Site News
Topic: *Industry News* 2015 - 2024

CSI Donates Disqualified Player�s Winnings to Charity

CueSports International, Henderson, NV (August 13, 2018) � CueSports International (CSI), parent company of the BCA Pool League (BCAPL), donated to charity the winnings of a player disqualified from a division of the 2018 BCA Pool League World Championships. During one of his matches, the player was overheard bragging about entering the tournament with a low rating. After hearing that, his opponent followed the correct procedure and submitted a formal protest to the Tournament Director before the match ended.

Tournament officials took immediate action and began investigating the issue by interviewing both players, numerous people in the area and others who know both players including the League Operators. Based on all available information, CSI concluded that the player intentionally entered the event at a rating other than his own which placed him in a lower division. This is defined as cheating per the event rules and regulations as stated below.

Don�t Get Disqualified

We take player ratings very seriously. A player who intentionally enters an event with a transitional or starter rating that is too low for his or her ability, is cheating. Be aware that we have tools in place to monitor players who are consistently and significantly performing above their rating during the event. CSI reserves the right to disqualify any player without refund. Therefore, if you believe you are underrated, contact CSI prior to the registration deadline.

Therefore, the player was immediately disqualified without receiving prize money or a refund. Because he was disqualified at a bracket position that would have paid over $1,000 in prize money, CSI donated the entire amount to Donate Life America, a nonprofit alliance of national organizations and state teams across the U.S. committed to increasing the number of donated organs, eyes, and tissue available for transplant to save and heal lives.

Although the disqualified player had won the protested match, that result was reversed and the opponent continued in the event.

CSI is committed to providing fair and fun competition at all CSI events and we will continue to act swiftly if cheating is suspected. We applaud the opposing player for calmly and professionally following the protest procedure and helping to identify cheating.

For more information on how to sanction an existing league, start a new league, or join a league, visit www.playbca.com or call the BCA Pool League office at 866-USA-POOL.

CSI is the parent company of the BCA Pool League, USA Pool League, and events such as the US Bar Table Championships, US Open 10-Ball Championship, US Open 8-Ball Championship, and much more. For more information, visit www.playcsipool.com or call 702-719-POOL.

Ivan Lee Honored with Billiard Congress of America 2017 President's Award    

Superior, Colo., - August 14, 2018. Each year the chairman of the Billiard Congress of America Board of Directors recognizes an outstanding individual who has made significant contributions to the billiard industry with the presentation of the BCA President's Award. 2017/2018 BCA Chairman Chance Pack has chosen to recognize Ivan Lee of with the BCA President's Award for 2017.

Lee, having been involved in the billiard industry for over 25 years, has served on the BCA Board of Directors for more than 13 years and has served as BCA Board Chairman five times. Lee's industry contributions reach beyond the BCA including being a board member for the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) and the World-Pool Billiard Association (WPA).

As president of Iwan Simonis North America, Lee has also positioned the company as one of the top sponsors and financial supporters in the industry. Simonis is involved with a host of national and local events, including several amateur leagues and their national events, the BCA Hall of Fame, the Professional Billiard Instructor Association (PBIA), the Mosconi Cup, Atlantic Challenge Cup (ACC), Women's Professional Billiard Association (WPBA), United States Billiard Association (USBA) and the BEF.

"When I step back and look at everything Ivan has done for this industry during the past 20 plus years, I really can't think of anyone more deserving of the President's Award," says Pack. "When an event, tournament, or program needs a sponsor, Ivan is usually one of the first to offer his time, his input and his company's support. He's personally invested his time to serve this industry in just about every capacity available. A lot of people and organizations have benefitted from his dedication to our industry."

"The WPA would like to congratulate Ivan Lee as the recipient of the 2017 BCA President's Award," stated Ian Anderson, President of the WPA. "It was a pleasure to have Ivan's involvement when he served on the WPA Board of Directors representing North America. His judgement and acumen were always keenly sought and highly regarded. This is a most fitting prestigious award to someone of great integrity with a true passion for the sport."

Former BCA chairman and president of Tweeten Fibre Co. Skip Nemecek commented, "Congratulations to Ivan Lee. His commitment to the BCA, the pool industry, and pool community are unsurpassed. This is certainly a well-deserved honor. I can't count the number of years Ivan has tirelessly worked on behalf of the BCA and hopefully there are many more years to come. Well done!"

