Site News
Topic: *Industry News* 2015 - 2024

****NOTICE: 2021 CANCELLED****

Players, fans, exhibitors, and buyers - we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the 2021 Super Billiards Expo. While the current covid climate is rapidly improving, we simply do not feel it would be prudent to attempt to hold an event of this magnitude at this time. Rather than host a capacity-restricted event or attempt to reschedule a few more months out, we have already begun a plan for an even bigger and better 2022. Based on current progress, we feel this will allow ample time for anyone who wishes to receive a vaccination to do so, and for the safety to gather in large numbers to return.

We are already looking forward to seeing you all in 2022 during the week of April 18-24th. Our tentative plan is to have an entire week of Super Billiards Expo, so that we can host the covid-delayed TAP Nationals as well! The 2022 Super Billiards Expo will be home to several back-to-back massive billiards events coupled with nightly Turbo events and multiple Pro Events at the Oaks Convention Center.

This message was posted to our homepage and Facebook profile on April 15th. Please stay tuned to these outlets for any relevant updates.

If you are a player in our Players Championship Series of events, your entry will be carried over to new dates; if you cannot attend these new dates, you can visit this page and request a refund. Note that you can wait and do this later as well, in case we need to change the dates again – which unfortunately is a reality in these uncertain times. All refunds will be processed within 30 days of the close of the next Super Billiards Expo. We will be making a raise to the entry fee for all Amateur Events on June 1, 2021 - but as long as you are already enrolled, and stay enrolled, this will not affect you. If you cancel your entry and re-enroll after that date, you will encounter the increased entry fee.

Competitors in the TAP Rally in the Valley Event, remember this Event will be TAP Nationals and Rally in the Valley combined for just 2022! Your Operators will receive updates from the National office as to how these changes affect you.

We will post a follow-up message on October 15 with further details or changes.

Thanks again for your patience and understanding. We hope everyone is healthy and safe and look forward to seeing you all soon!

Allen Hopkins
Allen Hopkins Productions

VAN BOENING CONFIRMED FOR MASTERS, THORPE & WOODWARD LINE-UP FOR USA AT WORLD CUP

Skyler Woodward and Billy Thorpe will represent Team USA at this year’s World Cup of Pool, while Woodward and Shane van Boening have both been confirmed for the World Pool Masters.

Two-time Mosconi Cup MVP Woodward will be joined for the first time at the World Cup of Pool by Thorpe, who has been a Mosconi Cup team-mate of Woodward every year since 2017. The pair are close off the table and teamed up on it for a memorable 5-1 doubles win over Niels Feijen and Alexander Kazakis at the 2019 Mosconi Cup, a result which was the start of a run of momentum which took USA from trailing 5-3 to eventually winning a second successive Cup.

The World Cup of Pool takes place at Stadium MK, Milton Keynes, this May 9-14 and once that event has completed, Woodward will travel to Gibraltar for the World Pool Masters, which takes place from May 22-25.

Shane van Boening will also play the Masters as the South Dakota Kid looks for a third title having previously won the event in 2014 and 2015. Justin Bergman declined an invitation to enter the World Pool Masters.

Van Boening, Thorpe and Woodward will all then play in the World Pool Championship in Milton Keynes, England, from June 6-10, where Chris Robinson and Corey Deuel will also compete, meaning all five members of the 2020 Team USA will participate, as will Tyler Styer, a Mosconi Cup winner in 2018 and 2019.

All three events will be broadcast live on Sky Sports and on DAZN in USA. Further players to participate in each event will be announced over the coming weeks.

Already confirmed for the World Cup of Pool are defending champions Austria (Albin Ouschan & Mario He), hosts Great Britain A (Jayson Shaw & Chris Melling) and three-time winners Philippines (Jeff De Luna & Roberto Gomez). A full list of teams confirmed so far can be found at worldcupofpool.com.

David Alcaide will defend his World Pool Masters title in Gibraltar, with World Champion Fedor Gorst and Mosconi Cup MVP Jayson Shaw among the other players invited.

For all the latest news and announcements follow Matchroom Pool on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

RILEYS SPORTS BARS

Re-opening - 17th May at Midday

Remember those days when you could meet your friends for a game of pool, snooker or darts at Rileys? We miss those days (A LOT), but mainly, we miss YOU.
We are ready to restart all the fun and welcome you back in just a few weeks. Make sure you get your table booked now to avoid disappointment!

We can't wait to see you.

Team Rileys    

EAG ONLINE IS NOW OPEN

COME AND JOIN US

Since 10.30 this morning, hundreds of visitors having been exploring EAG's new virtual exhibition.

• Visit exhibitor stands
• Attend seminars
• Network and message colleagues in the BACTA Lounge.

Pop in and take a look. It's FREE and takes just seconds to register and enter.

BARRY HEARN OBE STEPS ASIDE AS EDDIE HEARN BECOMES MATCHROOM SPORT GROUP CHAIRMAN

Eddie Hearn will become Chairman of the Matchroom Sport Group of Companies as Barry Hearn OBE steps aside after almost 40 years to become President of the Group in an advisory role, dealing primarily with event strategy and global development.

Eddie will become Chairman of the Group of Companies and Chairman of Matchroom Sport, Professional Darts Corporation, Matchroom Boxing, Matchroom Boxing USA, Matchroom Media and the PGA EuroPro Tour.

Also, in the group, Steve Dawson will take over from Barry as Chairman of World Snooker after this year’s World Snooker Championship. Matthew Porter will become Chairman of Matchroom Multi Sport and Katie Hearn CEO of Matchroom Media.

Hearn founded the sports promotions company back in 1982, enjoying huge success with Snooker before moving into Boxing, Darts, Pool and Tenpin Bowling amongst more than a dozen different sports.

