The European Bowling Federation (EBF) has revealed a series of rule changes for Championships and approved tournaments, set to take effect from June 1st, 2024. These changes aim to refine the competitive environment and ensure fairness across all levels of play.
Bowling Ball Procedure (Rule 3.18)
Previously: 3.18.2 Cleaning of the surface of the bowling ball is permissible prior to any delivery during a game. Any cloth product that is non-abrasive, and contains no chemical additives that would modify the surface finish of the ball, would be acceptable to use. Cleaners, which are products meant to clean the ball surface without changing the surface roughness, may be used, and provided they are on the list of approved products.
Now: 3.18.2 Cleaning of the surface of the bowling ball is permissible prior to any delivery during a game. Any dry cloth product that is non-abrasive and contains no chemicals would be acceptable to use. Cleaners, which are products meant to clean the ball surface without changing the surface roughness, may be used only between block of games, and provided they are on the list of approved products. If the ball picks up a foreign substance that cannot be removed by rubbing, an approved liquid cleaner such as rubbing alcohol may be used. However, this action requires approval from the Championship Committee.
Lane Dressing Procedures (Rule 3.19)
Previously: 3.19.2 Only one oil-pattern will be in use during the entire period of the championship.
Now: 3.19.2 Only one oil pattern will be in use during the entire period of the championship for EMC, EWC, and ECC. - For EYC and ESC different oil patterns will be used for each gender.
Previously: 3.19.4 The final selected oil-pattern will be announced at the Team Managers meeting.
Now: 3.19.4 The final selected oil pattern(s) will be announced at the Team Managers' meeting.
Previously: 3.19.5 The length of the final selected oil-pattern might vary with a maximum of +/- one foot from the originally published length.
Now: 3.19.5 The length of the final selected oil pattern(s) might vary with a maximum of +/- one foot from the originally published length.
Playing Uniform (Rule 3.20)
Previously: 3.20.1 Athletes shall wear a standard uniform approved by their member federation. In a team event (doubles, trios, team) athletes of the same team must wear uniforms of the same color and type.
Now: 3.20.1 Athletes shall wear a standard uniform approved by their member federation. In a team event (doubles, trios, team & official practice) athletes of the same team must wear uniforms of the same color and type.
Competition Area (Rule 3.24)
Previously: 3.24.4 Coaches in the Competition area a) Only one coach per single pair, double, trio, team or master’s qualified will be permitted in the competition area.
Now: a) Only one coach per single pair, double, trio, team, or master’s qualified will be allowed in the competition area. The decision to permit an assistant coach (as per rule 3.24.4.e) or a mental coach to accompany them lies with the Championship Director. However, if a mental coach is considered, they must be able to present a bachelor’s or a higher degree.