Lee began his billiard career working for Ray Schuler Custom Cues in 1991. "Ivan hired me at Schuler Cues in 1995. He was always really fun to work with, and he knew just about everyone and everything in the billiard industry," said Noel Mendoza, owner of P&L Custom Cues. "Ivan is a huge asset for the billiard industry, and I hope he will stay in the sport for many years to come as he still has a lot to contribute."

After Schuler Custom Cues, he moved to become the division manager of Atlas Billiard Supply in 2001 before becoming the president of Iwan Simonis North America in 2004. "Mr. Lee was our first general manager at Atlas Billiard Supplies, back in the pre-internet era," stated Richard Welch, owner of Atlas Billiard Supplies. "He was instrumental in getting our first website off the ground and expanding our presence in the cue-making fraternity. He introduced us to new materials and suppliers, and his personal friendships with many custom cue-makers helped us grow to be the premier supplier to the industry. As a long-standing member of the BCA, we congratulate him as a worthy recipient of the BCA President's Award."

About the 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.

Europe Announces 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup Team Captain

Superior, Colo., August 16, 2018, The European Pocket Billiard Federation today announced they will be sticking with a tried and tested method by selecting their youth sports director Tomas Brikmanis, to lead Team Europe during the 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup in Las Vegas, November 29 - December 1, 2018.

"Europe has won the first three Atlantic Challenge Cup annual competitions and Tomas Brikmanis has been with the team for the last two," said EPBF President Gre Leenders. "He brings invaluable experience to the team as we head to the Las Vegas for the 2018 event."

Partnered in 2017 with Europe's top gun, Austria's Albin Ouschan, Brikmanis also captained the team on his own in 2016. The team's early victory that year allowed them to make a trip to downtown Chicago for sightseeing and shopping. Asked whether he'll be thinking about shopping this year in Vegas he replied, "That was crazy in Chicago, but a lot of fun, too. We had a great team and they deserved a celebration in Chicago. What we have here in Europe is special, with a pond full of ripe talent, and a qualifying system that allows only the very best to be selected. Youth European champion in 10-ball or straight-pool is no guarantee you get on the team," Brikmanis said with a smile.

Starting November 29th, this year Brikmanis will be up against the legendary Allison Fisher who was recently named as the USA Atlantic Challenge Cup team captain. Helping Alison is the ever-present Earl Munson and former USA Mosconi Cup team captain Mark Wilson.

Asked whether the task ahead looked daunting considering the three heads on the USA team, Brikmanis replied, "Of course I have a lot of respect for all of them, but I faced five heads in Chicago, Allison included. I'm sure that result still hurts and she'll be up for reversing it. I am really looking forward to taking my team to Las Vegas and I know they will be ready. So, we are going for that trophy and the shopping can wait," Brikmanis replied with a laugh.

Launched in 2015, the Atlantic Challenge Cup features the best youth players from Europe and America in a Mosconi Cup style event. Six players on each team, four boys and two girls, battle it out on an annual basis to see who has bragging rights across the Atlantic. The event is the result of a joint venture between the Billiard Congress of America and the European Pocket Billiard Federation.

Stay tuned to AtlanticChallengeCup.com for continuous updates on the 2018 event.

BCA Names Brian Igielski of GLD Products 2018-2019 Board Chairman

Superior, Colo. - August 20, 2018 - During its general membership meeting in New Orleans, La., on July 10, 2018, the Billiard Congress of America announced the results of its 2018-2019 Board of Directors elections, which are as follows:

Category 1 (Manufacturer/Distributor)
Brian Rosselli (Olhausen Billiard Mfg.), three-year term
Chance Pack (Champion Shuffleboard), three-year term
Ivan Lee, (Iwan Simonis), two-year term
In the follow-up election of BCA officers, Brian Igielski (GLD Products) accepted a one-year term as BCA Board Chairman, as did each of the remaining seated officers: Vice Chairman Wesley Bond (Cue and Case, Inc.); Secretary Dan Pucci (American Heritage Billiards); and Treasurer Brian Rosselli (Olhausen Billiard Mfg).

The remaining directors include: Kim Morrison Murdock (International Billiards); David Piha (Greater Southern Home Recreation); Ozzy Reynolds (CueSports International); Ivan Lee (Iwan Simonis); and Chance Pack (Champion Shuffleboard).

"I am honored to serve as BCA chairman," said Igielski. "I look forward to continue the work the BCA Board of Directors and BCA staff have started to help enhance the success of our members and promote the billiard and home leisure lifestyle."

Indian Open Postponed

It is with regret that we must announce that the decision has been taken to postpone the upcoming Indian Open in Kochi due to the flooding in the Kerala region.

