9/11/2017 Revised Bocce Courts 4 HB (Huntington Beach)

Bocce Courts 4 HB
(Huntington Beach)
A Report In Progress – Subject To Revisions, & Additions
Last Update: September 11, 2017
(HB) Community Services Commission – Mission Statement
The mission of the Community Services Commission is to make recommendations
to the City Council on matters relating to development, acquisition, and renovation
of park, beach, and recreational facilities.
Source: http://www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/government/boards_commissions/community_services_commission.cfm
“Next to Soccer and Golf, Bocce is the third most participated sport in the world
and is considered the oldest know sport in world history.”
“...there are more than 25,000,000 Bocce enthusiasts throughout the United States today.”
Source: United States Bocce Federation (USBF) – History of Bocce http://usbf.us/history-of-bocce.html
For: HB Community Services Commission – Wed. Sept. 13, 2017
By: John Redaelli
Home Phone: (714) 536-0279
e-mail: jjrinhb@aol.com

Table of Contents
Page 1: “Skateboarding and bocce ball part of Edison Park revamp” OC Register -6/24/09
Pg. 1A: FINAL DRAFT REPORT, City of HB, Park & Recreation Master Plan, 2/16 (Bocce Ball, Forgotten?)
Pg. 1B: Flyer/Announcement – Call for Support, Bocce Courts 4 HB (Huntington Beach)
Pg. 2-3: Ongoing Opening Statement by John Redaelli, and, one Bocce Court in Fountain Valley, Heritage Park
80’ long X 10’ wide
Pg. 4: Tustin, Peppertree Park, 2 Bocce Courts - Artificial Grass (carpet) & Sand surface, 74’-8” X 11’-9”
Pg. 5-6: “Tustin finds a new way to have a ball”- (Peppertree Park) OC Register- 9/11/14
Pg. 6: Mission Viejo, Oso Viejo Community Park, Norman Murray Senior Center, 2 Bocce Courts – Crushed
Oyster Shell surface, 91’ long X 12’-8” wide
Pg. 7: “Bocce courts open at Mission Viejo’s Norman Murray Center” OC Register – 2/23/16
Pg. 7-8: Laguna Niguel-Marina Hills Park, 3 Bocce Courts-Crushed Oyster Shell, 97’-9” X 13’-9”
Pg. 9-10: “Proposal for Marina Hills Park Bocce Courts Shade Structure” - 10/18/16 ($65,000), and Shade
Structure Systems – “Shade-N-Net”
Pg. 11-13: Torrance-Columbia Park, 3 Bocce Courts, Synthetic Grass (carpet) surface, & Lights
Pg. 13: “Official Opening of Bocce Courts @ Columbia Park” - Jackie Balestra • December 10, 2016
Pg. 14-15: Closing Statement, and, Why Are We Here?
Supplement
Pg. 16-17: Possible Bocce Venue Park Locations; Edison Community Center
Pg. 17-19: Murdy Park Pg. 20: Worthy Park Pg. 21: Harriett M. Wieder Regional Park
Pg. 22: Senior Center in Central Park Pg. 23-24: Huntington Central Park West
Pg. 25: Measurements/Diagram – 6 & 4 Bocce Courts
Pg. 26-28: What is the correct surface for a bocce court? The Case for Synthetic Resin
Pg. 29-30: The Case for Synthetic Resin - Phone & E-Mail Communications/Research/Costs
Pg. 31-32: My Notes, and More about the Marin Bocce Federation (MBF), and History
Pg. 33: 2017 Southern California Bocce Association Tournament Schedule, Official website of the candidacy of
Boules Sport at Olympic Games (2024), and Bocce Venue Wish List
Pg. 34: Your Notes, and Appropriate Bocce Ball Court Signage
Pa. 35: (9.7.17) Comments by, Frank Rivera – Vice President, United States Bocce Federation (USBF)
Let’s Get The Ball Rolling - http://www.slideserve.com/aderes/sowa-and-bocce-lets-get-the-ball-rolling
***Access Links: Via Word Doc File, Right Click over link, then Click - Open Hyperlink

..SkateboardingandbocceballpartofEdisonParkrevamp
By JAIMEE LYNN FLETCHER | Orange County Register - June 24, 2009
HUNTINGTON BEACH- Plans torevamp Edison Community Park could include a new skate park,
bocce ball courts and playing fields, among other additions.
The city this month received Planning Commission approval for a master plan toreconfigure the 40-acre
Edison Park in the 2100 block of Magnolia Avenue.
The park is home tobatting cages and twobaseball diamonds; tennis, basketball, volleyball and
racquetball courts; picnic and play areas; a community center and 132parking spaces.
The city wants toutilize the park’sopen spaces and add a playing field, expand the parking lot by 124
spaces and construct a new parking lot with 120 spaces, build a skate park and install two bocce ball
courts, according to a city report.
The master plan is expected tobe implemented in four phases over the next eight years.
Phases one and twoare expected tofocus on constructing the new parking lot and fields. Phase three
would introduce new park facilities, such as the skate park. Thefinal phase would be the expansion of the
existing parking lot.
The redesign of walkways and removing and replacing about 200 trees would be worked on throughout
the eight-year construction period.
City officials said plans are preliminary and there is not yet a cost estimate or an anticipated construction
start date.
Although the basic plan was approved, specifics may havetocome back before the Planning Commission
as the project moves forward.
Contact the writer: 949-553-2932 or jfletcher@ocregister.com
Source: http://www.ocregister.com/2009/06/24/skateboarding-and-bocce-ball-part-of-edison-park-revamp/
1

A...FINAL DRAFT REPORT – City of Huntington Beach – Park & Recreation Master Plan – February 2016
Source: http://www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/announcements/attachments/Parks-and-Recreation-Master-Plan-Rev2016.2.5.pdf
It’s obvious by this report, Bocce Ball does not rank high as a recreational need.
Hopefully, we can change that...

