibility - All competitors must be a minimum of 14 years of age as of January 1 of the year of the event, and not be 21 years of age by January 1 of the year of the event.
12.B) Match Competition – Singles played to 2 sets of 7 ends with a one end tie-breaker. four bowls will be played.
12.C) The Draw – if the total of the number of entries in an event is four or fewer, a double round robin shall be played leading to the medal round. The preferred format is a single round robin in which each player plays against each player entered. If the number of players warrant, two or more sections may be created in which players shall be drawn randomly into those sections. If two sections are used in the round robin, the winner and runner-up in each section will proceed to a semi-final stage, being drawn against players from the opposing section, with the first-place finisher in one section playing the second-place finisher in the other section. The semi-final winners will play off for the gold and silver medals, and the semi-final losers will play off for the bronze medal.
12.D) Time Limit – There will be a time limit of 1.5 hours for round robin games, commencing when the signal for the start of the game is given. At the conclusion of 1.5 hours, another signal will be given at which point an end in progress must be completed but no new end may be commenced.
**Eligible youth may compete in the provincial playdown, but are not required to go to the Canadian Youth Championships.
13. HOST/ALTERNATE CLUB AVAILABILITY
13.A) The Host Club is the club which has agreed to host the Provincial tournament as determined at the Provincial Match Meeting.
13.B) The Alternate Club is the club that has agreed to be the back up to the host club of the 6 Provincial tournament as determined at the Provincial Match Meeting.
13.C) During a Provincial tournament the Host Club must make itself available for provincial play Friday evening if required. If necessary due to inclement weather, extreme weather, or unforeseen circumstances, the Host Club should maintain its availability until the completion of the tournament.
13.D) The Alternate Club will only be used if the number of teams entered in the provincial tournament requires a second venue, or if there is a greens emergency as determined by Provincial Greens and/or Host Club Greens keeper.
14. SUBSTITUTION/REPLACEMENT – PROVINCIAL COMPETITION
A “substitution” is a player who fills in for a game (maximum two games) during a competition. He/she may not play in the skip position. If the substitution plays two games they become a member of the team and can then play in any position.
A “replacement” is a player who replaces a member of the team after names have been entered to the Provincial Match Chair but before the competition begins. Once the change is appropriately noted (Section 14.B) the player becomes a member of the team and can play in any position.
14.A) SUBSTITUTION
If on the day of provincial competition or during the provincial competition a player is unable to participate due to injury, illness, or a bona-fide emergency, the following will apply:
In pairs and triples one substitute will be allowed, and in fours two substitutes will be allowed. The substitute may be from any club. A substitute may not play in the skip position, but they may play in any other position. The original player may return to the competition provided not more than two full games have been missed. After that, the substitute becomes a member of the team and may play in any position.
In the event that a singles player is unable to compete, or more than one substitute is required in pairs or triples, and more than two in fours, the team will be disqualified from play, and all of its points will be eliminated.
14.B) REPLACEMENT
If the line-up (member) of a team changes after the entry deadline passes, the following guidelines must be followed:
A substitution will not be permitted for any player who knowingly enters an event aware of being unable to play all dates and times scheduled for that event.
If a substitute is required by a team more than once over the course of the competition, the same substitute must be used. If the same substitute is not available, the Emergency Committee (Section 21) will make a final decision on the substitution.
Players knocked out of the tournament cannot re-enter the tournament as a substitute.
15. SUBSTITUTION/REPLACEMENT – AFTER PROVINCALS, BEFORE CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
15.A) After completion of Provincial play, and prior to Canadian competition substitution of any nature shall only be permitted following an application for same to LBNS, and approval of that authority.
The circumstances and reasons for substitutions will be provided to LBNS by the team concerned.
If, on completion of the Provincial Championships, one of the players entitled to represent the province cannot participate in the Canadian Championship, the following will apply with respect to a substitute:
No substitute will be allowed in singles. In pairs, mixed pairs, triples and senior triples one substitute will be allowed, and in fours two will be allowed, with approval as above.
5 aside two substitutions will be allowed
If a substitute is required in singles, the next qualifier shall represent the province in the event concerned. If more than one substitute is required in pairs, mixed pairs, triples and senior triples, and more than two in fours, the remaining member of the qualifying team can make up a team to represent the province according to Section 15.B and once confirmed by LBNS Executive. In the event that a team can’t be made according to Section 15.B, the runner-up in the relevant discipline will represent the province, once confirmed by LBNS Executive. LBNS must report the change to Bowls Canada.