We are heartbroken to hear of the loss of life and suffering in the area and our thoughts are with the people of India at this difficult time.

The tournament was due to take place from September 18th-22nd. However, the event will now go ahead at a later date and we are looking forward to travelling to the region in the near future. Further details on the re-scheduling will be released in due course.

The Indian Open has become a firm fixture on the World Snooker Tour calendar since Ding Junhui�s victory at the inaugural running of the event in 2013. Last year 30-time ranking event winner John Higgins became the fourth player to take home the title.

World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: �The World Snooker Tour is fortunate to be able to visit Incredible India each year for this fantastic event. Everyone at World Snooker and the WPBSA has been devastated to hear about the horrendous flooding. There is no doubt in our mind that we will take our sport to this region at a more appropriate time in support of the people of Kerala.�

USA Announces 2018 Team USA for 4th Annual Atlantic Challenge Cup

Superior, Colo., August 22, 2018. The 2018 team includes reigning 2018 Junior National 9-Ball Champions Kaiden Hunkins (U16), Joey Tate (U14), and Michelle Jiang (U18). These three champions will be joined by a pair of Atlantic Challenge Cup veterans in Shane Wolford and April Larson, along with longtime junior standout Justin Martin.

"To be selected as a member of Team USA is a great honor," said ACC Team USA Captain Allison Fisher. "This team was chosen for their abilities to compete at this level, as they are all champions, and because they have demonstrated a genuine respect and passion for the game. They understand what a great opportunity it is to compete in the Atlantic Challenge Cup as a member of Team USA. We look forward to combining their talents to form a great team to compete against Team Europe."

Members of 2018 Team U.S.A.
Kaiden Hunkins, age 16 (Waukesha, WI)
Michelle Jiang, age 18 (Harvard, MA)
April Larson, age 18 (Bloomington, MN)
Justin Martin, age 19 (Wilmington, NC)
Joey Tate, age 13 (Raleigh, NC)
Shane Wolford, age 18 (Troutville, VA)
"The Team USA Selection Committee had the difficult process of selecting six players out of more than 100 nominations," said BCA CEO Rob Johnson. "While not an easy selection process, the selection committee did their due diligence and has chosen a great team to compete against Team Europe. We are excited with how quickly this has become such a prestigious event."

Stay tuned to AtlanticChallengeCup.com for continuous updates on the 2018 event.

PERI and ECLAT Cues are officially sponsoring the EPBF

PERI and ECLAT Cues are now officially part of the EPBF sponsor family for all events in 2018. PERI and ECLAT Cues are produced by the Weilu Billiards International Co., Ltd. is a family-owned company founded in 2011.

Weilu Billiards International Co., Ltd is specialised in the research and development of pool cues, carom cues, accessories,etc. The company has continuously improved its R&D design and process technology service capabilities, and gradually established an internationalised map centered on the mainland of China and extended to the rest of the world. At the same time, it relies on the company. With rich production and management experience, the company is actively engaged in factory manufacturing, technology research and development, closely linked to the knowledge economy and the pulse of the network economy, and strives to build a global service-oriented enterprise.

With forward-looking decision making, advanced equipment and professional manufacturing team, since the foundation of Tianjin in 2011, the company has grown rapidly and has a global customer base. It is a world-famous manufacturing foundry company for PERI and ECLAT cue.

Stars and Stripes come to the Eurotour in Leende

The Dynamic Billard Leende Open (20-23 September) will welcome the visiting PartyPoker Mosconi Cup hopefuls from America. Team captain, Johan Ruysink, will bring his team to the Eurotour in preparation for the 25th edition of the Mosconi Cup this December where the squad of eight players will be reduced to five.

The Eurotour is used to players from other continents and has welcomed Shane Van Boening a few times in the past. However, this situation where the entire team from the USA Mosconi Cup will compete on the Eurotour, is unique.

The USA Mosconi hopefuls consist of, Shane Van Boening, Billy Thorpe, Skyler Woodward, Oscar Dominquez, Tyler Styer, Mitchell Ellerman and Shane McMinn and for many it will be their first taste of the Eurotour. Team USA Mosconi Cup captain, Johan Ruysink had this to say about their visit.