B...Flyer/Announcement - Call for Support, Bocce Courts 4 HB (Huntington Beach)

..Ongoing Opening Statement by John Redaelli:
I was taught the game of bocce as a young boy by my Italian/American parents. I took a liking to it right away,
and discovered I had a talent for the game at such a young age. Since that time I have played bocce off and on
throughout my life, never playing or aware of bocce courts, just mostly playing at family gatherings on grass in
backyards, or at parks. A few years ago I discovered the one bocce court in Fountain Valley, at Heritage Park...
Fountain Valley, Heritage Park...Sign - “Bocce Courts 4 HB (Huntington Beach)”

..One bocce court in Fountain Valley, Heritage Park - Crushed Oyster Shell surface, 80’ Long X 10’ Wide
Simple Bocce Court Construction, heavy railroad like ties for sidewalls - with Picnic Tables and Permanent
(Green) Benches – Nearest restrooms are a short walk inside the Fountain Valley Library, right behind this court.

..I went to see what other bocce courts I could discover in Orange County and elsewhere...
Tustin, Peppertree Park - 2 Bocce Courts 74’-8” X 11’-9” - Carpet with Sand surface - Area 85’X54’= 4590 sq. ft.

..Tustin finds a new wayto have a ball
By RAYMOND MENDOZA | Orange County Register September 11, 2014 at 12:00 am
With the swing of an arm, the clack of one hardplastic ballstrikinganotherand the soundof cheers
– bocce ball has finally made its way to Tustin.
After fours years of planningand five months of construction,the city hosted a grandopening Sept.
3 of two bocce ball courts at Peppertree Park.
The event drew Tustin residents,members of the Sons of Italy from the Renaissance Lodge of
Greater Orange County and Tustincity government workers.
David Wilson,director of parks andrecreation services,said the newbocce ball courts will be a
boon to the residents as an interestingform of entertainment and a new mode of exercise for those
who frequentthe nearby senior center.
Wilson said the courts cost morethan $122,000with$105,000of the total being paidfor by the
federally fundedCommunity Development BlockGrant.
Mayor Al Murray, who threwout of the inauguralbocce ball as a demonstration,said he hopedthat
the game would inspire younger generations to get off theirsmartphones andform personal
connections withthe senior community.
“I think one of the great things I hopeit will do is bringyoung andold together,”Murray said. “It’s
one of those sports that seniors can participate in and its not too physically demanding and the kids
enjoy it … I think it’s really goingto be good for allthe communities.”
Murray also thankedformerTustin MayorTony Coco forhis ongoingsupportwithgetting the
bocce ball courts built.
Coco said his four-year crusade to bringbocce ballcourts to Tustinstarted with the supportof 50
senior citizens and was fueled by his lifelonglove of the sport; his childhoodhouse hada bocce ball
court. Coco saidthatthe completion of the courts was a “real relief.”
“It’s been a dream for me for a longtime,”Coco said. “I had to wait four years,but nowit’s here.”
The additionof the new courts has createda lot of attention, according to Wilson,who saidhe had
already been approachedby several organizations wantingto use the courts to host tournaments for
“We’re just excitedaboutthe multitudes of uses,”Wilsonsaid. (Cont. next page 6)

..(Cont.) Wilson saidthatresidents can check out the equipment fromthe Tustin Area Senior
Center at no cost and that the city will alsoallowthe court to be reserved for private use.
Call the senior center at 714-573-3340for more information.
Source: http://www.ocregister.com/2014/09/11/tustin-finds-a-new-way-to-have-a-ball/
Mission Viejo, recently built 2 bocce courts at Oso Viejo Community Park/Norman Murray Sr. Center
2 Bocce Courts 91’ long X 12-8” wide - Crushed Oyster Shell surface - Area 113’ X 33’= 3729 sq. ft.

..Bocce courts openat MissionViejo’sNorman Murray Center
By TOMOYA SHIMURA | tshimura@scng.com | Orange County Register
February 23, 2016 at 4:46 pm
MISSION VIEJO – Fans of the Italiansport of bocce celebratedonSaturdaythe openingof newcourts next
to the NormanP. MurrayCommunityand Senior Center.
In bocce, whichmeans “balls”in Italian, balls are thrownor rolleddowna long, rectangular court, according
to the UnitedStates BocceFederation. Players tryto landtheir balls closestto the target ball.
The citybeganproviding a bocce ball program inJuly2015, whichinstantlybecame popular, saidMarkNix,
director ofrecreationandcommunityservices. The CityCouncil thenapprovedspending$190,000 tobuild
two courts next to the senior center.
Saturday’s openingceremonyfeaturedaribboncuttingandbocce lessons for beginners. MissionViejo
resident AnnaT. Boyce, who ledthe request to createboccecourts, threwthe first marker.
More than100 people, ages 8 through80-plus, attendedthe event, cityofficials said.
The two courts are opendailyfrom 7 a.m. to duskat 24932Veterans Way. Equipment is available for
checkout at the NormanP. MurrayCommunityand Senior Center. The courts are available onafirst-come,
first-serve basis.
A bocce clubmeets from 9 a.m.-noononThursdays, Nix said.
Contact the writer: 949-445-6397or tshimura@ocregister.com
Source: http://www.ocregister.com/2016/02/23/bocce-courts-open-at-mission-viejos-norman-murray-center/
The next bocce courts/venue I discovered was found in Laguna Niguel, at Marina Hills Park. One of the very
few locations that has 3 bocce courts (Torrance & Hawthorne, has 3 bocce courts). This is significant because a
third court can drastically reduce the time of a tournament by 1/3. A typical 16 players/teams, double
elimination bocce tournament held at a venue with 2 courts can last about 12 hours. Whereas, a venue with 3
bocce courts, can last about 8 hours. Some photos of the 3 Crushed Oyster Shell courts in, Laguna Niguel...

