Yeovil Town FC Take To The Baize

Yeovil Town FC players took some time out from their pre-season preparations on Monday to try their hand on the baize at the Pot Black Snooker Club.

The Glovers are getting ready for their 2017/18 League Two opener against Luton Town on Saturday. However, nine first team players and manager Darren Way spent a well earned break on the snooker table.

The session was organised by WPBSA Club and Facilities Manager Bob Hill and aimed to advocate the importance of having an additional sporting pastime for professional athletes and the benefits that gives to their mental health. There was coaching on offer and a number of drills and challenges for the players to have a go at.

“Every professional sportsman needs an alternative to relieve the pressure. You see Ronnie O’Sullivan do it with running and it helps him deal with the stress of professional sport,” said Hill. “Today’s snooker session was all about showcasing the links that can be made between a professional football club and its local snooker club. Everyone has had a great time and this is something that will benefit the players and the snooker club. Manager Darren Way showed particular prowess on the snooker table!

“Professional footballers playing in the football league have a relentless season of more than 50 matches when you include cup games. Finding a sport like snooker to provide these players with a way to escape the pressures of the game, socialise and relax is ideal for them.

New signing Dan Alfei was among the players who attended and felt that snooker was a great way to spend some of his time off.

“We get a lot of downtime so this is a good, relaxing game to do after training; it’s competitive at the same time,” said the 25-year-old. “I will come down here during the season. I potted some good ones today. What I’ll take away is the advice on lining up the shot, and keeping down on the cue with your chin and chest”

The players have been offered membership of the Pot Black Snooker Club and Hill hopes the event can be replicated around the country.