Victoria update
Meet the new faces of Bocce Victoria! Welcome Aryahi, Kunal, Saanchi, Mohak, Meaghan, and Marty
We’re thrilled to introduce the latest additions to the Bocce Victoria committee. Each of these talented individuals bring unique skills, passion and dedication to help grow our community. Let’s give them a warm Bocce Victoria welcome!
Aryahi Khadilkar joins us as our new Social Media and Marketing Coordinator. As a division one women’s cricket player and student of sports management and business at Victoria University, Aryahi will use her sporting expertise and social media skills to connect Bocce Victoria with new and existing fans in creative ways.
Alongside Aryahi are three remarkable interns gaining hands-on experience as part of their Bachelor of Sports Science and Business Management studies.
Kunal Baria is a skilled football player pursuing a Master’s in Business Sports Management. With a background in coaching and event planning, Kunal will bring his business savvy and sporting knowledge to enhance our events and programs.
Saanchi Dhalla, a junior champion archer who has represented India at the World Cup stage, is also studying project management at Deakin University. Her organisational skills and focus on community development will play a key role in delivering impactful programs for Bocce Victoria.
Mohak Bhardwaj, a silver medalist in discus throw at the national level in India, is completing a Master’s in Sport Management. With experience in event coordination and marketing, Mohak is well prepared to support Bocce Victoria’s growth.
Joining the team is Meaghan Griffiths, who brings a lifelong connection to sports. Growing up in Traralgon, Meaghan first played bocce at school and now works for Marcellin College in Bulleen in the physical education department. Her family’s sports first aid training consultancy has further strengthened her ties to sports. Meaghan is now part of our community engagement support team, bringing her passion and expertise to engaging with the broader community.
Finally, we’re delighted to welcome Marty Torimaru, who many know as our friendly coach driver. Beyond the wheel, Marty brings enthusiasm, encouragement, and joy to kids as part of our community engagement support team. His energy and positivity are sure to inspire the next generation of bocce players.
Welcome Aryahi, Kunal, Saanchi, Mohak, Meaghan, and Marty! Together, your diverse talents and commitment will help Bocce Victoria reach new heights.
Bocce Victoria introduces UCAN2 program at Preston Primary School
Bocce Victoria visited Preston Primary School as part of their Italian Day, introducing the UCAN2 program to all 624 students. The children, from Prep to Grade 6, enjoyed a day full of fun and learning, supported by their teachers and parents. The five bocce activities were designed to be engaging and inclusive, ensuring every child had the chance to join in.
The UCAN2 program, which stands for Uniting Communities and Networking Together, uses bocce to bring people together. It’s a sport that is easy to learn, low-impact, and perfect for all abilities. The program aims to build teamwork and social skills, making it an excellent fit for schools. From February next year, Bocce Victoria will roll out the program at schools across metro Melbourne and Morwell, starting with the Lazio Marche Club.
The Italian Day celebration was a huge success. Both students and teachers loved the bocce activities, with many asking for Bocce Victoria to return next year. Teachers were impressed by how the games supported teamwork and encouraged participation.
Special thanks to Macron for the bright UCAN2 t-shirts that the students wore, and to Evan’s Printworks for the colourful wristbands for teachers and kids. These touches added to the fun and spirit of the day.
Bocce Victoria is excited to share the UCAN2 program with more schools and communities, helping everyone feel connected and included through the joy of bocce. Together, we can say, “You can too!”
South Australia update
La Sagra
The South Australian Bocce Federation Inc kindly thanks the Fogolar Furlan Club for the invitation to La Sagra of the North East which was held on Sunday, November 3, 2024.
The federation had the opportunity to demonstrate the sport of bocce to the numerous guests. There were approximately 70 participants. Thank you to the federation volunteers who gave their time.
The bocce participants ranged in age, from two years old up to the mid-seventies. Young and old had a great time trying to roll the bocce ball as close as possible to the boccino (jack).
Bocce is a sport for all ages. The federation runs social bocce at the Sicilia Club on Monday nights and Friday mornings. Please ring 0434 023 656 if you are interested.
J.E. Baldino Plumbing Cup competition at the Campania Club
A fun day was had by all for the J.E. Baldino Plumbing Cup competition at the Campania Club in South Australia.