..Marina Hills Park, LN – 2 permanent benches under roof structure & nearby storage shed at one end.
3 courts, 97’-9”X13’-9” wide, land area - 126’X60’= 7560 sq. ft. – 3 picnic tables, shade structure & mesh cover

..Laguna Niguel Bocce Club – Bocce Court Improvements - Proposal for Marina Hills Park
Bocce Courts Shade Structure – October 18, 2016 by JTIANO123
Submitted to Laguna Niguel Sports Committee, October 13, 2016
Submitted by Laguna Niguel Bocce Club
Currently there are over 100 members of the Laguna Niguel Bocce Club who use the
Marina Hills Bocce courts for an average of 30 hours weekly. There are also many local
residents who use the courts at various times of the day that include dog walkers and park
strollers.
The majority of players using the courts are adult and 75% are seniors who reside in
Laguna Niguel. The Marina Hills Bocce Courts are one of the few athletic facilities in
Laguna Niguel frequently usedby families, adults and senior citizens. All of the use is
during the day because there are no lights.
• The bocce courts are usedby as many as 30 players at a time 52 weeks a year. Bocce is
not a seasonal recreational sport. They receive at least 25 hours of organized play weekly.
• The bocce courts are one of the few recreational facilities that can be usedby men and
women seniorcitizens of all ages. The Laguna Niguel Bocce Club has many active players
in their eighties and nineties.
• The bocce courts are not only used by seniors, but are frequently used by entire families.
• The requested improvements are supported by hundreds of Laguna Niguel residents.
Replace old partial shade structure with new extended shade structure that only shades
one court.

..(Cont.) Shade Structure Proposal, and Shade Structure Systems, “Shade-N-Net”
New bocce court shade structure request
Estimate cost of new structure $65,000
The impact on the park is to provide additional shade for bocce players and recreational
walkers.
Many of the senior players have to limit there playing because of the lack of adequate sun
protection on the South end of the courts. There several long term benefits to the park and
residents.
• It will help protect players with skin cancer from unnecessary exposure to sun damage.
• Provide a well shaded place for dog walkers and families.
• Make the Marina Hills Bocce Courts one of the best sporting facilities in California.
• The current shade structure on the North end of the courts provides the only place in the
park for social gatherings and picnics. Adding an additional shade structure on the South
end of the courts will double the capacity for picnics and social gatherings.
We have gathered several hundredsignatures of Laguna Niguel residents who support this
park improvement. All of these residents believe a new shade structure would greatly
enhance the bocce courts. Source: https://bocceplayers.com/2016/10/18/bocce-court-improvements/
(Possible Resource – Shade Structure Systems) Shade-N-Net: https://shade-n-net.com/

..Another bocce venue with 3 bocce courts is in Torrance, at Columbia Park. I had a chance to visit
this venue late in the construction phase. See, concrete sub-surface, 6”curbs, and surrounding brick pavers...
Courts, 3’ apart, 89’-8” long X 11’-9” wide - Land area 112’ X 58’= 6496 sq.ft. - Plenty of Free Parking, nearby -
Now completed, I had the opportunity to compete in a 4-player team, dbl. elimination tournament – 8/20/17

..This well intentioned, beautiful looking venue in Torrance, is not without problems related to the
levelness of its concrete sub-surface, and the synthetic grass (carpet) that was glued to the concrete...
The gap beneath the inferior 2X4 sideboard on the right, indicates a dip in the levelness in the concrete.
Causing a far less than true roll of the bocce ball. Unfortunately, this problem is prevelant in many areas.
Also, throughout, the inferior synthetic grass is lifting up from the concret it was glued to & causing ball marks

..On the plus side, the venue in Torrance has it attributes...Wheelchair Accessibility for all courts via
removable gate, Skateboard Stops to help prevent skateboarding damage, and Lights for nighttime play
Official Opening of Bocce Courts @ Columbia Park
by Jackie Balestra • December 10, 2016
The City of Torrance will gather to mark the Official Opening of Bocce Courts at Columbia Park on Saturday,
December 10 at 10 a.m.
Major components of the Bocce Courts project include three regulation-size bocce ball courts. The courts
include concrete perimeter curbing; synthetic grass playing surfaces; brick paver spectator areas; and fully
handicap accessible viewing and playing areas. The location was formerly used for roller hockey and
basketball.
Bocce is a sport similar to lawn bowling played on a court that is about 90 feet long and about 12 feet wide. A
game can be conducted between two players or two teams of up to four players each. Players attempt to score
points by rolling a ball down the court and getting the closest to a smaller ball called a pallino.
Local bocce advocates approached the City requesting that consideration be given to constructing Bocce Courts
at Columbia Park. The group donated $21,483 for the project. On April 14, 2015, the City Council appropriated
the donation, and additional funding was allocated to the project from Parks and Recreation Open Space Funds.
“I am happy to say that we are pleased with the overall result of the new fully accessible Bocce Courts at
Columbia Park. They are now ready to be enjoyed by present and future generations of Torrance residents,”
said John Jones, Community Services Director.
The City thanks the community for its patience, cooperation and support throughout the renovation process, and
invites the public to join in the celebration of the Columbia Park Bocce Court dedication.
The Bocce Courts are located in Columbia Park at 4045 190 Street, near the east parking lot off Prairie Avenue.
Source: http://www.southbaybyjackie.com/official-opening-bocce-ball-courts-columbia-park/
Also, CONSTRUCTION OFBOCCE COURTS INSTALLATION ATCOLUMBIA PARK,TORRANCE (pdf) http://bit.ly/2wcWEB3
Project Name: Bocce Courts Installation At Columbia Park, FEAP 914 - http://bit.ly/2wzhzyB
South Bay Bocce Courts Project - Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pg/southbayboccecourts/about/
South Bay Bocce Club (SBBC) - Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SouthBayBocce/
SBBC’s Seven Year Journey by Bob Chiota (Pg.6-8) http://usbf.us/uploads/3/5/1/8/35186547/winter_2017.pdf

