Steve Ventura, Frank Cianci, John Napurano, and John Humphries
Frank Cianci explaining the intricacies of bocce to new club members
The spring season at Robson Ranch kicked off with enthusiasm as the Bocce Club hosted a new member orientation on Feb. 22. Over two dozen fresh faces gathered to acquaint themselves with the ins and outs of the beloved game, guided by none other than President Frank Cianci, 1st Vice President John Humphries, 2nd Vice President Steve Ventura, and Webmaster John Napurano.
President Cianci set the tone with an introduction to the club, while the other officials provided insights into the game’s intricacies. Amidst chuckles and camaraderie, the origins of team names—reminiscent of a certain organized crime milieu—were revealed, adding a touch of humor to the proceedings.
An essential aspect of the orientation was the assembly of the courts, meticulously crafted to ensure optimal playing conditions. Rick Bidne’s dedication in maintaining the courts, constructed ingeniously with PVC pipes, was duly acknowledged. Newcomers learned the importance of precision in handling the equipment, with detailed instructions available on the bocce website.
With the stage set, attention turned to the fundamentals of bocce gameplay. Participants were acquainted with the distinctive red and green balls, alongside the diminutive Pallino—the coveted target. As the rules were explained, it became evident that bocce offered an accessible yet engaging pastime, fostering friendly competition among players.
Following verbal instructions, new members eagerly engaged in practice matches, experiencing firsthand the unique challenges posed by each court. The diverse playing surfaces at Robson Ranch promised an exciting journey for enthusiasts, especially as plans for new courts were underway.
On Feb. 26 a gathering of captains (capos) and commissioners (commishes) convened, marked by lively discussions and a tempting spread of donuts. The meeting underscored the vital roles of capos and commishes, emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding of rules and responsibilities. The Commish’s Corner emerged as a valuable resource for clarifying regulations, underscoring the club’s commitment to transparency and fairness.
With 12 divisions and a packed schedule spanning four days a week, meticulous planning has been integral to ensuring a seamless season. With beautiful spring weather predicted, bocce aficionados can look forward to spirited matches held on the patio. As anticipation mounts for the season opener on March 12, excitement builds for the culminating spring playoffs slated for May 14 through May 15.
As the Robson Ranch Bocce Club embraces new members and prepares for an action-packed season, the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship continues to thrive, making each roll of the ball a moment of shared joy and friendly competition.