A boccia ramp might seem like a simple piece of kit, but at the competitive level, every detail matters. Creating the APEX ramp has encouraged us to push the boundaries of boccia equipment and create the next generation of boccia ramp.
Boccia: A Sport for Everyone
Boccia is a rapidly growing Paralympic sport, celebrated for its inclusivity. Players with a wide range of disabilities can compete alongside each other, enjoying the strategic depth and social interaction the game offers. For athletes in the BC3 classification, a ramp becomes their essential tool, allowing them to propel the ball onto the court.
The Challenge: Exceeding Expectations
DEMAND has been a leading force in boccia equipment design since 2006. Our previous ramps have been a staple in schools, competitions, and training facilities. However, the competitive landscape is constantly evolving, demanding top-of-the-line equipment. We embarked on a mission to create a ramp that not only met these new standards but surpassed them.
Unveiling the Hidden Complexities
At first glance, a boccia ramp seems straightforward. But delve into the world of professional boccia, and you'll discover a highly regulated environment. Balls come in a variety of sizes and materials, each requiring consistent and precise delivery. Ramps have strict size limitations, demanding clever design solutions to maximize functionality within these restrictions. They need to rotate and tilt smoothly for accurate aiming, while maintaining stability throughout the game. Even the tip of the ramp touching the floor can lead to a foul! The ideal ramp is a delicate balance between stability, manoeuvrability, and tactical advantage.
Fuelling Innovation: User-centred Design
Driven by a deep understanding of the sport and a passion for inclusivity, we began a comprehensive research phase. Our team spent months embedded in the boccia community, interviewing athletes, observing gameplay, and identifying limitations with existing equipment. This user-centred approach fuelled our design process, leading to innovations that address the core needs of boccia players.
The Pillars of Success: Accuracy, Efficiency, and Flexibility
The design focused on three key pillars:
- Accuracy: Even the most skilled athletes require a ramp that consistently delivers the ball precisely. Unstable ramps or jostled balls can spell disaster in a tight competition.
- Efficiency: Time is of the essence in a boccia match. Adjustments to chute extensions need to be quick and effortless, minimizing disruptions during gameplay.
- Flexibility: Athletes require complete control over the angle of adjustment and ball release height. A ramp that offers infinite adjustability allows for diverse tactical strategies.
A Collaboration for Success
Throughout the project, input from boccia athletes at various stages of their careers, along with sports assistants, coaches and referees helped us review and refine the design concepts, ultimately resulting in the newest addition to our range, the accurate, efficient and infinitely adjustable APEX!
DEMAND: A Champion for UK Manufacturing
DEMAND is the only UK manufacturer of boccia equipment, and this project continues our legacy of producing high-quality, locally-made ramps. See the whole range of ramps to suit every athlete in our shop.