�The Euro Tour has been the foundation for the European players for heavy and tough competition. It has been there for a considerate time now and is always well organised. Playing on good material in a good set up against the best European player gives us a great chance to play all the players that are competing for the European squad. Being out of their comfort zone, the American players can have a taste of the level and tenacity that they will encounter on the Mosconi Cup, so it is probably the best practice we can get.�

Johan was also asked, if one of your players reach the semi-finals, does that make him automatic choice for the team come December or do you have other goals set for this event? �Of course, the results during the European trip will be considered once we will pick the final 5 players, but I don�t want to commit myself to promises that might be overruled. Results are not the only criteria for qualifying, but it would be great to see some of the players rise to the occasion and do well, as I expect them to do. This trip is a big part of our preparation, so I am grateful that we got a chance of playing this Euro Tour. I am very curious to see how things will work out in the Netherlands.�

David Morris, IBPF President said �It will be a great test for the visitors and a unique opportunity for some of our less established players to take some big scalps. We have some excellent players who don�t make the European team, and they will be out to prove a point if they�re paired against a USA team member. It will be tough for team USA but it will be interesting, that�s for sure�

When asked if this trip would help the Americans halt the European dominance of later years? Matchrooms, Luke Riches had this to say;

Anything that brings the team together for meaningful preparation is always a good thing. There�s been a feeling that in recent times, Europe has been more of a team compared to the Americans and the fact that they play throughout the year on the Eurotour is a big contributing factor.

Hopefully, Team USA�s preparation in Europe will make a big difference for them and we will see the results in December.

The Dynamic Billard Leende Open takes place at the Golden Tulip Jagershorst hotel in Leende NL, starting on the 20th September and will be streamed live on www.kozoom.com

The event is hosted by the European Governing Body for Pool, the European Pocket Billiard Federation (EPBF) and organised by International Billiard Promotion (IBP). For further information and reference please go to the federation website www.eurotouronline.eu or visit us on Facebook for regular news clips or contact our press office press@epbf.com.

Europe Announces 2018 Team for 4th Annual Atlantic Challenge Cup

The European Pocket Billiard Federation today announced its team to face the Americans during this year's staging of the 4th annual Atlantic Challenge Cup taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, November 29 - December 1, 2018 at the South Point Hotel and Casino.

The European team consists of Russia's Fedor Gorst, Poland's Wiktor Zielinski, Netherland's Jan van Lierop, and Germany's Patrick Hofmann. On the girls' side are Russia's Valeriia Trushevskaya and Poland's Weronika Karwik. Zielinski and Hoffman have qualified for the European team for the second year in a row and both played key roles in last year's victory, with Zielinski pocketing the last 9-Ball for the team win and Hoffman returning as the 2017 MVP.

"Every year is a new year with a new team, we cannot look at Europe's past performances in the Atlantic Challenge Cup and think this year will be easy," said EPBF president Gre Leenders. "We have tremendous respect for Allison Fischer and we are confident she will have Team USA ready to play and be very competitive. However, I am positive Team Europe's Captain Tomas Brikmanis will have this year's team focused and ready to play. His experience and insights from the 2016 Chicago victory will help our team members traveling to the United States and playing in such a high-pressure team atmosphere for the first time."

Launched in 2015, the Atlantic Challenge Cup features the best youth players from Europe and America in a Mosconi Cup style event. Six players on each team, four boys and two girls, battle it out on an annual basis to see who has bragging rights across the Atlantic. The event is the result of a joint venture between the Billiard Congress of America and the European Pocket Billiard Federation.

Stay tuned to AtlanticChallengeCup.com for continuous updates on the 2018 event.

DIAMOND BILLIARD PRODUCTS INC. Joins The Atlantic Challenge Cup

Superior, Colo., September 18, 2018. The Billiard Congress of America today announced DIAMOND BILLIARD PRODUCTS INC. will be supplying the official match table during this year's Atlantic Challenge Cup taking place in Las Vegas, November 29 - December 1, 2018 at the South Point Hotel and Casino.

Launched in 1987, DIAMOND's tables have been used in hundreds of national and international tournaments and events. Every facet of the DIAMOND table is manufactured to exacting standards that meet or exceed all specifications from the Billiard Congress of America while being manufactured in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Diamond Logo

"DIAMOND has been a continuous supporter of the game and we are thrilled to have their support for the 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup," said BCA Chief Executive Officer Rob Johnson. "These tables are truly designed by players for players. When you look at the companies who constantly give back to the game, including junior play, you have to look no further than DIAMOND."

"DIAMOND supports the young pool players of today through many great organizations such as the BCA & EPBF," said DIAMOND Vice President Chad Scharlow. "As the youth of today continue to advance in the great sport of billiards, they learn that commitment, perseverance, and hard work advances their game and prepares them to become successful adults. DIAMOND wishes all the players great success at the upcoming Atlantic Challenge Cup."

