WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – It was a night of camaraderie and friendly competition at the Dante Club in West Springfield.
Teams battled it out during an evening of bocce, a traditional Italian game that has gained popularity in recent years. A series of 5 games kicked off the playoffs Tuesday night, with teams giving their all to come out on top. There are 66 players in this year’s bocce league.
It provided people of all generations with the opportunity to come together and form connections through the love of the game. “You can be 99 years old and you can play with your 22-year-old grandson and 55-year-old son on the same team and that’s what goes on here, which is a joy and we need that today,” said league organizer, Rico Daniele.
Games will be played every Tuesday until May when the final two teams compete in the championships. Looking ahead, there are plans to also expand the sport even further by setting up bocce courts in schools and establishing a women’s league.
Kayleigh Thomas is a digital reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since 2022. Follow Kayleigh on X @kayleighcthomas and view her bio to see more of her work.