Through the 1990s Hearn turned several niche sports into major TV attractions with a succession of innovative ideas. His acquisition of a majority shareholding in the PDC in 2001 and World Snooker in 2010 saw him appointed Chairman as both companies went from strength to strength.

Matchroom supplies a wide range of sports programming to broadcasters worldwide, producing over 3,000 hours of action annually across over 600 event days in addition to original documentaries and shoulder programming for all platforms.

Following several years in the sponsorship and event management industry, Eddie Hearn joined Matchroom Sport in 2004, he assumed the role of Chief Executive of the PGA EuroPro Tour and subsequently headed up Matchroom Sport’s rapidly expanding poker and online gaming operations. With the swift growth of the company in recent years Eddie has assumed the role of Group Managing Director and will now become Group Chairman.

Eddie’s most notable public face is as the head of Matchroom’s Boxing division, promoting a stable he has grown, and which is littered with World Champions and Olympic gold medallists.

Under Eddie’s leadership, Matchroom Boxing has returned to the forefront of the sport around the world. In 2018 he agreed a historic $1billion deal with live streaming platform DAZN to stage 16 fights a year across America under Matchroom Boxing USA.

Barry Hearn OBE said: “It has been a huge honour to have worked with some of the greatest sports people on the planet across the last 40 years and enjoyed so many wonderful experiences across our spectrum of events in that time, from snooker’s glory days of the 1980s to record-breaking boxing shows and the incredible growth of professional darts, as we have created opportunities for thousands of sportsmen and women during that time.

“Great challenges have been met, but none more so than the Covid pandemic. I have been determined to stay in charge until this disaster passed and now there is light at the end of the tunnel and I believe it is the right time to pass control of Matchroom to my son Eddie and the brilliant teams we have assembled across all our activities.

“I shall continue to be available to all Matchroom companies as non-executive President, an advisory role concentrating on group strategy and global expansion, but Eddie will be elevated to Group Chairman with overall responsibility for the entire group.

“I could not be prouder of the Matchroom Group of Companies and the outstanding teams that operate in a highly competitive marketplace. Matchroom has grown from two employees operating in an office under a snooker hall in Romford in 1982, to the global powerhouse it is today due to the efforts and performances of all our staff, contractors, broadcasters, and partners.

“I know the company is in good hands with Eddie at the helm and with my daughter Katie heading up Matchroom Media, Matt Porter at the PDC, Frank Smith at Matchroom Boxing, Emily Frazer at Matchroom Multi Sport, Steve Dawson my Chief Executive for over 30 years and Dan Godding at the PGA EuroPro Tour, along with all their teams.

“Now is the time to give all Matchroom employees the opportunity to take this great British company to the next level and beyond.”

Eddie Hearn commented: “Anyone that knows me is well aware of what Matchroom means to me and our family. It has a legacy that spans 40 years from a small office under a snooker hall in Romford to a global powerhouse of sports entertainment. My father has dedicated his life to the company and since I joined in 2004 I have done the same. Now a greater responsibility falls on my shoulders and I am very proud to continue his great work and lead the business and the incredible team that we have built at Matchroom. We have seen astounding growth in the last ten years but we have only just begun. I look forward to continuously evolving and continuing the global growth of this astonishing family business.”

MATCHROOM ACQUIRES LOOP

Matchroom is delighted to announce the acquisition of Loop Streaming and Productions Limited, the live streaming and production specialists, with the company becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Matchroom Media Limited.

Loop have played an integral part already at Matchroom through the years working across an array of sports producing streams for both Matchroom's OTT platform Matchroom.Live, Social Channels and Broadcasters around the globe.

Matchroom Media was formed earlier this year utilising over 40 years of experience in producing and globally distributing live sporting events and is headed up by Director of Programming and Chief Executive Katie Hearn with the division home to production of live events, original documentaries and shoulder programming for all broadcast platforms.

Loop have led the way in pioneering in the latest live production technology; combining cutting edge technology, innovative workflow and strategic multi-skilled staff, with traditional broadcasting techniques and an eagerness to push boundaries in sport production that has ensured high-quality shows for fans all over the world.

The acquisition will take Matchroom's vast experience and Loop's world leading live production innovations to new levels delivering content for some of Matchroom's pillar stones including Boxing, PDC Darts, Matchroom Pool, World Snooker Tour and a host of Matchroom Multi Sport events. Recent productions from Loop have included WST Home Nations and European Series broadcast coverage, all Matchroom Boxing’s Fight Week Activity, Matchroom Multi Sport’s Championship League Pool and the Professional Darts Corporation’s Super Series.

Nick Oldfield, current Head of Production at Loop will become Managing Director: “Katie and Matchroom’s plans to grow its in-house production arm is very exciting. Loop prides itself on its innovative, aggressive and streamlined production workflows. Couple this with Matchroom’s ever growing array of new live OTT and broadcast events, makes for a refreshing move in the industry. Myself and rest of the team can’t wait to get started!”

Katie Hearn: “After many years working alongside Loop, we’re delighted that they will now be a part of the Matchroom Group and look forward to joining forces to grow our production services. We have always been impressed by their progressive approach to producing quality live productions for both OTT and linear platforms and are excited to push on together with more broadcasts.”

Snooker's Final Night Virtually Sold Out! Tickets Available For Other Sessions At Betfred World Championship

Tickets for the concluding session of the Betfred World Championship final at the Crucible Theatre have virtually sold out as Sheffield stages a successful return of fans to indoor sporting events.

The concluding session on May 3rd will see the famous trophy presented at snooker’s biggest tournament. The best players on the planet are battling for the title including Ronnie O’Sullivan, Judd Trump, Neil Robertson, Mark Selby and John Higgins.

Under the Government-led Events Research Programme, the Betfred World Championship is the first indoor sporting event in the UK to welcome back fans in 2021.