Launched in 2015, the Atlantic Challenge Cup features the best youth players from Europe and America in a Mosconi Cup style event. Six players on each team, four boys and two girls, battle it out on an annual basis to see who has bragging rights across the Atlantic. The event is the result of a joint venture between the Billiard Congress of America and the European Pocket Billiard Federation.

Stay tuned to AtlanticChallengeCup.com for continuous updates on the 2018 event.

Crazy Thursday coming up again in Leende, The Netherlands

The next stop of the Dynamic Billard Euro-Tour, the Dynamic Billard Leende Open 2018, will begin tomorrow. 156 players from 31 countries have registered to compete on the 11 Dynamic III tables in the Golden Tulip Jagershorst Hotel in Leende. The largest contingencies of players are coming from Germany (26), Netherlands (21) and Poland (17). But also countries that are far away are represented very well in Leende, such as Saudi Arabia (8), The United States of America (8) and even Chile (1). As already advertised in a previous press release, the US contingency consists of the applicants for this year�s US Mosconi Cup team. They will have to demonstrate their abilities �under fire� in a European top event in order to be picked by the captain Johan Ruysink for the Mosconi Cup team. Their opponents include the complete line-up of the top ten players of the Euro-Tour rankings, among others. Mario He (AUT), current leader of the rankings, will need a high finish result in order to protect his #1 spot. He will lose 550 points from first place last year in Salt Johann. Runner-up Eklent Kaci (ALB) is already in the starting gates to take over the lead since he does not loose any points from last year. The third man who is hot for taking the lead in the Euro-Tour rankings is Mario He�s teammate Albin Ouschan (AUT). He also loses a lot of points from last year like Mario He so the two Austrians are depending on Kaci not doing well in this event. The total prize-money in Leende is 36.000,-� with 4.500,-� going to the winner alone. Additionally, valuable rankings points are at stake for the players. Matches start tomorrow morning at 09:00 CET.

Once again, Kozoom and the EPBF will feature the �Crazy Thursday�. Just like in Treviso and Sankt Johann this year, on Thursday all matches will be free on www.kozoom.com to watch. All one needs to do is to register with Kozoom and then choose one of the 11 tables of the event. Additionally, one match per round will be featured LIVE on the EPBF Facebook page.

Friday through Sunday, EPBF will show two feature matches LIVE on the EPBF Facebook page. The complete tournament is shown on kozoom.com for premium pass holders.

The event is hosted by the European Governing Body for Pool, the European Pocket Billiard Federation (EPBF) and organised by International Billiard Promotion (IBP). Play starts Thursday at 09:00 local time, for further information and reference please go to the federation website www.epbf.com under the Eurotour tab. You can also visit us on our Facebook page or check out the EPBF YouTube channel for regular news clips or contact our press office press@epbf.com.

BetVictor Sponsors Snooker�s English Open

World Snooker is delighted to announce that BetVictor, one of Europe�s leading online gaming companies, is the title sponsor of the English Open for the first time.

The BetVictor English Open will run from October 15 to 21 at K2 Crawley, with top stars including defending champion Ronnie O�Sullivan, world number one Mark Selby, world champion Mark Williams, John Higgins and Judd Trump among the field.

In all 128 players will start in flat draw, in which they�ll need to win seven matches to scoop the Steve Davis Trophy and a top prize of �70,000.

Televised by Eurosport and Quest, the English Open is the first of the season�s Home Nations series, which�ll be followed by tournaments in Belfast, Glasgow and Cardiff. Any player winning all four trophies will bank a massive �1 million bonus.

BetVictor has a strong affiliation with the sport having previously sponsored the Welsh Open from 2013 for four consecutive years. This exciting sponsorship will allow the operator to tap into the growing snooker global fan base.

Commenting on the partnership, World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: �We are thrilled to bring BetVictor back on board for the first ranking event to be staged in the UK this season. They have been great supporters of snooker over the years and they are a fantastic team to work with.

�This is the first time we have staged a major tournament in Crawley and I hope to see the arena packed as the fans have the chance to see 128 of the best players on the planet live in action. Eurosport broadcasts our sport to 137 million homes in 54 countries so the television audience is vast. It will be a sensational week of snooker,� added Hearn.

