Journey to the World Bowls Championships: James Reynolds
Ahead of next week’s World Bowls Championships, the Right at Home Jackaroos share their journeys across the years that has seen them selected for the sport’s showpiece event on the Gold Coast.
Up next, James Reynolds.
How did you get started in bowls?
Started through School Sport
Which was the first bowls club you became involved with?
Pambula Beach Bowling Club
Which clubs have you been involved with throughout your journey?
Albion Park, Tathra Beach, Merimbula, Canberra and very recently Cabramatta
Who is your current club and how have they shown you support throughout your career?
Very recently joined Cabramatta, so very early days. Many of our HP Staff and Jackaroos also play there, so I feel very supported by them naturally. I’ve also been a part of the ACT bowls community for a number of years too and they are highly supportive as well.
Who has been the biggest influence on your bowls journey and why?
There have been my early coaches in Max King and Bill Bruce. Mick Duprez was my state junior coach who also mentored me at club level after I finished school until my early 20’s. Otherwise, influences would be players such as Brett Duprez and Michael Wilks, from whom I’ve learnt from by observing or playing with. I must include my parents, particularly dad who encouraged me to pick one sport at the age of 14 and make it my focus, which has paid off.
Is there a particular coach who has influenced your bowls journey the most?
If I had to pick one only it would be Mick Duprez. He did a lot for me in a very important phase of my life transitioning from Juniors to Opens, as well as living away from home town. Also Ellen Falkner and Claire Turley have been fantastic influences in recent times.
Why is the 2023 World Bowls Championships so important to you and the people who have helped you on your journey?
It’s important to me ofcourse because I’ve put the work in to be in this position, but moreso all the many people that have helped and guided me along the way. This is their reward for their generous supports at varying stages.
