Ides of March – Bocce Ball Tournament

Bocce Ball, sometimes called ‘Bocci’ or ‘boccie’ is an ancient Italian game seeing play as far back as Roman Empire times. Traditionally played on natural soil and asphalt courts, Bocce is a neighborly game, similar to lawn bowling. Play is perfect for socializing with a beer in the hand and a picnic waiting in the wings. A group of residents have been quietly playing Bocce at the beaches for the last 6 years. Meeting on a weekday afternoon, in an undisclosed location, their memberships raise and fall through the snowbird season. Their hush-hush games culminate into a tournament every March called the ‘Ides of March’, where the winning team takes home bragging rights and prizes.   This past March, players teamed up to create 8 teams to compete in the annual Ides of March championship. Getting into the fun of the event, players took license to individualize their clothing. Teams like the Pink Panthers - a team of ladies, donned themselves in pink from ball caps to pink bows on bocce sneakers.

Teams paired off with each other in round-robin playoff, which took the better part of the afternoon. When they were not on the field rolling balls, players enjoyed the company of other participants and spectators in the shade. The Championship game was an epic and exciting battle with the Gang Green team emerging triumphant in a decisive victory over the Peruadians team. The winning team received medals, the better champagne and gift certificates to Café Viana. We asked Team Captain John Cook what gave the team their success edge, he said, “We don’t drink during the game. We want to taste that prize champagne”.

The Gang Green Gringos were: Ron Gordey,  Ken Millar,  Charlie McFadden,  John Cook . It was an especially nice victory for Charlie McFadden, who just turned 85! Congratulations gentlemen!

If you interested in playing Bocce, email coroboci@gmail.com for details on games and next season’s playoffs.