What can a boccia ramp assistant do?
I · Intermediate · Playing an end · 3 of 4The BC3 ramp operator stays in the box, may not look at the court during an end and moves the ramp, chair or ball only as directed. A sport assistant waits behind the box until asked. Coaches sit by the score table. Nobody may communicate during an end except to request an action or encourage.
How it works
- Ramp operator: in the box, facing away.
- Moves: ramp, chair or ball on direction.
- At release: no touching athlete or pointer.
- Sport assistant: behind the box until asked.
- Coach: seated by the score table.
- Captain: in pairs and teams.
- Communication: only requests and encouragement.
- Outside help: none.
The glossary has the ramp operator, the sport assistant, the coach (boccia), the captain (boccia), the communication (boccia) and the movement on court.
Tricky cases
Can the ramp operator look at the jack?
No, not during an end.
Can the coach call advice mid-end?
No.
Can an athlete say "well played" to a partner?
Yes, after a shot.
Do coach's cards count against the side?
No.
Why the rule exists
The athlete must make every tactical choice. Keeping the operator blind to the court stops them aiming for the athlete.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| BC3 | Ramp operator | 9.2.1 |
| BC1, BC4 foot | Sport assistant | 9.2.2 |
| All | No outside communication | 15.1 |
From the rule book
World Boccia, International Sport Rules 2025-2028 (version 1.2.1, April 2026), rules 9 and 15.1. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Boccia International Sport Rules 2025-2028.