15.B) PLAYER SUBSTITUTION POOL
Any player substitutions are to be chosen from players who played in any provincial event the same year, and after that, any other member may be chosen.The substitute must be approved by the provincial executive.
16. DRESS CODE/BOWL AND SHOE INSPECTION
16.A) All players shall adhere to the dress code laid out by LBNS. Team members are to wear similarly colored shirts, and similarly colored pants, shorts, or skirts. Shirts must have a collar and can’t be sleeveless. No short shorts. No denim. Flat (heel-less) shoes. All elements of dress, where questionable, shall be governed by the judgment of the Umpire in Charge.
16.B) Bowls and Shoe inspection will be conducted for all Provincial Playdowns by the Umpire in Charge prior to the start of each team/player’s first scheduled game.
17. EQUIPMENT
Players are expected to have all the equipment that may be required (measuring tape, chalk, rain gear) with them during play.
18. INCLEMENT WEATHER
18.A) Players must report to, and register at greens, on the day they are scheduled to start Provincial play. If due to inclement weather or other circumstances, it should become unlikely that the tournament can be completed within the allotted time, the Emergency Committee (as described in Section 21) shall have the authority to shorten the length of the matches, to rearrange times, to amend the playoff format, and take any other measures necessary to ensure the successful conclusion of the championship.
18.B) The Umpire in Charge of the Provincial Tournament in question can postpone play due to inclement weather.
18.C) Players registered for the Provincial tournament must make themselves available at each scheduled play time, unless otherwise notified, prior to game start time, by the Umpire in Charge.
18.D) Should Provincial play be delayed due to inclement weather, any decisions regarding rescheduling will be the responsibility of the Emergency Committee (Section 21), and communicated by the same.
18.E) Provincial play should take place over consecutive days, and only interrupted due to inclement weather or a medical emergency on the greens. When Provincial Play resumes, it should be held the next day, at the Host Club, at times determined by the Emergency Committee.
18.F) If a game is interrupted due to inclement weather and an end was not finished before players are called off the greens (including scoring declared for that end), the end is to be replayed when play resumes.
19. LEAVING PLAYING AREA
Players are required to inform their opponent if leaving the playing area, or in the case of a medical situation, shall also inform the umpire on duty.
20. SMOKING/ALCOHOL
Smoking by the competitors and officials anywhere on the playing area is prohibited. No alcoholic beverages are to be consumed by the competitors and officials during play.
21. EMERGENCY COMMITTEE
The Emergency Committee will consist of the Umpire in Charge (who will serve as the chairperson of the committee), the host match chair, host club President, the LBNS Provincial Match Chair (or their designate to be named to the Umpire in Charge at the beginning of each day), and the host club Greens Chairman (inclement weather only). Any three may act, of which the Umpire in Charge must be one.
22. PROTESTS
Protests will be considered only if received from the contesting skip in writing by the Chairperson of the Emergency Committee (Section 21) within two hours of the completion of a Provincial Competition leading to the Canadian Championships. No protests will be accepted after the two hours have elapsed. The Emergency Committee will review any input regarding the protest and come to a decision within 24 hours of receiving the written protest. The decision will be communicated by the chair of the Emergency Committee.
23. APPEALS
A player, in singles play, or a team, in all other disciplines, represented by its skip has the right to appeal the Emergency Committee's decision, but must do so within 72 hours of the Emergency Committee’s decision (Section 22). The written appeal (along with a deposit cheque of $100) is to be directed to LBNS President and Executive. Once the Executive and its review committee has come to a decision on the appeal the skip will be notified by LBNS. If the appeal has been successful the cheque will be returned; otherwise, it is forfeited to LBNS.
24. Changes
For 2024 only due to expected changes in format to national events the above conditions of play will be subject to change at the discretion of the match committee at anytime during the season
BCB LAWS OF THE SPORT OF BOWLS
No laws governing sport can cope with every situation, and the laws governing the sport of bowls are no exception. Unusual situations not covered within the laws can often arise. The Laws of the Sport of Bowls (“the laws”) have been drawn up in the spirit of true sportsmanship. So, if a situation arises that is not covered by these laws, players, markers, and umpires, should use their common sense and a spirit of fair play to decide on the appropriate course of action.
