Could you be the next boccia Paralympian?

In this blog, we will explain the benefits of boccia, a sport many of our customers play, including David Smith OBE, who has been a Sirus customer for 15 years. 

Not many people know how to pronounce boccia (note: it rhymes with gotcha), yet it’s the fastest-growing disability sport in the world.

The Paralympic sport is a game of strategy, accuracy and tension. Playing boccia is hugely beneficial. It helps build strength, flexibility and can also improve mental well-being. Britain is home to some of the best boccia players in the world including Sirus customer, David Smith OBE. David will be joining us on our stand at Naidex 2025.

How do you play boccia?

Players must throw, roll or kick coloured balls as close as possible to a white target ball, known as the “jack.” There are four classifications at the Paralympic Games – BC1, BC2, BC3 and BC4.

BC3 players are unable to throw or kick the ball so they use a ramp and a ramp operator. You can compete as an individual, in a pair or as a team. Each side has six balls (red or blue) each end to try and score points. Points are accumulated over the course of a match to find a winner. Find out more and watch our YouTube video.

 Is boccia difficult to play?

It’s a great sport for beginners because the rules are simple. But, at an elite level, it’s much harder than it looks. As skills improve, the tactics of the sport offer tension and excitement. It’s often compared to chess as it’s highly strategic – you always need to be one step ahead of your opponent.

Looking for the next generation of boccia players

Boccia UK is on the lookout for the next generation of Paralympians. We are looking for people who are competitive, creative problem solvers and good at strategy games. Physically, we are looking for people who are QUADRIPLEGIC, as a result of:

• IMPAIRED MUSCLE POWER
• IMPAIRED PASSIVE RANGE OF MOVEMENT
• LIMB DEFICIENCY
• HYPERTONIA
• ATAXIA
• ATHETOSIS

Find out how to get involved or email potential@boccia.uk.com

Read more from David Smith OBE and how driving from his wheelchair gives him the freedom and independence to succeed in his boccia career.