Pros help raise funds for junior billiards

The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) held its annual "Challenge the Stars" fundraiser on May 12th during the 9th Annual Predator International 10-Ball Championship and BCA Pool League (BCAPL) National 8-Ball Championships in Las Vegas. Pros, amateurs and fans helped raise almost $5,300 to help academic scholarships, "Pool In School" and other junior billiard programs.

Among the pros that graciously donated their time to play on the 7' Diamond tables were champions like Rodney Morris, John Schmidt, Allison Fisher, Kelly Fisher, Jeanette Lee, Rafael Martinez, Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman, Kim Shaw, Jasmin Ouschan, Shawn Putnam, Charlie "Hillbilly" Bryant, Sarah Rousey, Adam Smith, Scott "The Shot" Smith, Dawn Hopkins, Angelina Paglia and Laura Smith. The challengers were from among the thousands of amateur league players and fans attending the championships.

Billiard enthusiast attending the benefit also participated in the silent auction and raffle made possible by the generous donations from almost 30 individuals and industry contributors. Included in the long list of donors is John Rousseau, PoolDawg.com, McDermott Cue Mfg, Viking Cue Mfg, Cuestix International, Chalkeys by Ken, Frank’s Center, Predator Products, OB Cues and RT9 Design to name a few. Diamond Billiard Products and BCAPL provided the pool tables and arena for the festivities.

A team of two dozen dedicated volunteers helped to make this event successful. Among the list of helpers are Tim Thompson, Billy Joe Stephenson, Turk Brown, Joanne Bostrom, Jane Clark, Keven Engelke, Brent Johnson, Alexis Brown, Dave Merrill, and many BCA Pool League referees. Dawn Hopkins, Melissa Herndon and John Leyman shared the task as Master of Ceremonies. A comprehensive list of all who came together to support the future of billiards through junior programs is available on the BEF website at www.BilliardEducation.org.