Lawn Bowls Nova Scotia
Revised: April 7, 2024
It is the responsibility of the Umpire in Charge at each competition to ensure the above Conditions of Play are followed during competition. Any unresolved conflicts/issues will be referred to the Chief Umpire. Should they not be covered in the provincial Conditions of Play, the Chief Umpire should follow Bowls Canada’s Conditions of Play.
**A COPY OF THE PROVINCIAL CONDITIONS OF PLAY AND BOWLS CANADA BOULINGRIN CONDITIONS OF PLAY MUST BE POSTED IN EACH CLUB. **
A 5 aside Provincial Championship competition shall be played each year. An Atlantic Bowl Pairs and Atlantic Bowl Triples competition shall be played each year as well.
All games shall be played under the laws of the World Bowls Board as adopted by Bowls Canada Boulingrin. (Marked 2022)
2. REGISTRATION FOR PROVINCIAL PLAYDOWNS
2.A) MEMBERSHIP CARDS
The players of the Provincial Championships shall be registered players of a club, which is a member of the Provincial Association, prior to the start of the competition. Current primary Membership cards (for the current season, May – Oct.) must be presented to the Match Chair (or designate) when the entry fee is paid, not less then thirty minutes, prior to the start of each player’s first scheduled game. Players without cards will be permitted to begin the competition but will be required to present his/her membership card, or proof of current membership, prior to the start of the second scheduled game. Otherwise, he/she will be ineligible to continue. Said player's team must either acquire a substitute player or withdraw from further play. The result of the offending team's first game is recorded as a loss, while the team they played is credited with a win and average net shots of all other games in the round.
If games are not required for a Provincial Championship or Atlantic Bowls (due to the number of entries) membership cards must be presented, by the entrant, to his/her club President within 10 days following the date of the scheduled event. Confirmation of membership will then be sent by the club President to Lawn Bowls Nova Scotia President
2.B) PRINCIPLE RESIDENCE
Members shall have their principal residence in the province of Nova Scotia as of January 1st of the year of the play downs.
2.C) 5-aside entries to be submitted to match chair by Sunday at 6pm two weeks in advance. At this time disciplines needs to be submitted.
3. FORMAT OF PLAY/DRAWS
5-aside Number of bowls and ends to be the same as Bowls Canada’s Conditions of play
a. Singles: four bowls per player; two sets of seven ends
b. Pairs: three bowls per player; two sets of five ends with one end tiebreaker if necessary.
c. Triples: two bowls per player; two sets of five ends with one end tiebreaker if necessary.
d. Fours: two bowls per player; two sets of five ends with one end tiebreaker if necessary.
e. There will be a time limit of 1 hour and 30 minutes for all matches.
PAIRS (Men/Women): 18 ends, 3 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
FOURS (Men/Women): 16 ends, 2 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
MIXED PAIRS: 18 ends, 3 bowls per player, 2.5 hour time limit
SENIOR TRIPLES (Men/Women): 16 ends, 2 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
TRIPLES: 16 ends, 2 bowls per player, 2.5-hour time limit
OUTDOOR SINGLES (Men/Women): shall be played to 21 points
**(NS Triples, Singles, Pairs and fours if played will not represent Nova Scotia at a National Championship event, however it will follow BCB’s format of play. Registration fees will go to the first place (60%), second place (30%) and third place (10%) teams).**
ATLANTIC BOWL PAIRS: 14 ends, 4 bowls per player, 2-hour time limit
ATLANTIC BOWL TRIPLES: 14 ends, 3 bowls per player, 2 ¼ hour time limit
3.B) FORMAT FOR PLAY - DRAWS
The format for play in the Provincial Championships (Pairs, Fours, Mixed Pairs, Senior Triples and Triples) shall be determined by the number of entries in each event. The number of entries in each event is not restricted. Six or more teams entered shall play a modified double knock-out to determine a winner. Four to five entries shall play a double knock-out. If there are three teams in an event, a double round-robin shall be used. If there are two teams, it will be a best two out of three games.
5 aside - Draw format is to be determined by the provincial match chair based on allowed time frame and number of entries.
For provincial men’s and women’s singles – draw format is to be determined by the provincial match chair based on allowed time frame and number of entries.
In the Atlantic bowl where two winners are determined with three teams or more the format shall be a double knockout. In the Atlantic bowl the undefeated team shall be team #1.
3.C) ROUND ROBIN DRAW
The following applies when a round robin draw is used.
During round robin play, if a game is tied once all ends are played, the game remains a tie. At the end of round robin play, if two teams are tied a full game will be played to determine the winner.
