Let the Good Times Roll on Scotts Valley's Bocce Courts

Scotts Valley Parks and Recreation Bocce League has started its fifth season with sixteen teams for the spring.

“The league has really grown in popularity," said Dorene Bolanos, Scotts Valley recreation coordinator.  “This year we have a wait list for teams wanting to play at the courts located in Skypark."

With fun team names like Hot Shots, Roaring Lions, In It to Win It, Anti Pastas and Babes with Balls, the names are just the start to have a good time while enjoying the simple sport. 

The spring session will run for six weeks, with a playoff week and spring tournament held on July 9.

A summer league will begin the week of July 11 and end August 25.

Personally, I always thought the game of bocce was strictly for older men. I learned quickly that this game is for all ages, gender and athletic ability.   

Bocce Ball is a game based on strategy, competition and teamwork.

For me and many others, Bocce is extremely addicting.  It requires accuracy and skill to earn points.  The game can take about a minute to learn and years to master.  

Playing Bocce is simple:  Bocce sets consists of four balls of one color, four balls of a different color, and one pallino (marker). The pallino is a marker and the point of the game is to get your bocce balls as close to the pallino as possible. The team that reaches 12 first wins.  Scotts Valley league rules deem the winner the best two out of three games with a two hour maximum time limit.

“I love the game," said Al Telles, who plays the game three to four times a week.  “I enjoy getting out, the team camaraderie, and having fun." It takes focus to be a really good player.  Telle's team Bocce Amigos, or better known as Al’s Pals, have won the league title six times since the inaugural season in 2007. 

The league competition is stiff with teams playing on Monday and Wednesday, or Tuesday and Thursday nights. The rivalry isn’t the only thing that brings the teams back week after week.  The night at the bocce court includes socializing with teams bringing lots of food and drink to enjoy while playing.

A senior league is offered with teams playing on Monday through Thursday mornings, with Fridays set aside for anyone wanting to come out and learn the game. 

“This game gets you out and socializing. Win, lose or other, we get together, have fun and stay active," Rita said Christie, who has played bocce for the past two years.

Sammy Khalil plays with the senior league and finds the game very enjoyable. “I’m active and find the teams bring a unique spirit to the game," said Khalil.

As a result of the league play, a competitive team has been formed called the Scotts Valley Bocce Club. This team plays against other leagues such as Livermore and Los Gatos.  The Scotts Valley Bocce Club will host the Los Gatos Bocce Club on Saturday May 15  at 4 p.m. at Sky Park bocce courts. 

Don’t forget the "Walking on Sunshine" Walk-A-Thon to be held on Saturday May 15, 2011 at Skypark from 2:30pm to 6:30pm.

After the walk, you’ll be able to enjoy a BBQ by Bruno’s BBQ and live music

Raise money for your school. To make a donation online click here for Vine Hill School or click here for Brook Knoll