Entries are being accepted for the Second Annual Murphys Homecoming Bocce Ball Tournament to be held Saturday, July 15 from 6 to 9 p.m. as part of the Murphys Homecoming celebration

The tournament will feature 20 two-person teams competing for prizes and bragging rights.  Entry fee is $50 per team with all proceeds going to help the Murphys Community Club maintain and improve the courts.  Last year’s winners Joe and Laurie Bauer will be on hand to defend their championship.

“We are so appreciative that the club has created these wonderful courts,” states Jan Schulz, who is organizing the tournament.  “We want to raise some money to support them in their work.  It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

The tournament will be played according to “social” bocce rules on the two regulation courts.  There will be two flights, 6 and 7 p.m. with the finals scheduled to start at 8 p.m.  Entrants must register by July 14.  Entry forms are available from Schulz at The Spice Tin or by calling 728-3753.

“This year we are including business sponsored teams,” says Shulz.  “We have already signed up Grounds, the Murphys Hotel and The Spice Tin.  We will also have a food truck and a no host beer and wine bar to provide sustenance.”

The event is an outgrowth of the activities of a group that calls itself the Bocce Buddies.  They get together every Monday evening to engage in spirited competition and to enjoy tasty snacks and a beverage of choice.  The group also has a Wednesday daytime session, but without the partying.  Schulz is the recognized Murphys Bocce Commissioner and encourages others to come and join them.

“There are so many wonderful things to do in Murphys,” says Schulz.  “We are truly blessed to live in this community.  The Bocce Buddies is a great example of the fun we have in this beautiful area.”

The tournament is just one facet of the rejuvenated and expanded Murphys Homecoming.  Among the other attractions to be held on July 15 will be a Calaveras Community Band concert, the Calaveras Youth Mentoring Foundation’s duck races, the Old Timers Luncheon, a five mile run/walk competition, and a variety of other family oriented games and activities including a water slide and dunk tank.  There is no admission charge.

Murphys Community Park is located on Algiers St. in historic downtown Murphys.  Membership in the Murphys Community Club is open to everyone and contributions are tax deductible.  For further information call 209-728-8093.