Since the event began on April 17th, crowds have enjoyed the unique Crucible atmosphere, while following a set of protocols which includes showing a negative Covid-19 test before entry and observing a code of conduct.

The potential capacity started at 33% for the first round and rises to 100% for the final on May 2nd and 3rd. Tickets for the afternoon and evening sessions on Sunday May 2nd are still available, as well as the afternoon session on Monday May 3rd.

A WST spokesman said: “It has been a fantastic event so far and amazing to see fans returning to live sport. We urge anyone interested in coming to read the information carefully and consider taking this chance to see one of the world’s great sporting events in a globally famous venue. Usually tickets sell out a year in advance so this is a unique opportunity to be there and experience the extraordinary atmosphere.

“To have a full house for the final night will be a historic occasion and we are proud to be part of the Events Research Programme which will help the whole country move forward through scientific data. Now that the last night has sold out we expect all sessions earlier in the event to sell quickly, so fans should move fast.”

All information for fans is available at ww.wst.tv/tickets, and tickets can be booked at www.cruciblesnooker.com or by calling call 0844 65 65 147 (calls to this number cost from 5p per minute from a BT landline plus your phone company’s access charge, other landline networks and mobile providers may vary).

PBIA's Jerry Briesath Instructor of the Year

Call for Nominations

Superior, Colo. - May 5, 2021 - The Billiard Congress of America (BCA) along with the Professional Billiard Instructors Association (PBIA) announce a call for nominations for this year's PBIA's Jerry Briesath Instructor of the Year.

The PBIA's Jerry Briesath Instructor of the Year award is given to a PBIA instructor who has made exceptional contributions to the goals of the organization. In your nominations, please describe why you feel your nominee should be considered. Some of the qualities and activities you may want to include are providing extensive individual or group lessons; using new media, social media or other on-line tools to promote billiard instruction; developing new teaching techniques; working with junior players; volunteering in instruction-related activities; authoring instructional books, videos, or periodical articles; and improving PBIA programs, especially to improve the benefits it offers to members.

The first recipient of the award was Jerry Briesath himself in recognition of his many years of innovative instruction and his role in founding the PBIA.

To nominate a PBIA instructor, please fill out the nomination form in this link.

Past recipients of the PBIA's Jerry Briesath Instructor of Year award include:

2017 - Jerry Briesath
2018 - Randy Goettlicher
2019 - Scott Lee
2020 - Roy Pastor

The nomination form for the PBIA's Jerry Briesath Instructor of the Year must be completed by 5:00 p.m. MDT, Monday, May 31, 2021, in order for your nominee to be considered by the PBIA Honors Committee.

Any questions about the completed forms should be returned to Shane Tyree, BCA membership manager, at shane@bca-pool.com or via fax at 303-243-5075.

About Billiard Congress of America

Founded in 1948, the Billiard Congress of America is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to growing a united, prosperous and highly regarded billiard industry through BCA leadership. The BCA seeks to enhance the success of its members and promote the game of billiards though educational, marketing and promotional efforts, annual industry trade shows, tournaments and other programs designed to encourage billiards as a lifestyle and make pool everybody's game. For more information, visit BCA-Pool.com or call 303.243.5070.

About Professional Billiard Instructors Association

The PBIA (formerly the BCA Instructor Program, established in 1992) is the largest international organization of professional billiard instructors. Since it's founding, the PBIA has improved it leadership position by growing cue sports through professional instruction, development of training products, contributing instructional articles to industry publications, participating in educational workshops and seminars, acting as certified referees or league officials, and directing some of the most notable billiard tournaments throughout the country. The PBIA's mission is to provide quality billiard instruction to the general public, as well as offer training and certification programs for individuals wishing to become qualified billiard instructors. For more information, visit PlayBetterBilliards.com or call 303.243.5070.

2021 BCA Home and Leisure Expo Postponed
Virtual Event Considered For Late Summer 2021

Superior, Colo., May 10, 2021 – The Billiard Congress of America today announced that the annual exposition that celebrates the business of billiards and home recreation is postponed until the summer of 2022 due to the ongoing and unexpected challenges the coronavirus pandemic has placed on businesses in the United States.

The BCA Expo, slated for July 28-30, 2021, will return June 22-24, 2022 at the South Point Hotel, Casino and Convention Center Las Vegas.

“While there have been some positive developments in the fight against this pandemic, it is still disrupting the day-to-day operations of most companies in our industry,” said Billiard Congress of America Board Chairman Ivan Lee. “Challenges including limited ability to travel internationally and unprecedented disruption in global supply chains has led the board to the unanimous decision to postpone the on-site event until the summer of 2022. We are proactively discussing possibilities relative to hosting another virtual concept and the board will make a decision on a 2021 virtual event in the near future. At this point, our first priority is to inform the industry of the postponement so our members can plan accordingly.”

“Since the early days of the pandemic, we have seen our industry meet the challenges with it’s typical ‘bring it on’ mentality,” said BCA CEO Rob Johnson. “And, although many in our industry have done well as billiard and home recreation sales have been reported to be very strong, there are also many individuals who have been very negatively impacted by this pandemic – from the pandemic itself to the impact it has had on their businesses. The board has continuously met and monitored the situation and has made the correct decision to postpone the 2021 event. We will now roll up our sleeves and evaluate, with direct input from our exhibitors and their buyers, whether a virtual event is in the best interests of the industry. As I said last year, we eagerly look forward to the time when we can all get together in person to do business, renew relationships and make new connections via the BCA Expo.”

Anyone who has already booked a room for the annual BCA Expo at South Point MUST cancel their reservation by calling the hotel at 702-797-8901.

