Bowls Alberta Youth Development Program
Bowls Alberta is committed to introducing young athletes to the exciting sport of lawn bowls. Our Youth Development Program provides fun, skill-building activities and competitive pathways that help youth of all ages engage with the sport at a level that suits them. Whether they’re looking for a social, recreational, or competitive experience, lawn bowls offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
To learn more about youth programs in your area, visit the Youth Lawn Bowls Promo Page to connect with a club through our request form.
Growing the Future of Lawn Bowls
Bowls Alberta launched its Youth Development Initiative in 2021, thanks to the support of the Jumpstart Sport Relief Fund. Since then, we have expanded the program, equipping clubs with training resources and development tools to introduce more youth to the sport.
For the 2025 season, Bowls Alberta continues to build on these successes by providing access to the Youth Program Manual—a comprehensive guide to running youth programs.
Several clubs are already hosting youth programs. For details, please contact:
New clubs interested in launching youth programs can apply for development grants and receive mentorship from experienced program coordinators.
Why Lawn Bowls?
Lawn bowls is an engaging and accessible sport that offers a variety of benefits for youth:
- A fun, social atmosphere – Enjoy the game with friends and meet new people.
- Competitive opportunities – Play at the Provincial and National levels.
- Transferable skills – Develop coordination, patience, and strategy useful in other sports.
- Respectful and inclusive competition – A non-contact sport promoting good sportsmanship.
- A lifelong activity – A sport you can enjoy from childhood into adulthood.
Lawn bowls is also a great complement to curling or alley bowling, allowing athletes to stay sharp and active in the off-season. Both sports share similar strategies and skills, making lawn bowls a perfect way to improve year-round performance. Find a club near you and bring your teammates to give it a try!
Youth Bowling Categories
Our programs are designed for different age groups, ensuring tailored experiences for players at every stage of development:
- Under 12: Focused on fun, with skill-based games and activities.
- Ages 12 – 17: A mix of skill-building, social play, and increasing competition opportunities.
- Ages 18 – 25: Competitive and social play options, with access to high-performance training.
Bowls Alberta offers flexible participation—play for fun, or work towards elite competition. There’s a place for everyone!
How to Get Started
Joining a youth lawn bowling program is easy:
- Find a local club offering youth sessions.
- Contact the club to sign up for an introductory session.
- Bring a friend—bowling is more fun together!
- Wear flat-soled shoes—all other equipment is provided.
Many clubs have drop-in sessions, so youth can try the sport without a long-term commitment.
Competitive Pathways & Provincial Tournaments
For those who love competition, Bowls Alberta provides structured pathways to higher levels of play, leading to National and International opportunities.
- Youth Provincial Tournament: Each year, Bowls Alberta hosts the Youth Provincial Tournament, where winners may qualify for financial support to compete at the Canadian Youth Championships.
National championship categories include:
- Junior Boys (Under 18)
- Junior Girls (Under 18)
- Under 25 Men’s Division
- Under 25 Women’s Division
Pathway to Team Canada
Aspiring elite players can earn a place on the Alberta Squad, which serves as a stepping stone for those who dream of representing Canada on the international stage.
For further details on competitive pathways, email office@bowlsalberta.com.
Opportunities for Schools & Youth Organizations
Bowls Alberta is committed to introducing lawn bowls to schools, community groups, and youth organizations.
- Field Trip & Group Programs: Teachers and group leaders (e.g., Scouts, Guides, youth sports teams) can book a field trip to their local bowling club. Volunteers will introduce students to the sport through fun and engaging activities.
To organize a school or youth group visit, contact a local club or email office@bowlsalberta.com.