Colorado Springs, Colorado: The Billiard Congress of America (BCA) has announced plans to transfer the oversight and management of its junior programs, including the BCA Junior National Championship and qualifier series, to the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF). In addition, the BCA pledged to support the BEF's efforts with $50,000 in annual funding over the next three years.
“We believe that it is more appropriate for the BEF to concentrate on the development of junior players and programs, while we focus our efforts on industry-related pursuits,” said BCA CEO Rob Johnson. “These programs fit within the BEF's purpose and mission, and we're certain that the move will bring junior programs to a new level of success. We hope that the entire industry will support these new efforts by the BEF.”
“I think that the BCA has provided everyone—industry, current players, and new players—with a wonderful opportunity, and everyone gets to work on it,” stated BEF President Tom Riccobene. “It's for the kids, and that makes it a bit different. Teachers, kids, parents, businesses—anyone can help. And it's not been done until now. I'm very glad that the BCA recognized that the BEF is well-suited for this task, as we have always been a huge proponent of the junior programs.”
In addition to managing the various junior programs, the BEF will also continue to award education scholarships and work to place its Curriculum Guide in schools throughout the United States.
The Billiard Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity organization committed to furthering the standard of excellence and leadership within the billiard community by engaging in activities related to the education and cultural advancement of tomorrow's leaders.
For more information, please contact the BEF office by mail to PO Box 818, Lafayette, CO 80026; by phone to 303-926-1039; or by email to info@BilliardEducation.com.