Director of Sportsbook at BetVictor, Matt Scarrott, said: �We�re really pleased to be working with World Snooker. Over the last few years, snooker has grown in popularity at an astonishing rate as it continues to gain international relevance. At BetVictor, we�ve been following the sport for quite some time, having previously sponsored the Welsh Open for four years, and partnering with World Snooker once again will allow us to expand our footprint into this growing global market.�

Tickets are on sale now and start at just �10 � and with up to eight tables in play during the early rounds, it�s tremendous value for money. All-day tickets start at just �20, and there are still a limited number of tickets available for the showpiece final on Sunday October 21st, with all-day tickets at �55. There are also a limited number of Event Passes which give access to every session of the tournament for just �160!

For ticket details visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets or call 0871 620 7052.

Billiard Congress Of America To Manage Billiard Education Foundation

Superior, Colo., - October 12, 2018. - The Billiard Congress of America today announced it has reached an agreement with the Billiard Education Foundation's Board of Trustees to assume oversight and day-to-day management of the organization.

The Billiard Education Foundation, formed in 1993 as a non-profit charity, is committed to promoting a lifelong love of pool and building the next generation of players through youth programs and academic scholarships.

Key programs of the BEF include the annual BEF Junior National 9-Ball Championships, annual Junior State Championships, annual selection and support of juniors competing in the WPA World Junior 9-Ball Championships, academic scholarship and awards, Pool in School programming and curriculum development, and junior instruction in partnership with the Professional Billiard Instructors Association.

"After teaming up to produce the BEF Junior Nationals, Atlantic Challenge Cup and Break and Run Junior Premier Instructional Program, it is evident a partnership is the best way to promote the game to a new generation of players," said Billiard Congress of America Chairman Brian Igielski. "I'd like to thank the Billiard Education Foundation's Board of Trustees and Billiard Congress of America's Board of Directors for their support in making junior pool a priority. We look forward to making the most of the support our industry is demonstrating for junior programs."

"This partnership is a great addition to the ever-growing support we are dedicated to providing junior players and their parents," said Billiard Education Foundation President Tom Riccobene. "In the foundation's 30th anniversary year, throughout America more teachers and coaches than ever now recognize that playing pool promotes positive growth in social, cognitive and physical skills. On behalf of these professionals, as well as our fantastic group of volunteers and trustees, we want to thank the Billiard Congress of America for their commitment to help us promote, operate and grow our junior programs."

Team USA Completes Training Camp In Preparation For 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup

One of the first ideas BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher had as the newly selected captain of the 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup team was to create a team camp to allow the newly established group an opportunity to come together before competing in November. The camp was led by the expertise of Fisher and assistant Team USA captain Mark Wilson. With sponsors Tweeten Fibre and Iwan Simonis helping the Billiard Congress of America fund the experience, the idea quickly became reality. The team recently completed three days of training at Lindenwood University in Saint Charles, Missouri.

"It was great to get everyone together," said Fisher. "The kids really bonded as a team! Both Mark and I are so pleased with the attention and effort each player put into learning over the weekend. We are excited about the enthusiasm this team is displaying and are looking forward to seeing them maintain this dedication of excellence leading up to and throughout the Atlantic Challenge Cup."

I believe that having our team practice and drill under the supervision of Mark and Allison is going to pay great dividends for these players as they gear up for the competition in Las Vegas," said Ivan Lee of Iwan Simonis and Aramith. "With such fine facilities and quality instruction, the team gained fantastic experience."

"I'd like to thank Mark Wilson, Allison Fisher, Lindenwood University and the BCA for hosting the ACC Team USA training camp this year," said Skip Nemecek of Tweeten Fibre. "What a great opportunity for our young athletes to experience such a high level of instruction in a professional and educational environment with a bit of fun and relaxation on the side. Everyone involved should be proud of this year's team as well as the amount help from so many people behind the scenes. I am confident Team USA will have a great 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup in Las Vegas. Well done BCA and everyone in the cue sports world for providing such a special opportunity for the current and future stars of our sport!"

Launched in 2015, the Atlantic Challenge Cup features the best youth players from Europe and America in a Mosconi Cup style event. Six players on each team, four boys and two girls, battle it out on an annual basis to see who has bragging rights across the Atlantic. The event is the result of a joint venture between the Billiard Congress of America and the European Pocket Billiard Federation.

Stay tuned to AtlanticChallengeCup.com for continuous updates on the 2018 event.

Press release issued by the BCA & EPBF.

WADA Publishes 2019 Prohibited List

On September 28, 2018 the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) publishes the 2019 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods; the 2019 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes; and the 2019 Monitoring Program. The List, which was approved by WADA's Executive Committee (ExCo) on September 20, 2018, comes into force on January 1, 2019.

