Latest Updates and Payment Changes

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes a fresh lineup of exciting events and competitions. If you’re planning to join the summer league or participate in any upcoming activities, please get your entries in as soon as possible. This post covers the latest results from recent events, changes to the payment process, and key deadlines for summer league entries. Staying informed will help you prepare and make the most of the summer season ahead.

Changes in Payment Methods

To simplify and speed up transactions, payments will now be accepted by card only. This means:

• No cash payments will be accepted on-site.

• Online payments can be made to top-up your balance for bowling via your personal website log-in. If you need any help with this information please contact Tom either at the club, on the phone 0121 7092233 or email manager@solihullibc.co.uk

• We will no longer add funds to bowling balances at the bar. All top-ups must be completed through the website.

• You can add credit to your membership card at the bar, but it is only for bar purchases. This credit will be applied to the till system and can be used to buy drinks, food, or snacks.

  
  

This change aims to reduce delays during registration and improve record-keeping accuracy. It also enhances security by minimizing cash handling. If you haven’t used the website to top-up before, now is a good time to get familiar with the process.

For every £25 you add online, we're giving you an extra £5 for free! That's 6 games for the price of 5!

Egham Trophy Result

Our team traveled to Desborough on Sunday to face Spalding Lightning in the semi-final of the National Egham Trophy. The match was intense and closely fought, with emotions running high until the very last ends. While Emily’s rink secured a fantastic win, the rinks led by Ben Harris, Tom Holmes, and Alex Lewis unfortunately slipped to defeats. The overall result came down to the final few ends with the scores level, but our team just couldn’t clinch the crucial ends needed for victory. Despite the narrow loss, their effort this season deserves recognition and praise.

Our team knew the stakes were high, with a place in the National Egham Trophy final on the line. The atmosphere at Desborough was charged with anticipation as both teams brought their best game.

Emily’s rink, Michelle Meadowcroft, James Seville, Malc Follis and Emily, set the tone early with a confident and strategic performance leading all the way through with scores of 4-2 after 5 ends, 9-3 after 9 ends, 15-5 after 14 ends and 19-7 after 18 ends. There 19-10 victory gave our team hope and momentum throughout the match.

Narrow Margins in the Other Rinks

Ben Harris, Tom Holmes, and Alex Lewis each led their rinks with determination, but faced tough opposition. The matches were tightly contested, with several ends decided by just a single shot. Despite their best efforts, these rinks fell short, losing by narrow margins.

Lily Adams, Hannah Smith, Callum Mitchell and Tom Holmes had a tough battle all game trading scores end after end. 4-4 at 6 ends became 10-8 at 12 ends, 15-16 after 16 ends and 17-17 at 18 ends. In the end the teams could not be seperated with the final score 19-19. A fantastic battle from both rinks.

Liz Wooding, Amy Williams, Mark Burdett and Ben Harris trailed 2-8 after 6 ends and 2-13 after 10 ends. they started to build pressure and played some excellent ends to reduce the defecit to 11-14 at 15 ends, and drew level 15-15 after 18 ends. After battling back is was heartbreaking to drop two shots on the last end to lose 16-18, but a great performance from the rink.

Joy Powell, Jon Palmer, Izzie White and Alex Lewis led 9-2 after 6 ends, and 9-8 after 10 ends. but their opponents had the better of the second half. Our players played well, building heads and playing excellent shots, but there opponents always had the answer. 10-17 at 16 ends meant the overall scores across the 4 rinks were level at 53-53.

After 18 ends overall Solihull led 61-57.

After 19 ends the scores were tied 62-62.

After 20 ends it was 64-67.

A big push on the last ends of all matches from both teams meant some excellent bowls under pressure, a tense atmosphere with players from both sides cheering each other on. but there could only be 1 winner.

Unfortunately, our team couldn’t secure the key ends needed to push through to victory. Final score 64-71 to the Spalding Lightning team.

This kind of finish is tough for any team, but it also shows the resilience and fighting spirit of our players. They stayed focused and competitive until the very last bowl was played. The experience gained from such a close match will be invaluable for future competitions.

Although the semi-final result was disappointing, the season as a whole has been a fantastic journey for our team. Their commitment, skill, and teamwork have been impressive throughout the National Egham Trophy campaign. We congratulate every player for their hard work and dedication. The effort shown in this semi-final is a testament to their quality and passion for the sport.

Looking Ahead to the Top Club Semi-Final

Our team now turns their focus to the upcoming Top Club semi-final on Saturday 28th March at Nottingham IBC (7PM). The lessons learned from the Egham Trophy semi-final will help sharpen their approach and strategy.

We wish them the best of luck as they prepare to face Norfolk IBC, tickets are available via the EIBA website, so please support our players if you can.

Summer League Entry Requirements and Deadlines

The summer league includes some new events this season, offering players a chance to compete, improve skills, and enjoy the community spirit. To participate, you must complete your entry by the specified deadline and follow the updated payment rules.

Entry Process

• Register online through the official entry form. Link here.

• Fill out all required information accurately.

• Submit your payment by card to confirm your entry.

  
  

Important Deadlines

• Entry Deadline: 5th May 2026

Entries received after this date will not be accepted to ensure smooth scheduling.

• League Starts: 11th May 2026

All leagues will begin week beginning 11th May, schedules will be produced and displayed on the club notice boards and website as well as being emailed to all captains.

Wessex League Semi Final

Due to the Egham Trophy and the Wessex League having their semi-finals on the same date and time (I dont think they were expecting 1 club to reach the last 4 in both events, such has been our success this year!) The match against Barwell had to be re-arranged.

This semi-final will now take place on Wednesday 25th March at 7pm, with 2 rinks being played at Barwell and 2 rinks here at Solihull.

Please support the team by coming to cheer them on!

Preparing for your next match

To get ready for a league match or upcoming competition, consider these practical steps:

• Training: Set a regular practice schedule to build fitness and skills.

• Equipment: Check your gear, make sure you have everything you need (like your club shirt)

• Team Coordination: Make a plan to discuss strategies and roles, play to your strengths.

• Health: Stay hydrated throughout the game (a packet of sweets will help keep the energy up!)

  
  

Being well-prepared will help you enjoy the competition and perform at your best.