John Black has been selected for the second time to represent NSW in the Returned Services League (RSL) lawn bowls competition after performing successfully at the selection tournament held in Maitland on November 12 and 13.

John is a member of the Wingham RSL sub branch, having had a six year career in the Australian Navy. This membership qualified John to compete in the tournament which specifies that bowlers must be a member of an RSL sub branch.

John has only been bowling for six years. He originally played indoor bowls, but after competing in an indoor vs outdoor bowls day he decided to switch and joined Wingham Bowling Club. From then his passion grew.

Under the mentorship of Milton Sky, John learned and honed his skills, taking part in social games and tournaments.

John competed in the State trials in Maitland which allows teams to rotate their team members around in three matches to find where each player fits best. From 64 players, John was part of the 28 who were chosen to be part of the representative team.

“I was very excited when I received the official letter of acceptance into the state team and also asked to manage. I’m looking forward to competing,” John said.

Accompanied by his wife Margaret, John will head to Tweed Heads for the start of play on December 27 to compete for the State.

The tournament was originally planned to take place in Queensland, but after the devastating floods was moved south of the border to secure a first-rate bowling green.

“Although the competition is serious there is great camaraderie and socialising. I like getting together with other service personnel and playing for my state is a great honour.”

Based on John’s performance he has also been selected into the national bowls team which starts play on January 2 at the same venue

Margaret also enjoys the social aspect of the competitions and the chance to catch up with other wives who are attending the tournament.

John is looking for sponsors to assist in covering the costs of the trip. Although his bowls uniform has been supplied, he will need to raise his own funds for travel, accommodation and food. People can contact John on 6553 0813 or PO Box 173 Wingham if they would like to offer sponsorship.