Role of a Marker

A Marker is used to facilitate the singles form of the game of bowls. A summary of the responsibilities of the role is included here.

Bowls ACT runs courses for Markers. The course is recognised Australia wide and for all levels of bowling competitions. Please contact Bowls ACT on 6257 3560 or the Bowls ACT website where the annual calendar of events will give proposed dates of courses.

The Role of a Marker

“So if you would a Marker be
Then make it worth your while
To do the job quite capably
And do it with a smile.”

If you are marking a game the following rules should be observed.

  • On arrival at the venue, introduce yourself to officials, fellow markers, umpire and players.
  • Have with you; chalk, measure, wedges, pen, scorecard, coin and if it is a club/ACT final, shot indicators.
  • Advise players you will mark touchers, ask to remove dead bowls, give measurements in imperial/metric/show hands. Ask if players need you to measure for them.
  • Before the game, shake both players’ hands and wish them well. Place names on the score board.
  • At the start of each end; stand between the 2m mark and the ditch till the jack slows, make sure the mat is on the centre line, centre the jack and check that the jack is 21m. You may question the length to the players and/or call an Umpire if it is short.
  • During the game; stand 2m behind the head and 1m to the side ensuring that all rink markers are visible to the players. Watch your shadow and don’t stand on the bank.
  • Anticipate answers to questions so you are ready for a prompt reply. Answer questions from the player in possession of the rink accurately and concisely without giving more information than is asked for. Give common sense answers. If asked “Am I 2 down?” The reply could be “No. You are 1 up”. If you cannot decide who has the shot, don’t guess – indicate it is a measure.
  • Mark all touchers or remove chalk from non-touchers immediately they come to rest. Remove dead bowls from the rink with the players’ agreement. Use available indicators to show the position of touchers or jack which are in the ditch and draw a ring in the sand in case they are moved.
  • On a drive bowl, move to 2m in front of the head for clear view of changes to the head and to avoid contact with any bowls.
  • At conclusion of the end; move 2m in front of the head and wait till the players decide the score. Measure disputed shots on player’s request but do not move the bowls. (An Umpire/Measurer may be called upon for a decision.) Confirm the score and advise players of sub-total. Walk briskly to other end, centre the jack, enter the score on the card then update the scoreboard.
  • At the end of the game; complete the score card, record the time, ask players to sign the card. Shake hands with the players and congratulate the winner.

Summary from BA Officiating Manual: Marker, Measurer and National Umpire.