Bowls Canada Boulingrin and Canadian Short Mat Bowls Association Announce Collaborative Path Forward for the Growth of Bowls in Canada

June 2, 2026

Bowls Canada Boulingrin (BCB) and the Canadian Short Mat Bowls Association (CSMBA) are pleased to announce a new collaborative understanding aimed at strengthening and growing the sport of bowls across Canada – from coast to coast to coast.

This understanding reflects a shared commitment between the two organizations to work more closely together in promoting participation, supporting athletes and clubs, and elevating the profile of both lawn bowls and short mat bowls nationally.

At its core, this step signals a spirit of alignment and mutual support – grounded in the idea of “one sport, two formats” and recognizes the opportunity to build a stronger, more unified voice for bowls in Canada.

Importantly, no decisions have been made regarding any formal organizational changes. While the organizations have agreed to explore what closer alignment could look like in the future, any potential next steps would require thorough review, planning, and approval by both organizations’ Boards and memberships.

“This is about building a positive and cooperative relationship for the future of bowls in Canada,” said Britany Gordon, CEO of BCB. “We see real opportunity in working together to grow the sport and better support our communities.”

“Short Mat Bowls continues to grow in Canada, and this collaboration allows us to build on that momentum alongside Bowls Canada Boulingrin,” said David Burrows, President of CSMBA. “We’re focused on what we can achieve together.”

Areas of collaboration will include national promotion efforts, athlete and club development, and coordination around key initiatives, including international events such as the 2028 World Short Mat Bowls Championships in Hamilton, Ontario.

Both organizations remain committed to open communication and transparency as discussions evolve.

For now, this announcement marks an important first step: two organizations choosing to work together in the best interest of the sport and its participants across the country.

For more information, please contact:

For more information, please contact:
Bowls Canada Boulingrin
Britany Gordon, CEO
[email protected]
613-244-0021

Canadian Short Mat Bowls Association
David Burrows, President                                  Ian Howard, Director
[email protected]                               [email protected]
905-639-3546                                                      416-618-0798