The World Series of Bocce: A Celebration of Sport, Family and Community

Jun 25, 2024 293

BY: Francis DiClemente

The World Series of Bocce: A Celebration of Sport, Family and Community is a documentary short that captures the intense competition at the annual World Series of Bocce tournament in Rome, New York, while highlighting the event’s economic, social and community impact.

For one weekend in July, teams from across the U.S. and Canada and thousands of spectators descend on Rome, New York, for the annual World Series of Bocce. Men’s and women’s teams—composed of four players per squad—compete for thousands of dollars in prize money.

But the World Series of Bocce is more than just an annual tournament and social gathering. It is a tradition connecting the past with the present, a celebration of Italian American culture and an event that contributes to the economy of Rome while bolstering civic pride.

The World Series of Bocce: A Celebration of Sport, Family and Community depicts the intense competition of the tournament and highlights the enduring bonds of family, friendship and community.

Through interviews with players, organizers and spectators, viewers are immersed in the passion and skill that define this beloved sport.

The film also celebrates the WSB’s role in bringing together people of diverse backgrounds to revel in the camaraderie of a shared social experience.

This film was made possible by The Russo Brothers Italian American Film Forum production grant. Special thanks to the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), the Russo Brothers and AGBO.

The film is available for viewing on the PBS app and will make its broadcast premiere on July 11 on WCNY, the public broadcasting station in Central New York. Take a look at a 60' Trailer here

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The World Series of Bocce: A Celebration of Sport, Family and Community

Directed By
Francis DiClemente

Produced By
Francis DiClemente and Bill Vinci

Cinematography By
Lafayette Cunningham

Editor and Post-Producer
Mary Kasprzyk

Assistant Editors
Lafayette Cunningham
Francis DiClemente

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