..Closing Statement: This past year, I’ve become a member of the San Pedro Bocce Club (SPBC),
South Bay Bocce Club (SBBC – Torrance), and the United States Bocce Federation (USBF)
(The USBF is the governing body for Bocce for in the United States - http://usbf.us/index.html).
I also sponsored, “The John Redaelli Bocce Singles Open Tournament Hosted by, San Pedro Bocce Club” (2.12.17)

..Closing Statement (Cont.) My bocce tournament caught the eye of USBF Vice Pres. - Frank Rivera,
and as Editor of the USBF Western Sector Newsletter, he included a tournament recap in the March-2017 Edition
Page 13-14 Source: http://usbf.us/-newsletters-and-quarterlies.html
So Why Are We Here???
Many of us who seek to play bocce on tournament style courts must travel far distances on busy roads, and
freeways, spending too much money on gas, and too many hours traveling back and forth. We are here before
your comm./council, to kindly request that you put forth consideration towards building a bocce venue with a
minimum of 4 synthetic/resin style courts to support; recreational bocce play for HB residents of all ages, and
disabilities, for support of a likely bocce club (Surf City Bocce?), and to support local, regional, & US Bocce
Federation sanctioned national tournaments. I believe HB would serve our city well, firstly; by creating the
only local bocce facility - with 4 courts. Secondly; by choosing a synthetic/resin type court surface that avoids
constant maintenance, and replenishing of court surface materials (such as crushed oyster shell, decomposed
granite, and other organic soils). As well as providing the best surface that best achieves a consistent, true
bocce ball roll, with the least amount of arm effort and strain. Unlike the extra effort that is required to roll a
bocce ball over synthetic grass (carpet), as is the case with the courts in Torrance, at Columbia Park.
By providing a first class bocce facility as described, that includes the ability to play at night, that provides
plenty of nearby free parking, adequate bathroom facilities, and plenty of covered picnic tables, will only
enhance the desire and opportunity for social gatherings, exercise, competition, and loads of fun! With careful
planning, forethought, high standards, & excellent workmanship, we can build a facility that makes us all proud!
Let The Good Times Roll!

..Supplement – Possible Bocce Venue Park Locations;
Edison Community Park – It appears there were plans for two bocce courts as part of a Master Plan
reconfiguration (For ref. - See, page 1 - news article). Were these courts to be located behind the Fire Station?
There is ample parking nearby, many covered picnic tables, and a short walk to the bathrooms at the
community center. It appears some trees may have to be removed, and a reworking of existing pathways, and
sidewalks. (Red box represents possible area for bocce courts, & looking at back of Fire Station, bottom pic)

..(Cont.) Edison Community Park – (Looking towards Hamilton Ave., at the area behind Fire Station)
I know there are those among my bocce friends that would be pleased to see bocce courts at EdisonCommunity
Park. Among my concerns is with the stability of the ground/soil. It should be well know how the unstable
ground has devastated some nearby tennis courts at the park. Also, I have concern with the history of
methane gas leaks at, or near the park as a result of the previous landfill (For ref. – “Park area to close to vent
methane from landfill” -2.20.2009 - http://www.ocregister.com/2009/02/20/park-area-to-close-to-vent-
methane-from-landfill/ ). And, the nearby area across from Hamilton Ave. (Corner of Hamilton Ave. &
Magnolia St. – ASCON Landfill Site), has a troubled (toxic) landfill history as well (For ref. -
http://1x57.com/culture/our-local-toxic-waste-dump-in-huntington-beach/ ). Moving on, let’s consider some
other locations/parks for our bocce courts...
Murdy Park (7000 Norma Drive) – At this location I considered the area at the park, between the basketball
courts, and the covered picnic tables. I wanted to see if I could measure/mark an area of roughly 100’ X 100’=
10,000 sq. ft...At the time, I was thinking of an area that would allow for 6 bocce courts. For, 4 bocce courts, I
calculate a minimumof 100’X70’ (Thisincludesaminimum5’perimeter,beyondthe courtsoneach side). 100’x81’(pic)

..(Cont.) Murdy Park – It appears this park could allow for 4 bocce courts. My measurement of
100’X81’ tried to stay clear of some hilly areas. Otherwise, some degree of grading/excavation might be
necessary. The pov in the pic below isfrom the parking lot, unseen - basketball courts are left, and picnic tables, right.
Bottom pic- opposite pov, Comm. Center& parking lot inback- Right, basketball courts- Left, unseen picnic tables

..(Cont.) Murdy Park – Standing near BBall courts on the left- on the right,part of uncovered picnic tables
Standing nearby covered picnic tables - looking towards BB courts - hilly areas seen in background in both photos

..Worthy Park – Not sure if there is an area available for (4) bocce courts at this park? This satellite photo does not
show recent construction. I believe the former basketball courts will become (4) Pickleball courts, and the large grass y area to
become soccer fields? There is a lot of parking, & nearby, restrooms, but short on picnic tables.
Ref. - https://www.constructionbidsource.com/archives/worthy-park-reconfiguration-project-huntington-beach-ca
8/4/17 Center photo – area for Pickleball courts...Bottom photo – area for Soccer fields. Any area available for (4) Bocce Courts?

