Bocce is the fastest growing sport in Special Olympics. First off, anyone who can roll a ball can play. Secondly, as athletes age, becoming less able to participate in more rigorous sports like track and field and soccer, they often opt for a smooth transition to bocce. I volunteered as a bocce referee for two Special Olympics World Games, and it was a hectic job. Not only did we have spirited competition among athletes from all over the world, but we were bombarded with questions from coaches of other sports asking how to get their athletes started with bocce.

To view photos of the 1999 Special Olympics World Games (Raleigh-Durham, NC), click here: http://www.joyofbocce.com/Fearrington.ivnu

To view photos of the 2007 Games (Shanghai, China) click here: http://www.joyofbocce.com/china2007.ivnu

I've included a comprehensive chapter on Special Olympics Bocce in my book, The Joy of Bocce. You can download the entire 300 page book here: ($4.95 - no shipping charge) http://www.authorhouse.com/BookStore/ItemDetail~bookid~23994.aspx

SO Bocce Hosted By Mid-Florida-Lakes Bocce Club

Of course, the Olympic torch to kick things off. Photos by Dan Klinedinst, President of the MFL (Mid-Florida-Lakes) Bocce Club.

Great looking courts. Looks like they have scoreboards that go up to 15 or 16 points. Says Klinedinst, "Every year we hold the area and district games here at our courts. The whole community is taking an interest in our yearly event. Last year and this year, the Home Owners Association did the cooking to help feed the athletes and their families."

Shade and protection from the elements at both ends of the courts...

Looks like a specially made table holds the balls for the athlete in the wheelchair.

There's always a medal ceremony.

And there's always good food and good natured volunteers to serve it.