Tips for Markers
Main Duties
The main duties of a Marker are to:
- Check the mat is placed on the centre line of the rink;
- Centre the jack nb Use your hand or a jack-pusher, never your foot;
- Ensure the jack is at least 23 metres from the front of the mat;
- Answer any specific question from the player in possession of the rink;
- Mark all touchers with chalk;
- Indicate the position of the jack and any touchers in the ditch using the bank markers;
- Measure any disputed shot or shots when asked to by either player;
On completion of the end:
- Record the score on the score card;
- Remove the mat from the previous end if necessary;
On completion of the game:
- Ensure the score card contains the names and signatures of the players;
- Ensure the score card is dealt with as necessary.
Equipment Required
- Chalk;
- Measure;
- Pen / pencil;
- A coin to toss for the start of the game;
- Ideally a few wedges to support any leaning bowls when measuring;
A Few Tips
Before the game:
Introduce yourself to the players (if necessary) and:
- Tell them you would like time to check the mat is on the centre line before the jack is delivered;
- Tell them you will mark touchers before the next bowl is delivered;
- Confirm the rules with them ( eg first to 21 / 18 ends etc)
During the game:
DO:
- Stand on the rink away from the sun so that your shadow is not cast across the head;
- Keep the same position in relation to the jack on each end whenever possible;
- Keep still and quiet unless required to mark a toucher, check the head, or answer a question;
- Ensure the scoreboard is kept up-to-date, either by you or the players if they are happy to do this;
- If it looks like a measure is required wait at the head for the players to take a look;
- Let the players make the decisions; do not suggest anything to them but get confirmation of the number of shots declared;
- Allow the players to measure for themselves if they wish;
DON'T:
- Obscure the rink boundary markers or the centre marker;
- Stand directly behind the jack;
- Engage in unnecessary conversation;
- NEVER move a live bowl at the completion of an end.
After the game:
Shake hands, congratulate the winning player and commiserate with the loser;