Ramp Boccia: Player Directs the Assistant

A partner boccia game based on the ramp event: one player decides and gives directions, while the assistant, facing away from the court, aims the ramp without looking. Students practice accuracy, clear verbal communication, and empathy for adapted sports.

How to play

1. Tape 6 courts, 10 × 20 ft, each with a throwing line. Each court has two pairs, one with red balls and one with blue, and one ramp per pair (3 min).
2. In each pair, the player sits behind the ramp and the assistant stands next to them with their back to the court: no looking at the target.
3. The player gives directions ("turn left," "higher," "stop") and the assistant moves the ramp and sets a ball at the top; the player pushes it with a hand to release it.
4. The white jack is played first, then the pair whose best ball is farther away always throws next. Each pair throws 3 balls; the pair closest to the jack scores 1 point for each ball closer than the other pair's best ball.
5. Play 4-minute ends and switch player and assistant roles every end (14 min).

Rules

• The assistant never turns to look at the court and never gives advice.
• Only the player decides; the assistant does what they are told.
• Nobody steps onto the court until both pairs have thrown.
• Safety: balls stay on the floor and are never tossed toward another court.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: this is the ideal event; the student takes the player role from their wheelchair.
• Hearing impairment: agree on shoulder taps on the assistant for left, right, and stop.
• Shy students: start as the assistant, who doesn't need to talk, then try directing.

Learning goals

• Give precise verbal directions to adjust a path.
• Judge direction and force to get the ball close to the target.
• Learn how athletes with severe physical disabilities play.

Equipment for a class of 25

• boccia sets: 6
• boccia ramps or rain gutter sections: 12
• rolls of tape: 2

Teacher tip

If you don't have ramps, cut 3-foot sections of plastic rain gutter or prop a large cardboard tube on a chair. Explain that in competition this event is played by athletes who cannot throw by hand.

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