As we stand on the threshold of another thrilling year in the world of bocce, let’s embark on a journey to celebrate the iconic moments that have shaped the narrative of our fantastic sport. The stories that unfold on the bocce courts become a part of our folklore, etching themselves into the history that future generations will undoubtedly cherish.
The past year has been a tapestry of emotions, with moments ranging from the poignant and disappointing to the uplifting and inspirational. Each of these instances contributes to the rich tapestry of bocce history, creating a mosaic of experiences that define the spirit of our sport.
While I’m excited to share my ‘Top 10 memorable moments of the year’, I also want to acknowledge that there are countless other stories that, while not making it into the official ranking, are undoubtedly deserving of mention. These moments, whether big or small, contribute to the collective memory of our bocce community.
As we take a moment to reflect on the past 12 months within the world of bocce, it becomes apparent that our sport, like any community, has experienced both highs and lows. It’s crucial for us to acknowledge and learn from these diverse experiences as they shape the landscape of our sport. While challenges and setbacks may have occurred, it is the resilience and shared joy within our community that deserve our attention and celebration. The sport is bigger than the individual and it is more important to learn from these situations. It is with this mindset that I wish to acknowledge the positive moments that for me, made 2024 memorable.
Although not in my top 10, the following people are worthy of a mention as we leave 2024 behind. In the spirit of positivity, I want to shine a light on the remarkable individuals who have dedicated their lives to volunteerism and played pivotal roles in shaping the bocce landscape across three states. The coaches, the referees, the tournament directors, the bocce volunteers and especially the families have all made significant contributions that deserve recognition.
So, as we move forward and gear up for another exciting year in 2025, let’s open the floor for discussions. As you celebrate your Christmas with family or your mates, share your favourite moments, the stories that resonated with you, and the experiences that left an indelible mark on your bocce journey.
Together, let’s weave a narrative that captures the essence of our sport and ensures that these stories endure as part of bocce folklore. Here’s to the sport we love, and the moments that define it.
So, let’s get to it – let the countdown begin to the number one bocce moment of 2024, and relive the big moments. Starting from ten and working backwards to my number one bocce moment of 2024, they are:
10. Bocce secures historic funding through ASC’s Win Well and Play Well initiative
Bocce Australia has become a standout beneficiary of the Australian Sports Commission’s (ASC) landmark $385 million investment, aimed at supporting sports from grassroots participation to elite pathways. This historic funding, part of the ASC’s Win Well and Play Well strategies, emphasises inclusivity, community engagement, and international competitiveness.
Key highlights:
- $385 million allocated across 70 sports for 18 months (January 2025 – June 2026)
- Funding for high-performance pathways, including LA 2028 preparations
- $43.9 million dedicated to expanding the Play Well strategy for safe and welcoming sports spaces
- Participation funding for 63 sports, with five receiving support for the first time.
Bocce Victoria also secured a historic grant of more than $600,000 – a testament to the efforts of Laila Favrin and her committee. Well done Laila!
Bocce Australia’s next steps
Starting February 2025, Bocce Australia will launch state roadshows to engage clubs, players, families, and stakeholders nationwide, sharing its vision for using this funding to strengthen player pathways and community programs.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to Vince for his tireless advocacy, which played a pivotal role in securing this investment for Bocce Australia. This funding marks an exciting chapter for bocce, bringing benefits to all affiliated clubs and earning its place as number 10 in my top 10 moments of 2024.
9. Junior Open
Congratulations, Abbey McKenna!
A special acknowledgement was awarded to Abbey McKenna by Chief Referee Joe Maselli at the 2024 Australian Junior Open Championships.
This recognition highlights Abbey’s exceptional sportsmanship and dedication, setting a fantastic example for aspiring bocce players across the nation.
8. Nationals – WA Power Clubs Dominate
The 2024 Nationals were a celebration of talent and teamwork, with the WA Power Clubs delivering outstanding performances across the board.
- Laguna Men’s Fours stole the spotlight with their remarkable precision and skill, clinching a well-deserved victory.
- The Azzurri Club impressed with an inspiring mother-and-daughter duo and a strong team effort that highlighted their camaraderie and competitive edge.
- The Toscano Club showcased a memorable father-and-son duo, backed by a team of highly capable players who brought their A-game to the championship.
- The WA Bocce Federation overcame challenges to deliver a fabulous event, exemplifying excellent collaboration between the co-hosts of this spectacular championship.
- A special mention goes to the Special Olympics team and the Laguna Club for their incredible hospitality, participation, showing the inclusivity and spirit of bocce.
