News from the Editor's Chair
Now that the dust has settled a little it's time to get on with the business of running English Billiards. Not that this has been delayed; just another time wasting harangue put to bed. The decision to exclude the English Amateur Billiards Association from further involvement with the EASB came after a questionnaire canvassing their opinions on certain very important issues was circulated to the amateur billiards fraternity. A democratic attempt to elicit the view of those who represent the grass roots of the game was seen as an affront to those who purport to be its custodians. An overwhelming majority of replies to the questionnaire supported the view that the English Amateur Billiards Association should be independent and seek to be the governing body of the amateur sport in this country. There were many replies with many very useful points for consideration. The E.A.B.A. felt fully justified in putting out the questionnaire and is grateful to all those who gave valuable help and guidance on the important issues raised. At an E.A.B.A. meeting at Stoke-on-Trent on 19th January 2001 the committee fully concurred in the view that the only way to preserve the traditions of English Billiards, and safeguard against the erosion of amateur status was, once and for all, to take the game under its wing and keep it there. The die was cast. A proposition will be put to the Annual General Meeting of the Association “That from 7th April, 2001, the English Amateur Billiards Association will become an independent body.” In the meantime, work will progress on constitutional matters, finance and membership. Billiard players at all levels in this country can be assured that their interests will be fully taken care of by an Association that cares.
We are delighted to announce the inception of a new tournament at the end of this season. The "E.A.B.A. Whitworth Masters". The Trustees of the Whitworth Institute, Darley Dale, Derbyshire, have agreed to the staging of this prestigious event on their premises. The tournament will take place on the 3rd week-end in April, the field will consist of invited entries from top players in this country and players from overseas. This initiative is seen as another step in expanding the international connection and further fortifying the structure of amateur billiards in this country. The Trustees of Whitworth Institute have donated a magnificent trophy and wholeheartedly support this venture. The E.A.B.A. appreciates the generosity of the Trustees and is delighted to take a tournament to a part of the world which is steeped in billiards history.
As well as providing for the upper echelons of the billiards fraternity, next season there will be a handicap tournament for those many players who month after month just miss the prize money on the Amateur Billiards Circuit. This type of tournament is long overdue and will, I'm sure, create strong interest. Anyone wishing to give any advice on the staging of a handicap tournaments are invited to write to the Editor so that we can got this underway without delay.
Finally, at the start of next season there will be a money raising initiative through the E.A.B.A. and intended for the interest of players. A "two hundred club" will start at the beginning of the season with membership being sought immediately. The idea for this project was mooted by several of our entrepreneurial supporters. As well as raising funds for the Association it will create a bit of excitement and interest for those who wish to partake. No doubt a member of the committee will be approaching you shortly to capture your support.