Watch the Pallino

Bocce is one of the world’s most popular and enduring sports. Though it is often credited to the Italians who embraced it and brought it to America in the early 1900s as they emigrated to the United States to find a better way of life, the Italians actually modified the game as did the French, Greeks and the English. The game and its many variations is played worldwide in many nations and cultures. The first ever documentation of bocce was in Egypt around 5200 BC. Bocce was played in Palestine and in Asia Minor. The French modified the game and called it "boules".  Bocce was picked up by the Greeks and introduced it to the Romans. The Romans really took to the game. Nowadays everyone plays bocce in Italy - it is their favorite pastime. 

From New York to Boston, Philadelphia to Chicago, St. Louis to California, you locate a Little Italy and you will certainly find a game of bocce being played.  "Watch the Pallino" is a film that documents the community of Toluca, Illinois unique variation of the game. Bocce's friendly camaraderie and strategic element make it a draw for casual and serious players alike. 

Remember bocce is a great sport that can be played anywhere. While drinking a pint of your favorite brew at a local pub or eating a plate of pasta at your favorite restaurant, bocce is a game that you don't need to be Italian to enjoy.