The List, which is one of six International Standards that are mandatory for all Signatories of the World Anti-Doping Code, designates what substances and methods are prohibited both in- and out-of-competition, and which substances are banned in particular sports.

WADA Director General Olivier Niggli said: "WADA is pleased to announce the publication of the 2019 Prohibited List. Updated annually, it is one of the cornerstones of the global anti-doping program. Every year, we review the List in consultation with a wide range of stakeholders. It is vital that we stay ahead of those that endeavor to cheat the system so in reviewing the List, experts review sources such as scientific and medical research, trends, and intelligence gathered from law enforcement and pharmaceutical companies."

(read full report from WADA)

BEF Sending Student-Athletes To 2018 Junior World 9-Ball Championships

13 Players Slated To Compete Against The World's Best Juniors

The 2018 Billiard Education Foundation Junior National 9-Ball Championships, held this past July, qualified 13 billiard student-athletes to represent North America for the upcoming WPA Junior World 9-Ball Championships. From October 30 - November 4, 2018, the prestigious annual world event will take place for a second consecutive time in Moscow, Russia.

Through the support of the Billiard Congress of America, the BEF continues to coordinate international travel and participation for this tournament, a tradition it has carried on for the past two decades.

The following players will proudly represent the United States in 2018:
Jordan Burden, U18 (Jacksonville, FL)
Thomas Hass, U18 (Lancaster, PA)
Matthew Wiseley, U16 (Poplar Bluff, MO)
Austin Summers, U16 (Metropolis, IL)
Joey Tate, U16 (Lake Villa, IL)
Mahkeal Parris, U16 (St. Croix, US Virgin Islands)
Michelle Jiang, Girls U18 (Harvard, MA)
April Larson, Girls U18 (Bloomington, MN)
Aryana Lynch, Girls U18 (Allen, TX)
Tiana Jiang, Girls U18 (Harvard, MA)
Vivian Liu, Girls 18 (Hayward, ME)
Along with the lineup of talent from the U.S., Canadians Dean Cullerier (U18), and Haydar Ali Cappo (U16) will also be representing North America at the Junior World Championships.

Imperial International Named Official Furniture Supplier Of 2018 Atlantic Challenge Cup

The Billiard Congress of America today announced Imperial International has been named official furniture supplier during this year's Atlantic Challenge Cup taking place in Las Vegas, November 29 - December 1, 2018 at the South Point Hotel and Casino. Imperial will be providing its Imperial Spectator Chair and Cue Holders for Team USA and Team Europe to use during the competition.

"Imperial International has supported the game and the Billiard Congress of America for decades," said Billiard Congress of America Chief Executive Officer Rob Johnson. "From the initial announcement of the Atlantic Challenge Cup, Imperial has lent us incredible support for the event. They are part of a very special group of partners who understand the bigger picture of giving back to our industry - whether it's trade-related or play-related."

"Imperial is proud to be part of this international event that fosters the passion for the game of billiards in the next generation of players," said Imperial President Zach DiMotta. "Initiatives like this are important to keep the game thriving and bring awareness to our youth."

Launched in 2015, the Atlantic Challenge Cup features the best youth players from Europe and America in a Mosconi Cup style event. Six players on each team, four boys and two girls, battle it out on an annual basis to see who has bragging rights across the Atlantic. The event is the result of a joint venture between the Billiard Congress of America and the European Pocket Billiard Federation.

Stay tuned to AtlanticChallengeCup.com for continuous updates on the 2018 event.

Press release issued by the BCA & EPBF.

2018 US Open Bank Pool Matches Released on YouTube

October 24, 2018

CSI is pleased to announce that recorded matches from the 2018 US Open Bank Pool Championship have been released on the CSI YouTube Channel. Twelve (12) matches featuring notable players such as Shane Van Boening, Ronnie Alcano, and Warren Kiamco can be viewed in their entirety � absolutely free!