..Harriett M. Wieder Regional Park – This beautiful scenic park overlooks, the Bolsa Chica Ecological
Reserve & Ocean. Has restrooms, short on picnic tables, and has limited parking.
Top photo POV - Reserve (wetlands) in background – Below photo, opposite POV, limited parking lot in background

..Senior Center in Central Park – The main reason I oppose bocce courts at this location for seniors is
that it may/would prevent use by all those who are not seniors. I would like our bocce courts to be available
for HB residents of all ages. When I visited this location I was surprised by how few parking spaces were
available in such a large parking lot, unlike what you see here in this satellite photo.
Large grassy area behind Senior Center building, portion of parking lot in background

..Huntington Central Park West – Just a short walk from behind the Senior Center, this location might
be my favorite spot to consider for (4) bocce courts, or more! Nearby, large parking lot, restrooms, covered
picnic tables, and when I’m through playing some games of bocce, Kathy May’s is close by for lunchbythe lake!
The red box represents an area of at least 100’X100’= 10,000’ sq. ft...
Restrooms, on left of box, further left, large parking lot, and covered picnic tables just below left corner of box

..(Cont.) Huntington Central Park West – With my back to the Senior Center, and looking towards
Kathy May’s Lakeview Café, covered picnic tables on the left in the distance, and restroom bldg. on the right..
Look at all that land, in a beautiful scenic park, ready to be enhanced and enjoyed, with beautiful bocce courts!
8/17/2017 With long distance measuring tape in hand, I used red cones to measure out an area(red box, above)
of 100’X100’= 10,000 sq. ft., with plenty of room to spare.Unseenrestroombldg. ison the immediate left. Covered
picnictables are behind me, to the right. The Senior Center bldg., is between the treesinthe distance,tothe right.

..Measurements for Bocce Courts –
(Not to Scale – Just a Fair Example – Final Measurements Must be Studied, and Scrutinized, for Final Design)
Minimum Land Area for 6 Courts – 100’ X 100’= 10,000’ sq. ft.
Minimum Land Area for 4 Courts – 100’ X 70’ (68.32’)= 7,000 sq. ft.
5’ Perimeter, made of concrete, stone, brick pavers, or other - surrounding, and between double set of courts
Each Court (1-6) – 90’ Long X 13+’ Wide
Notes:
Diagramabove does not indicate size width of curbs surrounding each court. During my tour of bocce venues,
I typically measured curbs of at least 6+” (inches), as in the case with the courts in Torrance, at Columbia Park.
To save space, and perhaps some cost, my diagram pair two courts together, that share a common middle
border/wall. Otherwise, typically you see courts divided 3’-8’ apart.
To begin an earnest study of bocce court dimensions I suggest referring to the official United States Bocce
Federation (USBF) website - http://usbf.us/bocce-court-size.html (They list court size in meters; 26.5-27.5
meters long X 2.5-4.5 meters wide). But, my measurements in feet are comparable, & are in this meter range.

.. What is the correct surface for a bocce court?
Regulation bocce courts can be made from mixtures of various surfaces including dirt, clay, cement,
asphalt, and synthetic resin. Note: Non-Regulation courts are made from grass, carpet, or synthetic turf;
however these surfaces are often used as substitutes in the recreational form of bocce known as “Open
Rules”. Source: http://usbf.us/correct-bocce-court-surface.html
The Case for Synthetic Resin
Photo Source: http://www.thatssopedro.com/my-waterfront-bocce-with-robert-castagnola/
Unlike the Crushed Oyster Shell surface on this bocce court (See, the photo above), and used at many of the
bocce venues I toured, Synthetic Resin provides more exacting, precise, and consistent ball speed, with the
goal of eliminating constant upkeep, maintenance, and replenishing of top surface materials (as shown below).
Oyster Shell Court Preparations – Brooming, raking, rolling, and replenishing of court surface materials, is a constant necessity

..(Cont.) The Case for Synthetic Resin
I have verified with, Michael B. Grasser – President, DaVinci Bocce, that he installed the synthetic resin surface
on these bocce courts (See pic) inFremont,CA,for- Campodi Bocce (Ref. - http://campodibocce.com/fremont/).
Later on, I found out Michael was requested to do the same for their other courts in Livermore, and Los Gatos.
But, a scheduling conflict prevented him from doing so. Campo di Bocce, then turned to the Italian company –
Colleoni, to do their other courts. (Colleoni - http://www.colleonibocce.com/en/ & DaVinci Bocce -
http://www.davincibocce.com/pages/Bocce-Court-Construction.html)
See, photos above -
Outside synthetic resin courts at Campo di Bocce (Livermore) Source: http://campodibocce.com/livermore/

..(Cont.) The Case for Synthetic Resin – See, (2) outside bocce court photos below of,
Campo di Bocce (Los Gatos). Source: http://campodibocce.com/los-gatos/