The postponement of the 2021 BCA Billiard and Home Leisure Expo does not affect the Billiard Education Foundation Junior National Championships, which are still taking place July 27 – 31, at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

About Billiard Congress of America

Founded in 1948, the Billiard Congress of America is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to growing a united, prosperous and highly regarded billiard industry through BCA leadership. The BCA seeks to enhance the success of its members and promote the game of billiards though educational, marketing and promotional efforts, annual industry trade shows, tournaments and other programs designed to encourage billiards as a lifestyle and make pool everybody's game. For more information, visit BCA-Pool.com or call 303.243.5070.

Snooker Heads To New Territory With Turkish Masters

The World Snooker Tour will stage an event in Turkey for the first time next season when the Turkish Masters takes place in the beautiful city of Antalya.

The provisional dates of the tournament are September 27 to October 3 and WST will closely monitor all guidelines on travel and Covid safety, working with governments in the UK and overseas.

The world ranking event will see 64 players heading to Turkey to compete for total prize money of £500,000.

Antalya is renowned as one of Europe’s outstanding destinations, known for its culture, history and ideal location on the Mediterranean coast.

WST has agreed a four-year deal with the Turkish Billiards Federation and Big Break Promotions to stage the Turkish Masters every season until at least 2024/2025. Overall prize money will increase each year.

A qualifying round will be staged in August with players needing to win one match to make it to the final stages. Two Turkish wild cards will also be handed places in the main event in Antalya. The tournament will be televised by a range of broadcasters worldwide including Eurosport and Matchroom Live.

WST Chairman Steve Dawson said: “We are thrilled to continue snooker’s international expansion by staging a world ranking event in Turkey for the first time. Over the past decade we have made dramatic progress in becoming a truly global sport, and to enter a brand new territory is a further step on that journey.

“We have tracked the growth in interest in snooker in Turkey in terms of television viewing figures and digital audience. This new event will provide a focal point for our sport in the region and it will help us to develop our strategy of building foundations across Europe.

“We are particularly excited to stage this event in Antalya because of the status of the city as an outstanding tourism destination. We have no doubt that the world’s leading players will be delighted with the chance to visit this stunning location while competing for a prestigious title and significant prize money, particularly given the challenges they have faced over the past year.

“We look forward to working with our new partners in Turkey on this fantastic project. To stage a major sporting event in Antalya will help develop the profile of the city.”

WPBSA Chairman Jason Ferguson said: “Congratulations to Ersan Ercan, President of the Turkish Billiard Federation, his hard working team, and local promoter Tuğba İrten for everything they have done to bring the Turkish Masters to the forefront of snooker’s global calendar. We have no doubt it will become one of the most popular events and destinations on our circuit.”

Ersan Ercan, President of the Turkish Billiard Federation, added: “I would like to say a sincere thank you to WST for giving us the opportunity to welcome snooker to Turkey for the first time in our history.

“We are very excited and work has already begun to make this event one of the best on the calendar. I can assure those who attend of one thing, and that is they will fall in love with Antalya.”

J. Pechauer Custom Cues Continues Partnership
With the BEF Junior National Championships
    
Superior, Colo., April 30, 2021 – The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) today announced J. Pechauer Custom Cues has again agreed to partner with the BEF Junior National Championships by donating two handmade custom cues (combined MSRP value $2,650) for the BEF players’ annual fundraiser. Additionally, with two cues means we'll have two winners!

“J. Pechauer has been a tremendous supporter of junior pool players for a long time,” said Shane Tyree, BEF associate director. “We are thrilled to have them partner with the Junior National Championships again this year and are excited that they continue to donate cues that help provide junior pool players financial assistance in route to the only event where players can qualify for the 2021 WPA World Junior Championships being held in the United States this September.”

Every player signed up for the BEF Junior National Championships can initially receive 100 tickets for the J. Pechauer Custom Cue Fundraiser upon request. Tickets can then be sold with a requested $10 donation. The player is then permitted to keep $9 and the remaining $1 will go towards the Billiard Education Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit association.

To requests tickets to help offset your player’s travel expenses for this year’s BEF Junior National Championships, please contact Carol LaRatta at carol@billiardeducation.org.

This year’s event will feature an “open” registration for any junior competitor wanting to compete in the country’s BEF National Junior Pool Championship and will take place at the South Point, Hotel, Casino and Convention Center in Las Vegas, July 27 – 31.

This year, the BEF Junior National Championships will have three categories in the 9-Ball division, presented by Iwan Simonis for boys and girls. The categories include: 14&U* (cannot turn 15 in 2021); 16&U* (cannot turn 17 in 2021); and, 18&U (cannot turn 19 in 2021). *Divisions are based on minimum field or players will participate in the open divisions.

Allocations for the prestigious 2021 Predator World Junior Pool Championship, September 9 – 11, at the Rio in Las Vegas, will be provided to the top three finishers in the boys open 18&U 9-Ball division, the top five finishers in the boys 16&U 9-Ball division, and in the girls open 18&U 9-Ball division.

This year’s BEF Junior National Championship will include two new events: a 21&U 10-Ball National Championship (min. age 18), and an 18&U Junior National 8-Ball Championship (this event is sold out, but if you are interested, please sign up on the waitlist when registering for the other events). Both of these new events will feature an open field of male and female competitors.

Due to overwhelming interest in both the 8-Ball and 10-Ball events we are increasing the size of the field to 32 players for the 10-Ball event and 48 players for the 8-Ball event.

Please register today as there are only 20 days left to ensure you receive this year’s free 2021 Ultimate Team Gear jersey and Predator pool glove. Registration for this year’s event will be open until June 1, 2021. No late or onsite registrations will be accepted.

Please visit the Billiard Education Foundation’s website at BilliardEducation.org to register.

To register for this year's events please visit BilliardEducation.org or use one of the following links below:

Register for 2021 Junior National 9-Ball Championships presented by Iwan Simonis
Register for 2021 Junior National 8-Ball Championships
Register for 2021 22&U National 10-Ball Championships

Registration for this year’s event will be open until June 1, 2021. No late or onsite registrations will be accepted.

