At Bowls Alberta, our mission is clear: to support our members in all their aspirations, whether it’s striving for National medals on the green or encouraging new bowlers to explore new skills and fall in love with this wonderful sport. We believe in nurturing both competitive excellence and grassroots participation, ensuring that everyone, from seasoned athletes to newcomers, enjoys the sport to its fullest.
A vital part of this mission is ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all involved. This is where our Safe Sport policies come into play. These policies are designed to guarantee that bowlers, coaches, umpires, and volunteers have the right to participate in an inclusive space that is free from abuse, harassment, or discrimination. The well-being of every member is paramount, and we are committed to upholding these standards.
However, maintaining a safe environment also comes with its challenges. Over the past year, Bowls Alberta has spent approximately $12,000 dealing with issues related to our Discipline and Complaints Policy. These cases involved addressing conflicts, complaints, and disciplinary matters, all crucial to preserving the integrity of our community. But we believe that resolving conflicts doesn’t always have to come at such a high cost.
Open communication and understanding are often the first steps toward resolution. Instead of jumping to formal complaints, we encourage our members to engage in honest, respectful conversations when conflicts arise. To help guide these discussions, here are a few questions that can de-escalate tensions and foster understanding:
- “That didn’t feel good—what was your intention?”
Clarifying intent can often diffuse misunderstandings. - “I’m feeling defensive—can you share that another way?”
Encouraging a different approach can promote a more constructive conversation. - “When you said that, I thought you meant [fill in the blank]. Can you clarify?”
Asking for clarification can prevent assumptions and allow both parties to express their true meaning. - Walk away. Apologize. Mean it.
Sometimes the simplest solution is taking a step back, reflecting, and offering a sincere apology when needed.
At Bowls Alberta, we’re committed to creating an environment where conflict can be addressed openly and respectfully, without unnecessary cost or escalation. By embracing these approaches, we can continue to foster a positive, safe, and supportive community for all.
We are here to ensure that every player, coach, and volunteer feels valued—both on and off the green. Together, we can continue to make lawn bowls a sport we all love and cherish.