06/22/2023
Lastly, the Role of the Skip
1. You are in charge of your team as director. You must decide, with your opponent, any dispute or refer it to the umpire. Sign both score sheets at the end of a match, and act as scorer in a pairs match.
2. It is part of your job to instruct your Lead and Vice as to how you want them to play their shots with the best chance of producing a score for your team. Should one of your teammates fail to make the shot called for, don't be critical. Remember, the player knows without being told that it was a bad shot.
3. Stand still, don't move around the head. This can be quite distracting to other players.
4. When your opponent delivers the last bowl at the conclusion of an end, it is your responsibility to remove the mat.
5. It is important to remember that as the director of your team, your attitude towards your teammates and the game will often make the difference between a loss or win. The purpose of the game is to enjoy yourself, make it enjoyable for others and win if you can. But, when your team is down and the breaks seem to be all going against you, even the most naĂŻve should recognize that encouragement of your team may accomplish what caustic criticism or languishing on the bench when the Lead or Vice is on the mat can never, never accomplish. You may not win the game, but your popularity will increase immeasurably.
Tips For Skips
1. Leads should not be asked to drive (roll runners).
2. Skips should decide which hand plays best and stick with it if possible.
2. Build each head safely. If you must lose an end, it should be by a low score.
4. When you have the shot, bowl for position. When you're down a shot, draw.
5. Do not call for position bowls that will give your opponents a chance to wick in or rest on.
6. Try to cover all positions that jack would take if wicked.
7. Know when your team is in a position to make a big score.
8. The drive is both an offensive and defensive weapon. Use it to nullify an end, move the jack, or push a bowl up.
9. Blocks are very difficult to make. Practice block shots with opposite hand.