About Billiard Education Foundation
The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) was formed in 1993 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity committed to promoting a lifelong love of pool and building the next generation of players through youth programs and academic scholarships. The BEF also sanctions Junior State Championships, produces the annual BEF Junior National 9-Ball Championships and qualifies young players each year for the WPA World Junior Championships. Visit BilliardEducation.org to learn more about junior programs in your area.
Billiard Education Foundation | 303.243.5070 | BilliardEducation.org
Billiard Congress of America | 500 Discovery Parkway, Suite 125, Superior, CO 80027

DRAW MADE FOR WORLD POOL MASTERS

The draw for the World Pool Masters has been made, with defending champion David Alcaide set to begin his defence against either Billy Thorpe or Skyler Woodward in the event, which runs from May 22-25 at Europa Point Sports Complex, Gibraltar.

The all-American clash between Thorpe and Woodward was the standout match from the preliminary round draw, and the pair, currently representing USA in the World Cup of Pool, know the defending champion lies in wait in the last 16.

Alcaide and the top 7 players on the Matchroom Pool World Ranking were seeded through to the last 16, while the remaining 16 players in the field will battle it out in the preliminary round.

Other fixtures include Women’s World Champion Kelly Fisher against Justin Sajich, with the winner set to face Alex Kazakis in the last 16. World Champion Fedor Gorst will face either Shane van Boening or debutant Jakub Koniar of Slovakia.

Albanian Masters rookie Max Lechner will meet either Mieszko Fortunski or Kristina Ktach, while Mosconi Cup MVP Jayson Shaw will face wither Niels Feijen or Jeffrey De Luna.

The World Pool Masters begins on Saturday, May 22 and will be broadcast globally, including on Sky Sports, DAZN and Matchroom.Live. All matches are race to 7, winner breaks, except the final, which will be a race to 9.

Alcaide won the 2019 Masters in dramatic fashion with a memorable up-table bank to make the winning 9 at hill-hill against Kazakis, who he could meet in this year’s quarter-finals.

The World Pool Masters marks the return of spectators to Matchroom Pool Series events. Tickets are available exclusive to residents of Gibraltar via BuyTickets.gi. The full match schedule can be found at MatchroomPool.com.

For all the latest news and announcements follow Matchroom Pool on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

WORLD POOL MASTERS DRAW

LAST 16 MATCHES

David Alcaide vs. Billy Thorpe/Skyler Woodward
Alexander Kazakis vs. Kelly Fisher/Justin Sajich

Naoyuki Oi vs. Eklent Kaci/Petri Makkonen
Jayson Shaw vs. Niels Feijen/Jeffrey De Luna

Fedor Gorst vs. Shane van Boening/Jakub Koniar
Max Lechner vs. Mieszko Fortunksi/Kristina Ktach

Joshua Filler vs. Chris Melling/Sanjin Pehlivanovic
Albin Ouschan vs. Denis Grabe/Roberto Gomez

DAFABET TO TITLE SPONSOR WORLD POOL MASTERS

Dafabet will title sponsor this year’s World Pool Masters, which will take place at Europa Sports Park, Gibraltar from May 22-25, live on Sky Sports.

Dafabet title sponsored pool’s biggest invitational event in 2017 and again in 2019, the last time the Masters was staged. David Alcaide won a dramatic final that year, banking the 9-ball to lift the title in front a jubilant crown.

This year’s Dafabet World Pool Masters again welcomes the crème de la crème of global talent to Gibraltar, with the likes of World Champion Fedor Gorst, Mosconi Cup MVP Jayson Shaw and Championship League Pool winner Albin Ouschan all hoping to deny Alcaide a third Masters title.

The Dafabet World Pool Masters will be broadcast live around the world including on Sky Sports, DAZN and Matchroom.Live.

Emily Frazer, Managing Director of Matchroom Multi Sport, said: “We are thrilled to have Dafabet on board again for the World Pool Masters. We always enjoy working with the team and their support of the event helps us to continue to push boundaries and take pool to every corner of the globe.

“We’re excited for the Dafabet World Pool Masters to return to global TV audiences and a digital audience of millions following the action across our social media platforms.”

John Cruces, Head of Sponsorships at Dafabet added: “We’re very happy to be the title sponsors of this year’s tournament. It’s the third time we’ve sponsored the event and we’ve always been happy with the coverage we’ve received. A lot of credit has to be given to the Matchroom team for being able to ensure the tournament takes place safely. We wish all the players the best of luck.”

The Dafabet World Pool Masters carries a $100,000 prize fund as 24 of the world’s best players battle it out to take home one of the longest-running international titles in the sport. The tournament will begin at 6.30pm local time on Saturday, May 22 and continues for four days until a champion is crowned on the evening of Tuesday, May 25.

For all the latest news and announcements follow Matchroom Pool on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

British Open Returns To Snooker Calendar

The British Open will return to the World Snooker Tour for the first time in 17 years when it takes place in August.

It will be the second world ranking event of the 2021/22 season and will run from August 16 to 22. All 128 tour players will compete in the event, with further details including the host venue and broadcasters to be announced in due course.

The British Open was ever present on the calendar from 1985 to 2004. Brighton was the host city in 2004 when John Higgins beat Stephen Maguire in the final.

As it stands there are 19 events scheduled on the calendar for the 2021/22 season, with discussions ongoing for several other potential tournaments.

WST Chairman Steve Dawson said: “We continue to work towards building a full calendar for the 2021/22 season and the schedule is gradually taking shape.

“We are delighted to bring back the British Open which has a fantastic history and has been won by many of the greats including Steve Davis, Jimmy White, Stephen Hendry, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Mark Williams, Paul Hunter and John Higgins.