- Lastly, congratulations to the Bundaberg Women’s Triples team for successfully defending their title and winning the Club Triples for the second consecutive year. Could we see a three-peat in 2025?
A big thank you to all the players, clubs, and organisers who made this year’s Nationals a resounding success! Here’s to continuing the tradition of excellence and community in bocce.
7. Dynamic duo from NSW’s Liverpool Catholic Club
The dynamic duo from NSW, Lara O’Callaghan and Melissa Danelutti, delivered a stellar performance at this year’s National Championships, showcasing their exceptional bocce prowess and reinforcing their status as a formidable force in the sport.
These talented young athletes exemplify the importance of training, skill development, strategic thinking, and the ability to balance defensive and offensive play in a precision sport like bocce. Their success is a testament to their dedication and the robust support system of the Bocce Australia Junior Development Program with junior sectors in each state.
Lara and Melissa’s journey highlights the strength of the program, particularly in the eastern states of ACT, QLD, NSW and VIC, where the future of bocce continues to flourish under careful guidance and development. Their success is an inspiration for a new generation of players, emphasising the bright future of bocce in Australia.
This growth will be further strengthened by the continued alignment and support of bocce’s dedicated volunteers and families, whose efforts remain at the heart of the sport’s progress.
6. World Championships in St Vulbas – Australia qualifies for World Games
Congratulations to Daniel and Nicole for their remarkable achievement at the World Championships in St Vulbas, securing a spot for Australia in the upcoming World Games.
Their skill and determination have earned Australia a place on the world stage!
5. French Tour
The French Tour delivered a series of unforgettable experiences for bocce enthusiasts across three states. Beginning in Queensland, moving through New South Wales, and concluding in Victoria, the tour gained momentum with growing interest as it progressed. By the final stages, numerous players and clubs had enthusiastically joined the action.
Participants, including local club players, state representatives and Team Australia, relished the chance to compete against some of the world’s best players. The tour wasn’t just about competition — it was a celebration of the sport, camaraderie, and the international bocce community.
For the many players involved, it was a golden opportunity to gain valuable international exposure and proudly showcase Australia’s talent on the global stage. The French Tour’s success underscores the good work done by Sonia Fava in co-ordinating this participation program and sets the stage for more such enriching experiences in the future.
4. Mixed Rapid Open
The Mixed Rapid Open brought an exciting blend of energy and strategy, delivering thrilling matches and showcasing incredible performances from all participants. One of the standout features of the event was the unique Mixed Rapid Relay, where senior, more experienced players teamed up with juniors to compete.
This fast-paced format had spectators on the edge of their seats, highlighting the adaptability, skill, and teamwork of bocce players across generations. Despite the demanding pace, the senior players rose to the occasion, demonstrating that with willpower, experience, and determination, anything is possible. Their efforts were a testament to the inclusive and inspiring spirit of bocce.
The success of this event has set the stage for more inter-generational and dynamic competitions, encouraging players of all ages to come together and celebrate the sport in innovative ways.
3. New Australian and AO Record – Daniel Samsa
Breaking records!
Congratulations to Daniel Samsa for setting a new Australian and AO record in an incredible display of precision and power. This milestone cements his place as one of Australia’s finest bocce talents.
2. Historic achievements and rising stars: Celebrating Australia’s bocce success
As we approach the final two placings, our juniors have delivered outstanding performances, propelling Australia back into the top eight rankings and achieving a historic milestone with two well-deserved bronze medals.
Standout efforts from Max Tricarico and Michael Pevere have made this a first for them and for Australia — a truly proud moment for everyone!
Additionally, our Bocce-Raffa players — Diane Penney, Tina D’Urbano, Silvio Bruzzese, and Joe Rozzo — have also earned medals, marking significant progress in the Bocce-Raffa world. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication, and they deserve high recognition for their remarkable contributions to the sport.
1. Standout of 2024: Diane Penney’s remarkable achievements
Diane Penney has truly shone in 2024. She claimed silver in Turkey, set a new Asia Oceania and Australian Precision Throw record, and earned gold and bronze medals at the AO Bocce Raffa Championships in Malaysia.
Beyond her achievements as a multi-skilled competitor, Diane also excels as a referee in both Bocce Volo and Bocce Raffa. Her unwavering dedication, volunteer efforts, and contributions to the sport embody the true spirit of a sportsperson and athlete.
For these exceptional accomplishments, Diane Penney is my top sportsperson of 2024, creating countless unforgettable moments throughout the year!
Congratulations to Diane Penney for being my standout bocce person of 2024.
Written by Frank Funari, President of Bocce Australia