Clubs should ‘dare to dream’ ahead of 2020 BPL Cup
Bowlers from every corner of the country are being encouraged to follow in the footsteps of South Perth and make the most of BPL Cup opportunities in 2020.
The Millers dominated the 2019 instalment of the event, with three sides qualifying for the national finals played at Club Pine Rivers, and two of them playing off in the final to bring the title home to WA.
The BPL Cup provides an opportunity for club-based teams to progress through various rounds to National Finals, to be played in parallel with the BPL competition featuring some of the best players in the world.
South Perth Bowling Club member and Bowls WA Chief Executive Officer Ken Pride said the club relished in the opportunity to feature at the event.
“There definitely was quite a buzz around the club in the lead up. I’ve been (to the BPL) a few times with my work, but I could never quite explain how fantastic it is to the guys. For them to get involved and experience the whole atmosphere of the week was great,” he said.
“We will be telling everyone we know how amazing the week was and how successful it was. I’d be amazed if the numbers don’t double for next year in WA.”
The BPL Cup follows the Jack Attack and BPL format of short and fast matches, with any team able to get involved.
Pride said the format is something all clubs should get on board with.
“I couldn’t speak more highly of the way it is played and the whole concept,” he said.
“It is short, sharp, exciting and every bowl counts.”
The unique competition enables players from all over Australia to enter at club level, progress through regional and state qualifying, and earn a place on the big stage. Flights, accommodation, rinkside corporate box seats for the televised BPL matches, as well as supporters gear for their adopted BPL team are just some of the prizes to be enjoyed by those that earn a place at the national event.
“It really is a fantastic prize. Perth is a long way away, let me tell you, so to have costs covered to be at an event like the BPL is truly outstanding,” Pride said.
Expressions of interest for clubs looking to host qualifying events will open in mid-January, with team entries to follow shortly afterwards.
“This is only going to get bigger, so if you’re lucky enough to get over here give it a go,” Pride said.
Any questions about the 2020 BPL Cup can be directed to bplcup@bowls.com.au.
