BOCCE BALL COURTS

In 2018, a group of Linden Hill residents who were fans of the splendid Italian game of bocce decided that Linden Hills Park at 42nd and Xerxes Ave. in southwest Minneapolis would be an ideal site for official courts. The courts are along a major walking path to the neighborhood center so many folks drop by to chat and watch from the benches. Also, the children’s play area is next to the courts and the sound of exuberant children is a great backdrop.

With the help of local businesses (Bremer Bank, Sticks and Stones, and Settergren’s Hardware) and enthusiastic volunteers, two regulation-size courts were constructed and donated to the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board.
“Bocce ball is a welcoming sport,” said Steve Benson. “It is easy to get comfortable with the rolling balls, and is perfect for summer afternoons and evenings in this beautiful park. The oldest member of one of the teams is 81, and younger folks love to try their skills on the same team!”

Free sets of bocce balls are available in the park building and other enthusiasts are invited to bring their own sets. On Saturday, April 23 from 1-3 p.m., members of the Linden Hills Bocce Club will be playing and guiding interested folks in developing their skills.

Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board President Meg Forney has been an enthusiastic supporter of bocce in Linden Hills Park since the very beginning. A long standing Bocce court in Beltrami Park in North East Minneapolis provided a great model. “Bocce ball is a unique sport that not only is attractive to our elders, but also to our youth.” said Forney. “Because of its low impact nature, as well as less physically challenging, young people can succeed and our elders can remain engaged. It is a great socializing game. One doesn’t need to be an expert to win. There aren’t too many sports that could boast their true intergenerational nature.”

Evening league are now forming. For information, contact Marc Burgett at marcburgett@msn.com. “We look forward to seeing you soon at the Linden Hills Bocce Ball courts!” said Benson.