“Planning for the tournament is now in progress with the intention to restore its position as a prestigious event on the calendar.”

PREDATOR TO PROVIDE OFFICIAL TABLE OF THE WORLD POOL CHAMPIONSHIP

Matchroom Multi Sport is pleased to announce that Predator Group will provide the Official Table of the World Pool Championship, which returns this June 6-10 at Marshall Arena, England, live on Sky Sports.

Predator Group have been a proud partner of Matchroom Pool Series events for 20 years and recently title sponsored the successful first Championship League Pool. They will now launch their brand new table at this year’s World Pool Championship, promising a world-class table for the biggest event in pool.

The Predator team have worked tirelessly with some of the world’s best professional players to design a table which delivers the ultimate pool performance. Its double density carbon-steel provide the most powerful frame and legs. Re-machined pure Brazilian slate is optimised for a seamless roll and a new cushion rail design ensure a consistent response.

Predator’s Stealth Design – an ultra-black matte surface finish – give the table a sleek and modern look, and super-flat pocket means nothing will get in the way of a player’s stroke.

Emily Frazer, Managing Director of Matchroom Multi Sport, said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our long-standing partnership with Predator Group and are so excited to debut their brand-new table at the World Pool Championship.

“We know Predator strive to deliver the best in the business and their table will be no different. Their design teams have worked tirelessly alongside their pro team to create a table made with direct input from some of the best players in the world, so we have no doubt the Predator table will help deliver a memorable World Championship.”

Karim Belhaj, CEO of Predator Group, added: "We are thrilled to reveal to the world the new Predator table and to have the opportunity to do it with our long-term partner Matchroom Multi Sport. It is yet another step towards creating a superior playing experience and we can't wait to see it in competition!"

In addition to providing the Official Table, Predator will also be the Official Cue of the World Pool Championship.

The World Pool Championship will be played across 16 tables, with 128 players battling it out to be crowned World Champion. The tournament will begin with a double elimination group stage before the final 64 enter a no-second-chances straight knockout stage. The prize fund stands at $250,000, with the new World Champion set to take home $50,000. The event will be broadcast live around the world, including on Sky Sports, DAZN and Matchroom.Live.

For all the latest news and announcements follow Matchroom Pool on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Simonis is the Official Cloth of CueSports International

CueSports International (CSI) is proud to announce a partnership in which Iwan Simonis, Inc. has renewed its commitment as the Official Cloth of CueSports International, the BCA Pool League and USA Pool League. Simonis Cloth will continue to be used in CSI, BCA Pool League and USA Pool League events, including the BCA Pool League World Championships and USA Pool League National Championships in Las Vegas which are part of the global pool spectacle known as the CueSports International Expo.

Simonis has long been the premier pool table cloth manufactured for superior consistency, accuracy and durability. Simonis Cloth can be found on pool tables all over the world and is the choice of professional players and amateurs alike.

​Ozzy Reynolds, CEO of CueSports International, said "It's difficult to name a company or brand with the longevity and reputation that Simonis has achieved. We are very happy to partner with such a great company and use Simonis Cloth in order to provide a great experience for our members.”

"It's difficult to name a company or brand with the longevity and reputation that Simonis has achieved. We are very happy to partner with such a great company and use Simonis Cloth in order to provide a great experience for our members.”
​- Ozzy Reynolds, Owner/CEO CueSports International

Ivan Lee, CEO of Iwan Simonis, Inc., said “I’m pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with CSI, their leagues and events. Ozzy and his team do a great job of bringing excitement and high-quality competition to their members through their commitment to the players and the use of best-in-class products like Simonis Cloth."

“I’m pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with CSI, their leagues and events. Ozzy and his team do a great job of bringing excitement and high-quality competition to their members through their commitment to the players and the use of best-in-class products like Simonis Cloth."
​- Ivan Lee, CEO Iwan Simonis, Inc.

​Iwan Simonis S.A.
Founded in 1680 in Verviers, Belgium, Iwan Simonis S.A. is the oldest company in the billiard industry. Iwan Simonis, Inc. is the North American home of the Simonis family of billiard brands including Simonis Cloth and Aramith Balls. For more information about Simonis, visit www.simoniscloth.com.

CueSports International
CueSports International is an international pool league and event leader and is comprised of three divisions: CSI leagues, CSI events and CSI media. CSI leagues manages the BCA Pool League, one of the oldest and largest pool leagues in the world. It also manages the USA Pool League, a newer but fast-growing amateur league completely powered by FargoRate. CSI events produces numerous amateur and professional events around the globe. CSI media creates live streaming and digital content. Through its progressive vision and strategic alliances, CSI is “Shaping the future of pool.”

For more information about CSI or its divisions, visit www.playcsipool.com or find CueSports International on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram or Twitter.

MATCHROOM TO WELCOME FANS TO FINAL DAY OF WORLD POOL CHAMPIONSHIP

Fans will be able to watch live pool in the UK again this June as Matchroom welcomes spectators to the final day of the World Pool Championship on Thursday, June 10 at Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes.

Ticket holders will be able to enjoy both semi-finals and the final of the sport’s biggest event, as the remaining four players do battle to be crowned pool’s World Champion.

Fans are currently permitted to attend the Dafabet World Pool Masters in Gibraltar, and UK spectators will be able to enjoy a similar setting with tables surrounding the arena to create a relaxed environment from which to enjoy the best players in the world competing on the biggest stage.

Attendees will be able to book in groups of 1, 2 or 3, with groups extending to no more than two households. In line with government regulations, spectators will not be required to test prior to arrival but must not attend if they are suffering from any symptoms of Covid-19.

Tickets will be priced at £25 and will give fans access to enjoy both semi finals (12-4pm) and the race-to-13 final from 6pm.

Further details will be available from Tuesday and fans can sign up to the free Matchroom Pool Club to be among the first to receive full sales information.

