Garry Templar has a very competitive outlook and a long-time sporting involvement.
For the past six seasons he’s been a dedicated senior coach at Romsey Bowling Club, culminating in the club’s first-ever top grade premiership in an unforgettable tension-packed extra-ends Highlands grand final against Kyneton in 2025-2026.
Templar’s now a head coach once again this coming season — at Lancefield Bowling Club.
“I’d let Romsey know after last season’s successful grand final I wouldn’t be coaching them again ….. for quite some years I’ve lived in Lancefield not far from the bowling club and recently decided to play there.
“After the formal part of Lancefield’s annual meeting on June 14 there were some discussions with the club’s leadership, and I had no hesitation in taking the coaching job when it was offered.”
“We’re really pleased Garry has taken on the role of senior coach. He’s a very experienced bowler with strong coaching credentials, and we know our players will benefit with Garry at the helm,” club president Jeff Smith said.
Lancefield is in a rebuilding phase after uncharacteristically finishing on the bottom of the Highlands A-grade ladder last season.
There’s already some inexperienced bowlers in the club, and regular coaching is seen as helping them reach their full potential as well as enjoying the sport.
The club anticipates several newcomers may join up as well.
“Overall, the aim is to be more competitive this season,” Smith said.
“There’s a good, friendly atmosphere at the club and newcomers and experienced bowlers alike will be welcomed,” he added.
The Tigers intend to field three pennant teams, two on Saturday and one midweek.
Painting the interior of the clubhouse and other improvements are planned or underway.
TOP FOUR THE AIM
Templar said his aim as coach was to try to see the club make the top four in division one this season.
Quite some years ago quality bowler Barry Atkins came to live in Lancefield and was the club’s first coach.
He led by example and made the club more successful in pennant competition.
Templar grew up in Romsey and played football and cricket there, before going to Melbourne and pursuing business interests.
He also coached Romsey football and cricket teams, and admits bowls wasn’t a natural transition.
“A mate invited me along to bowls at Essendon, and I got hooked.”
He quickly adapted to the sport and has played for over 25 years, mainly as skipper, and in various tournaments.
Templar moved to live at Lancefield some years ago and had a brief stint with the bowling club, before coaching and playing at Gladstone Park and then Glenroy bowling clubs.
Note: Anyone interested in bowls at Lancefield can gain further information from Jeff Smith on 0447 322 282.