Episode 83 - With Special Guest John Bezear Simon’s away in Canada and apparently can’t make the time difference work… so DJ finds another bloke in Canada who can! In Episode 83 of What a Load of Bowls, DJ catches up with Canadian international John Bezear for a chat about comebacks, World Championship medals and the opportunities bowls can create. John shares his journey from taking up bowls in Canberra with a broken arm to playing for NSW, chasing an Australian spot and eventually moving to Canada. After stepping away from the sport, a phone call brought him back and he went on to win World Championship pairs bronze alongside Ryan Bester in both 2012 and 2023. They discuss what makes that partnership work, John’s experience at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and why he believes the shorter format and shot clock can help bowls reach a wider audience. There’s plenty for club bowlers and coaches too, as John explains his passion for player development and the coaching app he’s developing to track performance, structure practice and support more informed selection decisions. 🎙️ In this episode:• Learning the game in Canberra and finding his feet at Merrylands.• NSW success and the disappointment of missing Australian selection.• Moving to Canada, stepping away and returning to international bowls.• Playing alongside Ryan Bester on the world stage.• Leading under pressure and adapting to the Glasgow conditions.• Coaching, performance data and the challenges of club selection.• The differences between Australian and Canadian bowls.• Big ideas for attracting new people to the sport. An honest conversation about backing yourself, helping others improve and finding your way back to the game. PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY 🏆 The Bowls Academy Unlock Your Bowls Potential. Play With Confidence 👉 https://www.thebowlsacademy.com 🎽 SSA (StarSub Apparel)Australian-made custom apparel for clubs, teams, and events.👉 https://www.starsub.com.au Follow on Instagram: @starsubapparel 🏟️ MakMax AustraliaThe leaders in architectural shade and canopy structures — including iconic bowling club canopies across Australia.👉 https://www.makmax.com.au Bowling Canopies: https://www.makmax.com.au/projects/bowling-club-canopies 🚗 Newcastle Car & Truck RentalLocally owned and operated, providing affordable and reliable vehicle hire for individuals and businesses.👉 https://www.newcastlecarrental.com.au 🏛️DACCA Architecture The experts when its comes to club renovations, re-fresh and new builds - Speak to Tony and the team 👉🏼 https://daccaarchitecture.com.au/ 📧 CONNECT WITH US Got a question, topic idea, or want to get involved in the show? We’d love to hear from you! 📩 Simon Lyttle – [email protected] 📩 DJ – [email protected] Explore our full range of coaching content, blogs, and gear:🌐 https://www.thebowlsacademy.com 🛒 https://shop.thebowlsacademy.com 💬 HELP US GROW THE SHOW! If you enjoy What a Load of Bowls:⭐ Rate and review us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts📢 Share the episode with your teammates and bowling friends💌 Send us an email or tag us with your feedback — we might read it on the next episode!

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