Page...29 (Cont.) The Case for Synthetic Resin – Phone & E-mail Communications/Research/Costs
8/31/17 I spoke by phone with Rose Kosar (mailto:rose@marinbocce.org) of the, Marin Bocce Federation.
Rose, explained the Italian company, Colleoni, reconstructed 2 of their bocce courts at a cost of $27,000 each
= $54,000. (Story & Photos - http://marinbocce.org/photos/reconstruction-of-gh-courts/)
Based on my beginning research, if I had to ballpark a general average figure amount on the cost of each
synthetic resin bocce court, I would put it in the range of $20,000 - $30,000. Without a design, specifications,
and a clear, detailed work description, it’s hard to predict the actual cost.
8/14/17 I spoke by phone with Michael B. Grasser – Pres., DaVinci Bocce
(http://www.davincibocce.com/pages/Contact-Information.html), I found out he trained with the Italian
company, Colleoni. Michael quoted me a rough figure of $20,000 per court. And, $4,500 to renew each court
after so many years of wear, and aging (10-20 years). More about his BowlSystemK2 synthetic surface bocce
courts – http://www.davincibocce.com/content/Da%20Vinci%20Bocce%20Synthetic%20Courts.pdf
8/17/17 I spoke by phone with Phil, at Bocce Builders of America. Phil, suggested using their Pacific Pearl
Bocce Surface, claiming it to be more durable, especially at a open park like setting, and at half the cost of
pure synthetic. As explained on their website about, Pacific Pearl –
“Our proprietary alternative to the old organic materials is our hybrid Pacific Pearl Bocce Surface System which
incorporates a fibered synthetic medium, an organic sub angular cushioning layer, and our hand blended oyster
shell play layer direct from the San Francisco bay. This surface has a natural organic look with the benefits of
virtually no maintenance, a consistent play surface, and no dust.” Source:
http://www.boccebuildersofamerica.com/pacific-pearl
9/1/17 Trying to communicate with someone far away in Italy has proven thus far to be a little difficult. And,
Daniel / Colleoni, has explained, that they are really busy preparing bocce courts, for clubs to get ready for the
new season starting in October. At Daniel’s request, my e-mail included some of the park pictures included in
this report (Murdy Park, & Huntington Central Park West). I’ll continue with Daniel, as best I can, to see what I
can learn, and find out.
9/3/17 E-Mail Update From: Daniel / Colleoni
Good Morning Mr Redaelli,
thank you to contacting us,
i hope to don't miss any question you made,
DURABILITY: the courts we made in PRESTIGE (Ref. - http://www.colleonibocce.com/en/the-court/) method are
professional, to keep it in good shape and to give them a long life is better take them care. They can stay outdoor and has
no problem but can be damaged if people example: use rollers or skates and other stuff.
GUARANTY: we guaranty our works for 3 year, courts lives longer, in a normal use (2-3 H day) after 10 years is
suggested replace the final grit on top, but you can play on it for more 10 years if you want. Will became faster and will
take more wear we people walk more, but they are ok.
MARIN BOCCE: About them, they have a problem with water drainage, we came back and fix courts, but they have to
solve the problem with water drainage. The main pipe is to little to collect all the water from the bocce court.
ASPHALT: asphalt is recommended because isolate from the ground and give flexibility to the court, asphalt keep it
longer. We don’t apply resin on concrete if is not indoor place. It can't stays longer if you want good courts to play on it.
PRICE: just to give you a number to finish your relation, The Prestige package, will take 45.000/49.000 € for 4 courts.
(asphalt cost excluded: buy and transport - they make on the quarry on place)
price will include, material, delivery in US, hire tools (except asphalt compactor), team costs, drafting asphalt, works on
courts price will exclude, asphalt cost and delivery on courts, lateral board, tax and duty,
15 days of works - days are considered without rains and 20°C min
delivery with boat will take 45/55 days problems excluded
delivery with airplane will take 10/15 days problems excluded