Sixteen duos went into battle for the prizes. First prize was won by Ross De Ieso, president of the Campania Club and the incredible 93-year-old Domenico Crisci, demonstrating that bocce is good for your health.
We thank J.E. Baldino Plumbing for their support and the Campania Club for the great lunch. For the second time, Angelo Callisto bowled closest to the boccino and won another $25 voucher for Friday dinner at the Campania Club, donated by Ross De Ieso. Once again, thank you Ross.
The prizes were presented by referee Gennaro Galasso as the sponsor was unable to attend. Thank you to Gennaro.
The winners of the J.E. Plumbing Cup are:
- First: Domenico Crisci and Ross De Ieso
- Second: Steve Maglieri and Erminio Ranaldo
- Third: Clemente Maione and Antonio Di Blasio
- Fourth: Filomena Meggetto and Maria Ciaramella
Amicizia Cup competition
On Sunday, November 17, the Campania Club hosted players from the Campania Club and the South Australian Bocce Federation who participated in the third Amicizia Cup competition.
We sincerely thank Steve Maglieri who named and sponsors the competition by donating wine for the prizes, and wine for lunch. Participants were in high spirits after lunch having enjoyed Steve Maglieri’s medal-winning GSM wine.
The prizes were presented by Steve Maglieri. All non-winners received a bottle of wine. Thank you to Gennaro Galasso for refereeing and the volunteers of the Campania Club for hosting the competition and providing lunch. Thank you to the ladies who always provide a wonderful morning tea.
Erminio Ranaldo won the Campania Club Friday night voucher for the closest throw to the boccino. The voucher is kindly donated by Ross De Ieso, Campania Club president.
The winners of the third Amicizia Cup competition are:
- First: Achille Piccirillo and Tony Iuliano
- Second: Gennaro Galasso and Antonio Petroccia
- Third: Rocco Tropepe and Olindo De Ieso
- Fourth: Rocco Boffa and Giuseppe Minicozzi
ACT update
Cooma Bocce Club hosts a successful Cooma Cup weekend
This past weekend, the Cooma Bocce Club was alive with excitement and friendly competition as it hosted the highly anticipated Cooma Cup.
With 11 teams travelling from Melbourne and Sydney, the event showcased the camaraderie and skill of bocce players from across the region. The tournament kicked off on Saturday morning, with teams eager to showcase their talent and vie for the championship title. The atmosphere was electric as players gathered on the courts, ready to engage in spirited matches. Spectators cheered on their favourite teams, creating a vibrant community vibe that is characteristic of the Cooma Bocce Club.
Adding to the weekend’s festivities, local member John Solari provided delicious meals throughout the event. Participants and spectators alike enjoyed a delightful menu that complemented the excitement of the tournament. John’s culinary expertise was a highlight, helping to fuel the players and offering a welcoming taste of the region.
As the sun set on Saturday, the functions room transformed into a lively venue for an evening of entertainment. Guests enjoyed a fantastic dinner followed by a live band that had everyone dancing into the night. The combination of great food, music, and a friendly atmosphere ensured that the Cooma Cup wasn’t just a competition but a celebration of community spirit. At the dinner, the Cooma Bocce Club presented long-time member Guilio D’Amico with life membership for his dedication and ongoing support to the club.
The event concluded with the awarding of prize money, and participants left with memories of a well-organised tournament and praises for their competitors. The winners were Casa D’Abbruzzo Club, and the runners up were a newcomer from Morwell Bocce Club. The Cooma Bocce Club looks forward to welcoming everyone back for next year’s Cooma Cup, promising even more excitement and fun.
A big thank you to all the teams who participated, the committee for getting everything ship shape, John Solari for his fantastic catering, and everyone who helped make this weekend a memorable one.
Another huge thank you to the sponsors for the weekend. Major sponsors were the Cooma Ex-Services Club, Cooma Furnishing Co, and Cooma Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. Our other sponsors were Cooma Sand and Concrete, Brian Geach Electrical, Massari Motors, Cooma Motor Lodge, and Cooma Crash Repairs. This weekend wouldn’t be possible without their support.
Here’s to more successful events at the Cooma Bocce Club!