RIYADH: The sport of boccia is helping to empower people living with severe physical disabilities across the Kingdom, the head of its governing body said.
The precision ball game, which is related to bowls and petanque, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity.
Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)
Mohsen Al-Ismail, president of the Saudi Boccia Federation, said his organization was committed to promoting the sport throughout the Kingdom and helping nurture talent, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
When the game was introduced to the Paralympics it was designed to be played by people with cerebral palsy but now includes athletes with other disabilities affecting motor skills.
FASTFACTS
• Mohsen Al-Ismail, president of the Saudi Boccia Federation, said his organization was committed to promoting the sport throughout the Kingdom and helping nurture talent.
• In 1984, the sport attracted just 19 athletes from five countries. In 2024, there were 116 players from 75 countries.
In 1984, the sport attracted just 19 athletes from five countries. In 2024, there were 116 players from 75 countries.
Al-Ismail said the sport helped individuals with cerebral palsy, particularly those with nerve issues, by improving balance, stimulating blood circulation, strengthening muscles and supporting motor rehabilitation.
Boccia uses six leather balls per side and can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three. The aim is for players to throw their balls as close as they can to a white target ball, or jack.
The game dates back to ancient Greece and Egypt and its name is derived from the Latin word for “boss.”
