WPBSA Supports Snooker Development in Saudi Arabia

Members of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) Development Team were in attendance at the recent Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters in Riyadh with the aim of building relationships with local organisations to promote the development of the sport in the country and leaving a lasting legacy.

WPBSA Vice-Chairman and Head of Integrity Nigel Mawer QPM was joined by Chris Hornby, Chief Operating Officer, Neil Tomkins, Player Relations Manager, and Head of Coaching and Training Development Chris Lovell to meet with Saudi Arabian Billiards and Snooker Federation President Dr Nasser Al-Shammari at the impressive Green Halls venue.

The team also met with Abdulaziz Al Thani, a board member from SABSA, at the Saudi Arabian Billiards and Snooker Federation Academy to discuss snooker development in the country and potential opportunities for the future.

There were also discussions with Riyadh season management behind the new Ronnie O’Sullivan Academy that will open in Riyadh this year, regarding ways in which WPBSA can support with industry suppliers as well as coaching and player development structures.

Nigel Mawer QPM, WPBSA Vice-Chairman, said: “It is an exciting opportunity for WPBSA to support the development of snooker and billiards in the region. It is important that the legacy left is not just the competitions themselves, but that we support growth in opportunities for all by assisting in developing coaches, officials, players and facilities to allow us to build a sustainable sport for all and ensure a lasting imprint in the country.”