..(Cont.) 9/3/17 E-Mail Update From: Daniel / Colleoni, & Other
FREE INFO: we are working on new product, it will be cheaper because is made and rolled up, customers has only to
make a even place and roll it down, so if you have no to much rush, in the next year we have to decide if sell it directly or
through a local dealer. Is not comparable with Prestige, but could be an idea.
If you need an estimate on headed paper, I will try to make it soon, but in this 2 next week I will be in Switzerland to take
care a new project. I hope the price and info I gave to you help, let me know if is enough for now or if you need on headed
paper.
If you need to speak with me directly my number is +39 3457002735, or you can write back here
(mailto:info@colleonibocce.com)
I wish you a good day,
Sincerely
Daniel
COLLEONI srl,
Via Porta,3. 20064 GorgonzolaMI
Tel:0223052756Fax 0223052757
www.colleonibocce.com
9/7/17 Another E-Mail Update From: Daniel / Colleoni
Good Morning,
I wrote under your text the answer in blue,
for anything just let me know,
I wish you a good day,
Daniel
COLLEONI srl,
Via Porta,3. 20064 GorgonzolaMI
Tel:0223052756Fax 0223052757
www.colleonibocce.com
Thank You, Daniel
Yes, the information you sent is helpful, and I will include it in my report to the city (HB).
If I understand you correctly the quote you gave me - 45.000/49.000 € for 4 courts DOES NOT INCLUDE the cost for the
asphalt. The cost you gave me for the 4 courts is roughly $53,000-$58,000 in US dollars.
Yes but exchange rate go up and down, so for example in March was1.06$=1€
And, then the cost of the asphalt is added...I wish I had a rough idea how much this will add to the final, total cost? Is
asphalt priced by the square foot, or by the ton (weight)? Also, if I understand you correctly, the asphalt cost amount is
effected by if it is made here, or needs to be transported by plane, or boat from, Italy? Is that correct? It would be helpful
for me if you could give a rough range for asphalt cost, with delivery. What's the most it could cost, versus the least
amount, or minimum. Is that cost about $5000 per court, more or less depending on delivery?
the asphalt is made locally and has to be really hot, I don’t know where is the nearest asphalt quarry to you and
which price you can deal with them, but roughly costs 1,000/1,500$ for 10ton each court, so you can have
4,000/6,000$ and depending form the quarry, you can consider 500/1,500$ for transport
I tried to call the phone number 011 (long distance code) +39 02 95306051 - the phone rang, but nobody answered...It
was after midnight (after 12:00 am) here in Huntington Beach, when I called. If I'm correct, it's after 9:00 am, there in,
Italy? If you need to speak with me just deal 0039 345 7002735
9/11/17 I spoke, again, by phone with Rose Kosar (Phone 415 485-5583 mailto:rose@marinbocce.org) of the,
Marin Bocce Federation - http://marinbocce.org/. I wanted to know what ill effects if any, the use of a
wheelchair has on the playing surface (synthetic resin by, Colleoni)? Rose, explained to me the one court that
is wheelchair accessible, has NO DAMAGE from wheelchair use.
Rose, also provided the name, Ashley Howe – Senior Recreation Supervisor, San Rafael, as a source for more
information: Phone 415 485-3343 – Email ashley.howe@cityofsanrafael.org.
Source: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/people-city-staff/

..My Notes, and More about the Marin Bocce Federation, and History
My Notes: “45.000/49.000 € for 4 courts” is roughly, $53,000/$58,000, or $13,250/$14,500 per court, and add
asphalt costs (including delivery) of $4,500/$7,500 for all 4 courts (is the way I understand it). Complete Total
Costs for all 4 courts $57,500/$65,500 or $14,375/$16,375 per court (Does Not Include Exchange Rate $ vs. € ).
Further consideration for the final choice of bocce court top surface, must be studied carefully, and in depth.
Including, to the extent possible, experiencing, and examining the various court surfaces, IN PERSON. Go to
the location where they already exist. Without this rigorous approach, bad choices, and less than ideal results,
as seen at the bocce courts in Torrance, at Columbia Park, might be repeated, only to cost more, in repair, and
replacement.
More about the Marin Bocce Federation
The Marin Bocce Federation is dedicated to promoting the game of bocce to all local citizens in order to enhance their
social and physical well being. The promotion of bocce will be done without regard to race, age or ethnic background
however, a special effort will be made to meet the needs of the physically challenged and older members of the
community. Our mission as a non-profit, public benefit corporation is to provide a low cost activity at the bocce facility
utilizing volunteers and community support. Located at 550 B Street next to the San Rafael Community Center, the Marin
Bocce Federation manages and operates a beautiful, family oriented, 10 court bocce facility (8 outdoor courts) open to the
public 7 days a week. Source & Home Website: http://marinbocce.org/ (MBF photos,below)
History of the Marin Bocce Federation (Source:http://marinbocce.org/history-marin-bocce-federation/)
It was the early 90’s, and local parks were underutilized. A master plan was developed in 1992 to revitalize San Rafael’s
Albert Park with a focus on increasing activity in the park, and involving the community and private sector in the park
development.
In 1993 a committee, spearheaded by Dolly Nave and Dr. Fred Hass, made a pitch for the inclusion of bocce courts in the
park renovation. Hass said he got the bocce bug while watching matches in Martinez, where he observed people laughing
and truly enjoying the game. With the enthusiastic support from a handful of local citizens, Dolly and Fred, and a group of
seven people, drove over to the Martinez courts to observe league play. It was at dinner that evening in Martinez that the
idea to build the courts in San Rafael was set, and the Marin Bocce Federation (MBF) was born.
The group returned to San Rafael, elected officers and a Board of Directors and set out their goals. The Federation agreed
to be responsible for the management and maintenance of the courts and the establishment of bocce leagues. They
launched a fundraising and publicity campaign to educate and gain support of the community.

..(Cont.) History of the Marin Bocce Federation
Dolly and her son, Rich Jr., went to St Louis, MO to meet with the contractor of the local club’s courts, the only synthetic
courts in the U.S. at the time. Traditionally courts were finished with a dusting of ground oyster shell flour, but this
material created lots of dust and required constant rolling and maintenance. Nave was in search of the best possible courts
with the best possible surface material. Players raved about the low maintenance courts, and best of all, the balls rolled
smoothly and accurately. It was decided that a synthetic court surface was the way to go. MBF President, Rene Nogara,
went to Europe to check out bocce facilities and to research companies who produced synthetic surfaces used throughout
Europe.
With support from Mayor Al Boro and the City Council, and with a grant from the city, a beautiful 6-court facility was
planned. Under Dolly’s direction, many generous donations of labor and materials were received and construction began.
In June of 1994, exactly one year, one week and one day from its inception, the Marin Bocce Federation opened the courts
for play. In just three weeks, the night league was completely sold out with 60 teams and 400 players. On a few occasions,
before permanent lights were installed, players drove their cars onto the site and used their headlights on several
occasions to illuminate the courts. In 2000, two more exterior courts were constructed with help and sponsorship
by Ghilotti Construction and Shamrock Materials. These additional courts were needed to accommodate the growing
interest in the sport, and in 2004, morning leagues were started.
“One of the best things about bocce is that it is a family-oriented activity,” said Nogara. “It is easy to learn. I could teach
the game in five minutes. You can have fun from the first time you set foot on the court. Not many other sports can make
that claim.” For Nave, the secret to the Bocce Federation’s success is that it is instantly addicting. “It’s getting the people
to play once. Then they’re hooked.”
“Bocce is a time-honored sport that is also part of the history of Marin County,” said Dr. Hass. “We used to have it years
ago and it was very popular. The beauty of bocce is that you don’t have to be a world-class athlete to compete. Age, sex
and physical considerations aren’t necessarily key factors in who wins or loses the game.”
The interior space of the facility was recently remodeled to include an additional bathroom, a meeting room and a larger
office. Today, 18 years after Marin Bocce opened its doors, the facility has 8 exterior courts, 2 indoor courts, 155 teams
and close to 1200 players. The vision of the MBF’s Founding Fathers has become a reality.
The courts are a continuing success story, and the Marin Bocce Federation has played a big role in bringing life back to
Albert Park, and in helping to restore this valuable community resource. (From their website, MBF photo, below)

