My 4 years as Chairperson of Disability Bowls England (DBE) Charity trust has come to an end at midnight on the 31 December, as the next chapter of disability bowls in England is about to be written with all activities being managed by Bowls England (BE) and the English Indoor Bowling Association (EIBA), taking the game to next level of sports inclusivity for all .
At the start of this volunteering journey, I never realised that discrimination of disabled people still existed within the sports world, but hopefully with the help of a loyal band of trustees, volunteers, and players we have changed the minds of many in the bowls world by showcasing our ability, not disability, throughout the UK and on the world stage.
But our biggest success story has been the DBE Bowls family. Our membership has grown from 140 in 2021 to over 500 active members today playing bowls across all codes of the game with likeminded people and alongside fellow able-bodied club members as equals, with over 200 disabled friendly clubs actively promoting our sport for all with the introduction of specialist adapted bowling equipment and walking aids which have extended the playing careers for so many people who wish to play the sport of bowls. It is still one of a few sports where 3 generations of the same family can play a sport together regardless of ability, gender, or age.
The past 40 years of disability bowls in England has been a rollercoaster ride for so many dedicated trustees and volunteers and I leave you all, knowing that the future of disability bowls in England at all levels, from first time grassroots and club players to International, Commonwealth Games and World Championship squads, looks very bright and secure for many years to come.
Finally, a massive thank you to the DBE Bowls Family for this amazing journey and the many life lessons learnt in the sport of Bowls and the Disability Sports Charity sector.
As the Sunsets on this journey, another Sunrise will raise again soon!!!!!
Steve Watson
Disability Bowls England Chairperson 2020-2024