Snooker Tickets For UK Events On Sale From Friday

Tickets for EIGHT snooker events across the UK will go on sale this Friday May 28th at 10am, with tournaments to be staged at a range of outstanding venues.

WST will open the box offices for all of the events below on Friday morning and fans are urged to act fast to secure tickets. All details will be at www.wst.tv/tickets

Northern Ireland Open
Waterfront Hall, Belfast
October 10-17

English Open
Stadium MK, Milton Keynes
November 1-7

Scottish Open
Emirates Arena, Glasgow
December 6-12

Cazoo World Grand Prix
Ricoh Arena, Coventry
December 13-19

BetVictor Shoot Out
Morningside Arena, Leicester
January 20-23

Cazoo Players Championship
Aldersley Leisure Village, Wolverhampton
February 7-13

Welsh Open
ICC, Celtic Manor Resort
February 28 to March 6

Cazoo Tour Championship
Venue Cymru, Llandudno
March 28 to April 3

There are HALF PRICE SPECIAL OFFERS available for all of these events for selected rounds. Book fast to take advantage! Individual event detail will be available at www.wst.tv/tickets from Friday morning.

Our Triple Crown events are already on sale and are selling fast with limited availability so any remaining seats must be booked quickly:

UK Championship
York Barbican
November 23 to December 5

The Masters
Alexandra Palace, London
January 9-16

Betfred World Championship
Crucible Theatre, Sheffield
April 16 to May 2

This is your chance to experience the new golden era of snooker at a time when the standard of play and strength in depth on tour are greater than ever. The big titles will be contested by the sport’s leading stars including world number one Judd Trump, World Champion Mark Selby, Ronnie O’Sullivan, John Higgins, Neil Robertson, Shaun Murphy, Mark Williams, rising stars Kyren Wilson and Jack Lisowski, all-time legends Stephen Hendry and Jimmy White, and many more.

Snooker has led the sporting world in the post-lockdown return of live audiences, safely welcoming fans at the Crucible in April and May. Our intention is to host fans at all of our main events in the coming season.

We will continue to work closely with the UK Government and all of our venues and partners on Covid-19 regulation. Fans can be assured that all necessary precautions will be taken at events to minimise the risk of virus transmission, keeping safety as our highest priority. If at the time of the event the Government restrictions force this event to change its terms of attendance, customers will be offered a variety of options and where necessary refunds will be made available. As an additional measure and where possible, e-tickets will be issued in place of more traditional ticketing methods.

WST Chairman Steve Dawson said: “We are thrilled to offer this chance to snooker fans across the UK to come to our events next season and enjoy the incredible experience of watching snooker live. The World Championship at the Crucible was a landmark for British sport in welcoming back a live audience and the atmosphere was extraordinary. We want to see that repeated across our tour next season.

“It’s fantastic to add new host cities to our roster, such as Leicester, Coventry and Wolverhampton, where we know there is deep-rooted support for snooker, while keeping many of the superb venues we have grown to love over the years. The players are excited by the chance to get back out on the road around the UK, visit these great cities and enjoy the buzz of competing in front of fans.

“There has never been better time to watch snooker live and to witness the remarkable talent of the leading stars. Book tickets fast and be a part of our global tour.”

BCA ANNOUNCES 2021 VIRTUALL EXPO

VirtuALL Event Planned for July 26 - 30
    
Superior, Colo., June 1, 2021 – The Billiard Congress of America today announced it will host a 2021 BCA VirtuALL Expo, July 26 - 30.

“While there is no question, we would rather host an in-person event this year, what is most important is the success of any event for our members,” said BCA Chairman Ivan Lee. “The ongoing uncertainties related to the pandemic, coupled with an unprecedented disruption in global supply chains is placing strains on our industry. Based on member feedback, we decided to repeat the successful virtual event we had in 2020, bringing together exhibitors and buyers to prepare for the future of our sport.”

Using WHOVA, the same digital platform used last year, the 2021 BCA VirtuALL Expo will feature an exhibitor showcase, allowing participating manufacturers and distributors to engage with attendees from their virtual booths. Within the virtual booth, exhibitors will promote their companies and products via multiple mediums, including video, photos, and printed materials. Exhibitors will also have the opportunity to post exclusive offers and show specials.

The BCA VirtuALL Expo will feature popular elements from last year’s VirtuALL expo, including the opportunity for participants to engage with each other to discuss relevant industry issues, schedule meetups for live, virtual community forums, and exchange contact information.

More than 600 participants attended the 2020 VirtuALL Expo, resulting in tremendous engagement: more than 1,200 views of exhibitor booths, 1,600+ views of attendee profiles, 770+ messages exchanged between participants, and 500+ community messages posted on the community forums.

Attendee registration and participation for the five-day event will be free, with a small fee for exhibitor participation. Attendees can register via bcaexpo.com beginning Wednesday, June 23 and view the event from their PC or via a mobile app for the event. Participating exhibitors will also have an opportunity to purchase multiple booths to promote different product lines. The BCA will provide support to participating exhibitors to create their virtual booths.

“Our goal is to provide an easy-to-use platform and create a virtual exhibit hall where participants can effectively engage with each other,” said BCA CEO Rob Johnson. “Last year’s event was well received under tough circumstances, and we look forward to the same reception in 2021. Last year we committed to creating an easy platform for our exhibitors to create their virtual booths and for buyers to be able to navigate the digital exhibit hall while using the application’s features to post questions, respond to questions, schedule live discussions – all with the desire to provide a benefit for our industry. We will then look forward to meeting in person in 2022 at an in-person Expo.”

