What better way to ensure the future of the great Italian game of Bocce in New Mexico than to teach kids how to play? That was the motivation for John and Cathy Paolino to conduct a four-day Bocce Training Camp in June at Haynes Park in Rio Rancho. It was also a good way to give back to the community that generously allowed free use of the Haynes Park courts for the 2nd Annual Italian Festivals Bocce Tournament last spring. John and Cathy, who were the chief organizers of that tournament, introduced more than 100 enthusiastic young people to the traditional, centuries-old Italian game.

The Bocce Training Camp was part of Rio Rancho's Kamp Rio summer program that offers organized sports and other activities for ages 6-14 throughout the summer months. "It was amazing to see how the kids took to the game and improved over the four day period," commented John. "It was a great opportunity to make new Bocce fans."

Source: Italy in New Mexico