The purpose of the game is to roll the bocce, a 4 inch ball weighing about three pounds, as close as possible to the pallino, a 1 inch ball which is rolled down the alley first. The bocce coming closest to the pallino scores. Twelve points constitute a game. Bocce fans claim the game helps improve their bowling, golf and shuffleboard because it has many features of these games in it. There is no age limit for the Bocce players.
Many elderly citizens play the game for relaxation and exercise.
It brings to their minds a reminder of the proud Italian heritage of which they are a part.