About Billiard Congress of America

Founded in 1948, the Billiard Congress of America is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to growing a united, prosperous and highly regarded billiard industry through BCA leadership. The BCA seeks to enhance the success of its members and promote the game of billiards though educational, marketing and promotional efforts, annual industry trade shows, tournaments and other programs designed to encourage billiards as a lifestyle and make pool everybody's game. For more information, visit BCA-Pool.com or call 303.243.5070.

Predator and CueSports International Launch the US Pro Billiard Series

June 3, 2021

Predator Group and CueSports International (CSI) are proud to announce the official launch of the US Pro Billiard Series. The 2021 inaugural season features five open/pro events between July and the end of the calendar year, each held alongside a CSI Leagues amateur event attended by hundreds and sometimes thousands of BCA Pool League & USA Pool League members.

The winner of each event receives a guaranteed spot in the $100,000 added 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Championship, to be held March 28 – April 1, at the CueSports International Expo in Las Vegas. The five 2021 US Pro Billiard Series events plus the end of season 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Championship boasts a quarter million dollars in added money and a total purse of nearly a half million dollars.

2021 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Event 1: US Pro Billiard Series – Arizona Open
July 28-31
Casino Del Sol Resort
Tucson, Arizona
(held with the CSI Leagues Arizona State Championships)

Event 2: US Pro Billiard Series – Diamond Las Vegas Open
Sept 1-4
Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada

(held with the BCA Pool League World Championships & USA Pool League National Championships)

Event 3: US Pro Billiard Series – Michigan Open
Sept 22-25
Kellogg Arena
Battle Creek, Michigan
(held with the CSI Leagues Michigan State Championships)

Event 4: US Pro Billiard Series – Ohio Open
Oct 13-16
Roberts Centre
Wilmington, OH
(held with the CSI Leagues Ohio State Championships)

Event 5: US Pro Billiard Series – Puerto Rico Open
Dates: TBA
Venue: TBA
San Juan, Puerto Rico
(held with the CSI Leagues Puerto Rico Championships)

For more information or to register for any of these events, visit www.USProBilliardSeries.com. Players are encouraged to not delay because many events are limited to 64 players and registration is on a first come, first serve basis.

“We are proud to partner with Predator and FargoRate to make the US Pro Billiard Series a reality. Holding these high-quality pro events along with our already established amateur league events across the country creates a synergy and an atmosphere not found elsewhere,” said Ozzy Reynolds, CEO of CueSports International. “We are never satisfied with ‘good enough.’ We constantly strive to be better and provide a great experience, not just another tournament.”

The US Pro Billiard Series will also feature its own points and ranking system managed by FargoRate. The top six players in the US Pro Billiard Series Rankings who do not earn a spot by winning an event or are not otherwise invited by the WPA, a WPA continental federation or a promotor wild card, will also earn spots in the $100,000 added 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Championship.

The ranking system is designed specifically to avoid the pitfalls of traditional points systems. Players earn two types of points – Tournament Points and FargoRate Points. Tournament Points are based upon where players finish in an event (i.e., the traditional approach). FargoRate Points are based upon players’ Fargo ratings relative to the field of players. The total number and distribution of FargoRate Points will match the total number and distribution of Tournament Points. This balanced blending of points allows for the emergence of rising talent while reducing the chance of top players being knocked out of contention by misfortune or a single poor performance.

When asked about FargoRate’s new responsibility in managing the ranking system, Co-Founder, Steve Ernst said, “We are very excited to be part of this new professional series. CueSports International and Predator are doing truly great things for the sport and we at FargoRate are honored to be included.”

The format of each event has been devised to create drama and excitement. Each match is two sets, race to four. If the set score is tied at 1-1, a spot shot shootout determines the winner. Stage 1 is double elimination to the final quarter of the field. Stage 2 is single elimination.

The feature table will be broadcast live on Billiard TV, the first and only 24/7 free television channel dedicated solely to broadcasting billiards programming. Billiard TV will feature full-length matches, trick shot exhibitions, instruction, commentary, news and more. It is scheduled to launch in June and will immediately be available in 12 countries and to 30 million viewers.

The equipment used for each event, with the exception of the Diamond Las Vegas Open, will be Predator tables covered with Predator Arcadia Reserve Cloth, Predator Arcos II Balls, Predator Arena Lights, Predator Bridges and Predator 1080 Pure Chalk. The Diamond Las Vegas Open will be played on Diamond Pro-Am tables.

“We are excited to build a US tour in partnership with CSI that brings back professional competitions to North America on a regular basis,” said Karim Belhaj, CEO of Predator Group. “We want to give back to the sport, and in particular to pro players that are inspiring new and long-time fans alike. We can all benefit from creating more excitement around the sport.”

Predator Group’s mission is to inspire billiard fans by providing innovative experiences and products that deliver high-performance, with unsurpassed class and style. Predator, Poison and Uni-Loc are Predator Group brands that focus on performance pool cues, billiard accessories and precision components. For more information regarding Predator Group’s products, visit www.predatorcues.com, www.poisoncues.com and www.uni-loc.com.

CueSports International (CSI) is an international pool league and event leader and is currently comprised of three divisions: CSI Leagues, CSI Events and CSI Media. CSI Leagues manages the BCA Pool League and USA Pool League, CSI Events produces numerous amateur and professional events around the globe and CSI Media creates live streaming and digital content. Through its vision and strategic alliances, CSI is “shaping the future of pool.” For more information about CSI or any of its divisions, visit www.playcsipool.com or find CueSports International on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter.

FargoRate computes pocket-billiard player ratings that rate amateur and professional players worldwide. FargoRate currently has over 19 million games played by nearly a quarter million players from 130 countries in its massive data set. Coupling game win/loss data across local leagues, regions, countries, and continents ensures players everywhere are rated on the same scale. Its mission is to usher in a new era for pocket billiards in which all players everywhere, amateur or professional, are interconnected and rated by objective performance. For more information about FargoRate, visit www.fargorate.com.