If three teams are tied, then a Differential Point System (points for, minus points against) in all games played by each team will be used to determine each team’s position. Team #1 will be the team with the greatest positive differential. Team #2 will be the team with the second greatest positive differential. Team #3 will be the team with the lowest positive differential.
Team #1 would then get a bye to the final and teams #2 and #3 would play with the winner advancing to play team #1. The winner of that game will be the provincial champion. These tiebreakers are to be half games. (ie. If playing pairs they will be 9 ends, if playing fours they will be 8 ends, etc.)
In light of the possibility of point differential being used, ALL ends must be completed in each game of the round robin.
(doesn’t apply to 5-aside)
3.D) PLAYOFF GAMES
All playoff games will be played at the club that hosted the competition and will commence either immediately following the completion of the event or the next day. The only exception would be suspension of play due to inclement weather, in which case games would be resumed, at the same venue, as soon as weather conditions permit.
4. TIMES FOR PLAYDOWNS OF PROVINCIAL TOURNAMENTS
Playing of Provincial tournaments will be played on consecutive days at the following consecutive times:
5-aside: Friday night 7:00pm and 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm 7pm & 9pm
Fours: Friday night 7:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Triples: Friday night 7:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Pairs (Sr. Triples): Friday night 7:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Singles: Friday night 7:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
**Friday nights will only be used should the number of entries require the additional day to complete the championship. **
In all provincial play, and at the discretion of both the host club chair and umpire on duty, scheduled game times may be altered if the following guidelines are followed:
- In singles play, all players are consulted and agree to change of game time;
- In all other disciplines (pairs, triples, fours, mixed pairs, senior triples) skips are asked to consult with their teams, and if the skips agree, the game time may be altered.
5. MAXIMUM GAMES PER DAY
A maximum of three games per day shall be scheduled for any team or individual during the competition.
5-aside dependent on number of entries
6. TIE GAMES
In the event of a tie game an extra end shall be played to determine the winner of the game. The exception being if you are playing a round robin format. In that case, a tie remains a tie.
(5-aside dependent on number of entries)
7. TIME LIMIT
A bell will indicate the start of play. At the end of the time allotted for the game another bell will ring, at which point the end in progress must be completed, but no new end can be started. An end is considered “in progress” if the jack has been delivered.
8. LATE ARRIVAL
Any player arriving more than twenty minutes after the official start time of their game, shall cause that player in singles to forfeit. In team play such as pairs, triples or fours, a substitute can be used according to the rules of substitution (Section 14.A). If a substitute is not found the team must forfeit.
9. RE-SPOT RULE
The re-spot rule shall be in place for all LBNS Provincial Playdowns and Atlantic Bowl Playdowns. If the jack comes to rest outside the boundaries of the rink, it shall be replaced on the two metre mark and play shall continue.
10. TRIAL ENDS
Two trial ends will be played prior to the game. Four bowls per player will be played each direction for singles. Three bowls will be played each direction for pairs. Two bowls per player each direction in fours, triples and senior triples. Trial ends are to commence fifteen minutes prior to the official start time of the match.
No trial ends will be played at the Atlantic Bowl Playdowns.
11. REQUIREMENTS OF PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONS
11.A) The winners of the Provincial Championships (5 player team), shall represent Nova Scotia at the Canadian Championships the same year as the Provincial competition. The winners of the Atlantic Bowl Pairs and Atlantic Bowl Triples shall represent Nova Scotia at the Atlantic Bowl Championships the same year as the provincial competition.
11.B) Any player participating in Provincial Playdowns must attend the Canadian Championships in the event they are on the winning team, barring an injury, illness or bonafide emergency that has been accepted by the executive committee and the match chairman. Failure to attend the national event may result in the forfeiture of the opportunity to participate in the same event in the following year.
12. YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS – UNDER 21
12.A) Eligibility - All competitors must be a minimum of 14 years of age as of January 1 of the year of the event, and not be 21 years of age by January 1 of the year of the event.
12.B) Match Competition – Singles played to 2 sets of 7 ends with a one end tie-breaker. four bowls will be played.
12.C) The Draw – if the total of the number of entries in an event is four or fewer, a double round robin shall be played leading to the medal round. The preferred format is a single round robin in which each player plays against each player entered. If the number of players warrant, two or more sections may be created in which players shall be drawn randomly into those sections. If two sections are used in the round robin, the winner and runner-up in each section will proceed to a semi-final stage, being drawn against players from the opposing section, with the first-place finisher in one section playing the second-place finisher in the other section. The semi-final winners will play off for the gold and silver medals, and the semi-final losers will play off for the bronze medal.