The 2018 US Open Bank Pool Championship was held March 20-22 at Griff's Bar & Billiards in Las Vegas, NV and was made possible by the following sponsors:

?Griff's Bar & Billiards: www.griffslv.com
CueSports International (CSI): www.playcsipool.com
Simonis Cloth: www.simoniscloth.com
Cyclop Balls: www.diamondpooltables.com/Cyclop-Ball-Sets
Tiger Products: www.tigerproducts.com
OB Cues: www.obcues.com

RECORDED MATCHES

Match 1: Warren Kiamco vs Bob Herchik

Match 2: Gary Lutman vs Bill Thompson

Match 3: Shane Van Boening vs Tres Kane

Match 4: Brandon Shuff vs Gary Lutman

Match 5: Shane Van Boening vs Ronnie Alcano

Match 6: Manny Perez vs Steve Lingelbach

Match 7: Brandon Shuff vs Steve Lingelbach

Match 8: Shane Van Boening vs Dee Atkins

Match 9: Chris Lulek vs Neal Jacobs

Match 10: Shane Van Boening vs Neal Jacobs (Hot Seat Match)

Match 11: Neal Jacobs vs Gary Lutman (Semi-Final Match)

Match 12: Shane Van Boening vs Neal Jacobs (Finals)

Please SUBSCRIBE to the CSI YouTube Channel to be notified whenever we upload new content.

CueSports International
www.playcsipool.com
702-719-7665

APA announced as Team USA main sponsor

MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT is delighted to announce that the American Poolplayers Association (APA) has once again signed on as the main sponsor for Team USA for the forthcoming partypoker Mosconi Cup which takes place at the Alexandra Palace, London from Monday 4th to 7th December.

Team USA will all be sporting the APA logo on their team uniform throughout the event and the players and coaches will all be involved to bring a unique behind- the-scenes look as the tournament progresses on a daily basis.

Not only is APA the Official Sponsor of Team USA, but they also bring the support of their nearly 250,000 members who will be rooting for their team to reclaim the Mosconi Cup for the first time in nine years.

“We’re very proud to sponsor Team USA once again this year. We believe this is the year that Team USA once again hoists the Mosconi Cup in victory, and we look forward to bringing the excitement to our members as it unfolds in London,” said APA Marketing Director Jason Bowman.

Matchroom Multi Sport COO Emily Frazer added; “It is great news that the APA will again be backing Team USA at this year’s Mosconi Cup. The APA will be working closely with ourselves and Team USA before, during and after the Mosconi Cup to bring exclusive interviews and exciting behind the scenes content to APA players across America.

“This partnership is of huge benefit to both parties. Together APA and Team USA can promote pool to the sport’s biggest audience at the Mosconi Cup, while the American team will benefit from the support of thousands of players across the USA.”

Tickets for the Mosconi Cup are available from www.mosconicup.com

BetVictor Expands Partnership With World Snooker

The partnership expansion will see BetVictor become title sponsor the 2018 Northern Ireland Open and 2018 Scottish Open

BetVictor, one of Europe’s leading online gaming companies, has extended its partnership with World Snooker, which will see the operator become title sponsor of two more of this season's Home Nations events - the Northern Ireland Open and Scottish Open. This follows BetVictor's successful sponsorship of the English Open, the first event in the series which was won by Stuart Bingham in Crawley last month.

The BetVictor Northern Ireland Open will run from November 12 to 18 at the Belfast Waterfront Hall, followed by the BetVictor Scottish Open at the Glasgow Emirates Arena from December 10 to 16.

The tournament in Belfast boasts a strong field of 128 players including 15 of the world's top 16, battling for the Alex Higgins Trophy. Mark Williams will be aiming to defend the title against the likes of Ronnie O'Sullivan, Mark Selby, Judd Trump, John Higgins and home favourite Mark Allen. Next month in Glasgow, it will be Neil Robertson defending the Stephen Hendry Trophy, too, among 128 players competing for the title.

Televised by Eurosport and Quest, each of the Home Nations series events has a top prize of £70,000, and if Bingham can win all four titles he will scoop an unprecedented £1,000,000 bonus.

Commenting on the partnership, World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: “We are delighted to join forces with BetVictor once again for these two prestigious tournaments. The company has been a strong supporter of the sport, having previously sponsored the Welsh Open from 2013 for four consecutive years and more recently the English Open, so we’re very pleased to be building on this partnership.

"The Home Nations series has proved to be a fantastic addition to our tour and I'm looking forward to seeing packed arenas in Belfast and Glasgow as fans take the opportunity to see the very best players on the planet.”

Director of Sportsbook at BetVictor Matt Scarrott said: “We’re excited to be expanding our partnership with World Snooker and to be able to tap into the growing global snooker fanbase.

“We were able to reach millions of spectators around the world as part of our sponsorship of the BetVictor English Open, and when the opportunity came to expand our partnership it was a no brainer,” added Scarrott.

Tickets for the BetVictor Northern Ireland Open and BetVictor Scottish Open are on sale now and start at just £10. For ticket details visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets