After years of planning and fund raising the newly constructed Bocce courts in Carmichael Park are ready for use! The courts are located in the Carmichael Park panhandle right behind the Italian Cultural Center. Currently there are two courts with plans for additional courts in the future.

A Grand opening is planned over the summer and we hope members of the Society, many of whom live in the Carmichael and surrounding areas, will take advantage of the courts. The Italian Cultural Society will incorporate Bocce events into its cultural events programs down the road as the Italian Center opens up its programming.

Bocce is a favorite Italian pastime and has been played in Italy for 2000 years. The game ranks second to soccer as the Italian national pastime. The name Bocce was coined by the Romans. From Caesar Augustus to George Washington, Bocce has a long history.

Bocce is a unique cultural tradition in the Italian communities, one often handed down from one generation to another. Italian immigrants are credited with bringing the sport to the United States and popularizing it.

Bocce is a big sport in northern California with major Bocce complexes operated by Italian American organizations in many California cities. Many Bocce complexes operate leagues which compete against teams from different cities in playoffs that can lead to national and international tournament titles.

In Sacramento, the East Portal Bocce Club, located in the heart of East Sacramento’s Little Italy neighborhood, sponsors some 60 teams. Future plans for the Carmichael Bocce courts include the establishment of league play.

The Italian community can thank Society member Shirley Simi and her family for being the driving force behind the creation of the new Bocce Courts. Their dedication to the project and the support of the Carmichael Park Foundation got the courts across the finish line. And thanks to all the members of the Italian American and Carmichael community who supported the project.

The courts will be managed by the Carmichael Park District with plans to have the courts ready for reservation play by May 1. Currently the courts are open for play on a first come first serve basis for an hour at a time. For information about use of the courts, free lessons and future leagues contact the park district at info@carmichaelpark.com or visit the bocce ball page on their website at www.carmichaelpark.com/bocce-ball-courts.