This appeared in the Amsterdam Evening Recorder as an opinion article on 09/08/98.
Since that time, The Recorder has changed it's web site and archival processes a few times. At some point the 'by-line' has been striped, so I can't say for sure who wrote it.
In any case, enjoy!
—Pete
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Publication The Amsterdam Recorder
Date September 08, 1998
Page
Brief
Bocce: Is it a civilized game?
I had the pleasure of meeting with a gentleman from the South Side the other day, and was surprised at what I learned. Bocce ball is a worldwide sport, and the world series of bocce ball was held in Rome, Oneida County, this past July. The man with whom I was speaking with is an authority on the subject, James Leggiero.
This may surprise many of you, my regular readers, because as most of you know I never become overly enthused when it comes to sports. My personal opinion is that they are grossly over-emphasized and distorted to accomplish the end they were intended for. But that day, Jim acquainted me with a sport which I believe nearly anyone might enjoy, be they looking for a game of strategy, competition, or simply a sideline to socialize in. Bocce Ball has not yet succumbed to the siren's call of commercialization as have tennis, golf, baseball, or most of the other sports.
Jim is a member of the Frank Cervera Team and is a member of the Port Jackson Club. His team mates are Peter Russo Sr., Pete's son, Peter Russo Jr., and Vincent Belli. Whether we here in Amsterdam realize it or not, these four gentlemen are of championship quality material. They won the regional games held in Mechanicville, at the Padiglione Di-Bocce Club.
Jim invited me to view an array of effects and tokens of the game. Among these was the official magazine, The US Bocce Federation News. There were pictures and commentary from as far off as California. Enthusiasts of the game try to keep in touch with one another via this publication.
At the Rome games this past July, there were teams present from Toronto, Quebec, and some southern states. Jimmy told me the Canadians were among the toughest teams competing at the games and have 100 or more competing teams in their provinces. Many clubs were sponsored by some of the largest names in the business world. Kmart, Wal-Mart, Snapple, Pepsi Cola, and Budweiser were a few of the team backers. All this was surprising to me. I never realized bocce ball went past the South Side of Amsterdam.
I had to ask Jim, "What is there about this game that makes anyone who plays it so enthused?"
"It's an easy game to play," he said. "It's very inexpensive, your age or agility make no difference, there is competition without violence, and it is more than a simple physical game because strategy plays a big part in it."
"Sounds to me as if it would make a good family activity."
"Funny you should say that, but it's true," he replied. "It's an outdoor game that can be, and is, played indoors in a climate-controlled area for year round enjoyment. There is no such place as that in Amsterdam, but the La Cucina Club on Center Street has a mixed league where couples play throughout the summer. There are also league games played at the Port Jackson Club, down by the river. League competition normally lasts about 15 weeks during the summer. We also have a children's league where youngsters, from early on, are coached in the fine points of the game by Joe Boschelli and Joe Babrow.
"All these I mentioned are fun family affairs that allows for people to socialize in the neighborhood rather than traveling to some park, or sitting watching reruns on TV all summer long.
Jim continued his narration. "Two of the best players in the area are Peter Russo Sr. and Jr. Pete Sr., from the time he was a youngster in Italy, has been playing the game since he was 8 years old. Not to be outdone by his father, Pete Jr. has also been active in the sport from just about the same age. They've had many years of perfecting their skills and strategies."
Personally, I had been of the opinion that bocce ball was really a simple game. Jim informed me the game sounds easier than it really is. He went on to describe it.
"The small point ball, or as it is officially called the 'Pauline,' is thrown out first," he said. "Then, each team, having four players to a side, must individually try to get their one allotted ball closer to the Pauline than their opponents nearest one. It then counts as a point. The first side to get 16 points is declared the winner.
He continued on, "Trying to 'kiss' or knock the opponents ball out of contention is where the strategy comes in. It's hard to describe the feeling you get when the ball you rolled manages to kiss the opposing team's ball aside and stops next to the Pauline. That's a lot of fun and there's no need to get dirty or sweaty."
By this time, many of you must think I've fallen off the turnip truck and lost my senses, but, I must say that my chat with Jim was very enlightening. Here was something that not only seemed like fun, but was also doable for anyone, be they older or young, in any kind of physical condition, or whatever their monetary status might be. It's a team game that allows for that individual great shot by a beginner with dumb luck.
Regular league play is Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the local clubs. Port Jackson, which is located near the new marina being built on the South Side, or La Cucina on Center Street welcome any who may be interested.
Bocce ball is a far cry from the games of the gladiators of old, or the football players of today. Some of these were, and are, carried off the field of valor either unconscious, or maimed for life. These may be the games of the hot blooded, who aren't satisfied until their opponent is beaten to a pulp, but bocce ball is the game of civilized individuals who enjoy a dab of competition, while socializing. That's what I call intelligent people having a good time. They play the game for the fellowship it affords. I may try my hand at it.