Have you heard? Bocce’s the word. A new generation of players is taking on Italian–American clubs and grandfathers everywhere at their own game at an ever increasing rate. It turns out that in addition to the game’s appeal as a relaxing backyard past-time, it also provides a framework for the perfect date. Just ask the young professionals of the city’s own Major League Bocce.

“Bocce is the perfect way to make new friends and meet that someone special,” says Sarah DeLucas, a co-founder of Major League Bocce, the nation’s largest bocce organization. “Bocce provides a great medium for meeting new people. There is a natural flow of conversation deciding whose ball is closer to the pallina and the game can be picked up by people of all abilities. Plus it can be played in your best date outfit – no need for gym clothes.”

DeLucas’s league operates in various cities across the US and boasts at least nine known couples who met playing and ended up tying the knot. If your interest is piqued by the idea of bocce games with other singles and young professionals, check out Major League Bocce’s special brand of bocce this spring at one of four Philly locations:

• Wednesdays in University City at Penn Park
• Thursdays in Northern Liberties on bocce courts at the Piazza
• Thursdays in South Philly at Jefferson Square (GLO bocce)
• Thursdays in Northeast Philly on bocce courts at Cafe Michaelangelo
  

Registration for Major League Bocce’s spring season is currently underway. Drink Philly readers can save $10 on registration with discount code SCORE10.

Teams play every week for 6 weeks. At the end of the season everyone participates in a single elimination tournament culminating in the crowning of a champion team. Bonus: everyone makes the playoffs so you don’t have to be an expert to get started. After games, players head to a nearby sponsor bar to enjoy exclusive discounts on food and Dogfish Head drafts, the League’s official beer sponsor. Unlike other social sports leagues you may have encountered, scoring off the courts is just as important as winning the game.

Photos via Major League Bocce