Page...33 As a result of a first class bocce venue, with at least (4) professional/tournament style courts, and
the formation of a Bocce Club (“Surf City Bocce”?), Huntington Beach could potentially play host to local,
regional, and United States Bocce Federation (USBF) national bocce tournaments, and Special Olympics...
Official website of the candidacy of Boules Sport at Olympic Games (2024) - http://www.boules-sport.org/uk/
Bocce Venue Wish List: 1) At least, 4 professional/tournament style bocce courts 2) That are virtually
maintainence free 3) With adequate, and efficient lighting, to allow for nighttime play 4) That are handicapped
accessible for all courts 5) That have some sort of roof structure at each end of the courts to provide shade,
and protection from the sun 6) Where there is plenty of free, nearby parking to accommodate tournaments 7)
With permanent court benches/chairs 8) And, nearby covered picnic tables 9) Nearby restrooms that allow for
proper washing of hands 10) With security fence, and, or security cameras to ward off vandalism 11) And,
skateboard stops to discourage/prevent skateboarding damage 12) With Permanent scoreboards for each
court that will allow a score of 15, for championship games 13) With water (bib), and electrical outlets 14)
And, permanent display case for announcements, notices, & schedules 15) Appropriate court signage – see,
next page 16) Nearby, approx. 12’X12’ storage shed 17) Multi-Purpose Water Fountain 18) Anything else I’m
missing???

..
(My nephew & niece – John & Cristina)
(Appropriate Court Signage – Are, Rules of the Game, Correct? See next page 34 *** – Torrance, Columbia Park)
Notes:

..(9.7.17) Comments By Frank Rivera – Vice President, United States Bocce Federation (USBF)
Frank Rivera
Photo Source: http://usbf.us/usbf-board-of-directors.html Contact: mailto:frivera1@comcast.net
Hi John
Wow! You did your homework! I am heartened to see that Huntington Beach is already planning to expand their recreation
facilities to include possibly two courts. That shows they are already open to bocce as a sport.
I quickly read through your presentation (I plan on a more thorough reading later) and found that you covered all possible
bases with two exceptions. Keep in mind, with all the work you already did on your presentation, what I suggest is hardly
necessary, but could possible offer another two reasons for the city to consider 4 to 6 synthetic courts:
1. The city recreation department (or perhaps the bocce club that will come into being) can coordinate with local
schools to form after school bocce competitions. This will offer one more option to help kids have s omething to do
after school. These can either be intramural competitions, where a single school has several teams compete
against each other, or intermural competitions between different schools. There is a middle school in Elk Grove
Village IL that has a 75 student strong bocce club. The link below has an article about the club, The Bambray
Street Bocce Club, starting on page 9. You may not want to include this in your report because the bocce club
meets at the school, but on the other hand, you might stress the opportunity for more schools to start bocce clubs
who meet after school at the city courts. This same edition of the USBF Quarterly has an article on the South Bay
court construction and dedication starting on page 6, and an article on the Pan-American Women’s Games held in
Brazil in 2016 (which suggests that the sky’s the limit if you become dedicated to bocce).
http://usbf.us/uploads/3/5/1/8/35186547/winter_2017.pdf
2. You might include a statement that with artificial surfaces, the courts can possibly host USBF National
Championship Tournaments. The USBF is divided into three sectors; Western, Midwestern and Eastern. The
sectors alternate holding the Nationals, so Huntington Beach will have an opportunity to bid on hosting the
Nationals every three years. Hosting the 5 day long Nationals will bring revenue into the city through hotels,
touring the interesting sites by Nationals players and other incidental revenue (shopping, purchasing meals at
local eateries etc.) Here is a link to the last Nationals held in the Western Sector in June of 2016
http://usbf.us/uploads/3/5/1/8/35186547/2016_nationals.pdf
*** One other point. On the photo of the South Bay bocce rules, I see that they consider a pallino roll invalid if it goes
beyond the foul line on the far side of the court. When the Huntington Beach courts become a reality, you might consider
the USBF rule on throwing the pallino. As long as it doesn’t hit the backboard, it is a valid throw, even if it comes to a stop
within inches of the backboard. It might be important to establish as many USBF rules as possible if you want to host
USBF sanctioned tournaments.
Good luck, good luck, good luck
Frank

9/11/2017 Revised Bocce Courts 4 HB (Huntington Beach)

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