12.D) Time Limit – There will be a time limit of 1.5 hours for round robin games, commencing when the signal for the start of the game is given. At the conclusion of 1.5 hours, another signal will be given at which point an end in progress must be completed but no new end may be commenced.
**Eligible youth may compete in the provincial playdown, but are not required to go to the Canadian Youth Championships.
13. HOST/ALTERNATE CLUB AVAILABILITY
13.A) The Host Club is the club which has agreed to host the Provincial tournament as determined at the Provincial Match Meeting.
13.B) The Alternate Club is the club that has agreed to be the back up to the host club of the 6 Provincial tournament as determined at the Provincial Match Meeting.
13.C) During a Provincial tournament the Host Club must make itself available for provincial play Friday evening if required. If necessary due to inclement weather, extreme weather, or unforeseen circumstances, the Host Club should maintain its availability until the completion of the tournament.
13.D) The Alternate Club will only be used if the number of teams entered in the provincial tournament requires a second venue, or if there is a greens emergency as determined by Provincial Greens and/or Host Club Greens keeper.
14. SUBSTITUTION/REPLACEMENT – PROVINCIAL COMPETITION
A “substitution” is a player who fills in for a game (maximum two games) during a competition. He/she may not play in the skip position. If the substitution plays two games they become a member of the team and can then play in any position.
A “replacement” is a player who replaces a member of the team after names have been entered to the Provincial Match Chair but before the competition begins. Once the change is appropriately noted (Section 14.B) the player becomes a member of the team and can play in any position.
14.A) SUBSTITUTION
If on the day of provincial competition or during the provincial competition a player is unable to participate due to injury, illness, or a bona-fide emergency, the following will apply:
In pairs and triples one substitute will be allowed, and in fours two substitutes will be allowed. The substitute may be from any club. A substitute may not play in the skip position, but they may play in any other position. The original player may return to the competition provided not more than two full games have been missed. After that, the substitute becomes a member of the team and may play in any position.
In the event that a singles player is unable to compete, or more than one substitute is required in pairs or triples, and more than two in fours, the team will be disqualified from play, and all of its points will be eliminated.
14.B) REPLACEMENT
If the line-up (member) of a team changes after the entry deadline passes, the following guidelines must be followed:
- The affected team must notify the provincial match chair and chief umpire;
- The provincial match chair must send out an updated draw reflecting the lineup/name changes (host club and chief umpire to be included in distribution);
- In light of the line-up (member) change being made prior to the provincial competition, the new player is now a member of the team and can start play in any position on that team.
A substitution will not be permitted for any player who knowingly enters an event aware of being unable to play all dates and times scheduled for that event.
If a substitute is required by a team more than once over the course of the competition, the same substitute must be used. If the same substitute is not available, the Emergency Committee (Section 21) will make a final decision on the substitution.
Players knocked out of the tournament cannot re-enter the tournament as a substitute.
15. SUBSTITUTION/REPLACEMENT – AFTER PROVINCALS, BEFORE CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
15.A) After completion of Provincial play, and prior to Canadian competition substitution of any nature shall only be permitted following an application for same to LBNS, and approval of that authority.
The circumstances and reasons for substitutions will be provided to LBNS by the team concerned.
If, on completion of the Provincial Championships, one of the players entitled to represent the province cannot participate in the Canadian Championship, the following will apply with respect to a substitute:
No substitute will be allowed in singles. In pairs, mixed pairs, triples and senior triples one substitute will be allowed, and in fours two will be allowed, with approval as above.
5 aside two substitutions will be allowed
If a substitute is required in singles, the next qualifier shall represent the province in the event concerned. If more than one substitute is required in pairs, mixed pairs, triples and senior triples, and more than two in fours, the remaining member of the qualifying team can make up a team to represent the province according to Section 15.B and once confirmed by LBNS Executive. In the event that a team can’t be made according to Section 15.B, the runner-up in the relevant discipline will represent the province, once confirmed by LBNS Executive. LBNS must report the change to Bowls Canada.
15.B) PLAYER SUBSTITUTION POOL
Any player substitutions are to be chosen from players who played in any provincial event the same year, and after that, any other member may be chosen.The substitute must be approved by the provincial executive.
