“Bowls has made me more sociable”

North Londoner John has been enjoying the Arsenal in the Community bowls sessions ever since a chance local encounter a few years ago.

“My first interaction was with a local community centre taking part in a fitness session, and then staff suggested that in addition to this I try Arsenal’s indoor bowls sessions. These are delivered in local centres and at The Arsenal Hub. We got the mats and bowls out post-exercise and went through the rules – that was helpful! – and from there I was hooked.

“I wasn’t aware of how much Arsenal in the Community delivered and more specifically projects I could access like bowls, walking football and organised walks. As soon as bowls was offered I knew it was something I wanted to do, even though I had no experience. I’m retired, so having routine is important.

“From these sessions I have been given additional opportunities with Arsenal. I’ve represented Islington at the London games, shared a cuppa and played bowls with Ian Wright and taken part in a penalty shootout against Gunnersaurus on the Emirates pitch!

“I’ve made many friends through the sessions and, to be truthful, they’ve been very helpful in supporting me, showing me what to do and how to do it and creating a welcoming environment. My main interaction is with Mark, or AZ as he’s known, but I now know a few of the Arsenal in the Community staff, including some of the young coaches. They all seem to be very friendly and helpful. Mark kept in touch with us during the lockdown and took us on weekly walks, which we really enjoyed. He has even done some shopping for some of the bowlers!

“By its nature, bowls has made me more helpful and sociable. I find myself helping people with their bowls technique and tactics, and I really enjoy the teaching aspect. I attend three sessions a week at different centres and, including all of the bowlers and staff across these sites, I probably now know an additional 40 people, with the social aspect being so invaluable. I realise a lot of people will say this but it really is like being part of a huge family as I’m also involved in the walking football programme at The Hub.

“If there are people who are thinking about getting involved in Arsenal’s bowls programme, I wouldn’t even question it. You’ll definitely meet a lot of nice people, enjoy yourself and get fitter at the same time, plus you also get tea and biscuits served by Mark. What more can you ask for?”

For more information on our Indoor Bowls programme contact Mark Antoniewicz at mantoniewicz@arsenal.co.uk