16. DRESS CODE/BOWL AND SHOE INSPECTION
16.A) All players shall adhere to the dress code laid out by LBNS. Team members are to wear similarly colored shirts, and similarly colored pants, shorts, or skirts. Shirts must have a collar and can’t be sleeveless. No short shorts. No denim. Flat (heel-less) shoes. All elements of dress, where questionable, shall be governed by the judgment of the Umpire in Charge.
16.B) Bowls and Shoe inspection will be conducted for all Provincial Playdowns by the Umpire in Charge prior to the start of each team/player’s first scheduled game.
17. EQUIPMENT
Players are expected to have all the equipment that may be required (measuring tape, chalk, rain gear) with them during play.
18. INCLEMENT WEATHER
18.A) Players must report to, and register at greens, on the day they are scheduled to start Provincial play. If due to inclement weather or other circumstances, it should become unlikely that the tournament can be completed within the allotted time, the Emergency Committee (as described in Section 21) shall have the authority to shorten the length of the matches, to rearrange times, to amend the playoff format, and take any other measures necessary to ensure the successful conclusion of the championship.
18.B) The Umpire in Charge of the Provincial Tournament in question can postpone play due to inclement weather.
18.C) Players registered for the Provincial tournament must make themselves available at each scheduled play time, unless otherwise notified, prior to game start time, by the Umpire in Charge.
18.D) Should Provincial play be delayed due to inclement weather, any decisions regarding rescheduling will be the responsibility of the Emergency Committee (Section 21), and communicated by the same.
18.E) Provincial play should take place over consecutive days, and only interrupted due to inclement weather or a medical emergency on the greens. When Provincial Play resumes, it should be held the next day, at the Host Club, at times determined by the Emergency Committee.
18.F) If a game is interrupted due to inclement weather and an end was not finished before players are called off the greens (including scoring declared for that end), the end is to be replayed when play resumes.
19. LEAVING PLAYING AREA
Players are required to inform their opponent if leaving the playing area, or in the case of a medical situation, shall also inform the umpire on duty.
20. SMOKING/ALCOHOL
Smoking by the competitors and officials anywhere on the playing area is prohibited. No alcoholic beverages are to be consumed by the competitors and officials during play.
21. EMERGENCY COMMITTEE
The Emergency Committee will consist of the Umpire in Charge (who will serve as the chairperson of the committee), the host match chair, host club President, the LBNS Provincial Match Chair (or their designate to be named to the Umpire in Charge at the beginning of each day), and the host club Greens Chairman (inclement weather only). Any three may act, of which the Umpire in Charge must be one.
22. PROTESTS
Protests will be considered only if received from the contesting skip in writing by the Chairperson of the Emergency Committee (Section 21) within two hours of the completion of a Provincial Competition leading to the Canadian Championships. No protests will be accepted after the two hours have elapsed. The Emergency Committee will review any input regarding the protest and come to a decision within 24 hours of receiving the written protest. The decision will be communicated by the chair of the Emergency Committee.
23. APPEALS
A player, in singles play, or a team, in all other disciplines, represented by its skip has the right to appeal the Emergency Committee's decision, but must do so within 72 hours of the Emergency Committee’s decision (Section 22). The written appeal (along with a deposit cheque of $100) is to be directed to LBNS President and Executive. Once the Executive and its review committee has come to a decision on the appeal the skip will be notified by LBNS. If the appeal has been successful the cheque will be returned; otherwise, it is forfeited to LBNS.
24. Changes
For 2024 only due to expected changes in format to national events the above conditions of play will be subject to change at the discretion of the match committee at anytime during the season
BCB LAWS OF THE SPORT OF BOWLS
No laws governing sport can cope with every situation, and the laws governing the sport of bowls are no exception. Unusual situations not covered within the laws can often arise. The Laws of the Sport of Bowls (“the laws”) have been drawn up in the spirit of true sportsmanship. So, if a situation arises that is not covered by these laws, players, markers, and umpires, should use their common sense and a spirit of fair play to decide on the appropriate course of action.
Lawn Bowls Nova Scotia
Revised: April 7, 2024
It is the responsibility of the Umpire in Charge at each competition to ensure the above Conditions of Play are followed during competition. Any unresolved conflicts/issues will be referred to the Chief Umpire. Should they not be covered in the provincial Conditions of Play, the Chief Umpire should follow Bowls Canada’s Conditions of Play.
**A COPY OF THE PROVINCIAL CONDITIONS OF PLAY AND BOWLS CANADA BOULINGRIN CONDITIONS OF PLAY MUST BE POSTED IN EACH CLUB. **