Growing the Game in Colorado: Highlights from the Third Annual Kidz Klinik

Photographer: Russ Green

On Sunday, April 13th, 2025, Felt Billiards in Englewood, Colorado hosted another incredible juniors billiard clinic, welcoming roughly 30 young players and their families for a fun-filled day of learning, challenges, and camaraderie.  

Led by Felt’s house pro Samm Diep, this annual community event attracted participants aged 8 to 18, drawing participants from across the state and even as far as Casper, Wyoming. 

Young players visited any of the six learning stations or four challenge shot tables, earning egg prizes filled with tickets. At the end, they  traded their tickets for any of the amazing donated prizes, ranging from 5 to 250 tickets. The grand prize of a 52” Action cue and case was won by an estatic 14yo Giancarlos, who visited all ten tables several times asking for more challenges in an effort to win enough tickets for the prize. 

This clinic would not have been possible without the support of an incredible team of volunteers. A huge thank-you to everyone who attended, managed stations, and helped spread the word:  

Photographer: Russ Green

Volunteers: PBIA certified instructors: Matt Wulfert, Ron Cox, Bobby Neues, Jeremiah Gage, Top players: Chris McDaniel, Chris Honeman, and Zach Bryan, from the various junior league members: Ernie Castillo, D’von, Duke Marion, Chris Grounds, Connie Cofell, Bernie Jene, and Bob Hale. 

Sponsors: PoolDawg.com, Kim Young (Dragon Billiards), Steve Sherman, Jim Lareau (Break Shot Billiards). 

With another successful Kidz Klinik in the books, we can’t wait to see these young players continue to grow, compete, and fall in love with the sport. See you all at next year’s event!

Samm is a Master-certified instructor through the PBIA (Professional Billiard Instructors Association) and ACS (American Cue Sports). As the National Juniors Team USA coach and the 2024 PBIA Instructor of the Year, she brings two decades of experience working with players of all ages and skill levels. She offers both individual and group instruction, available in-person and remotely.

Felt Billiards is Colorado’s premier billiards destination, offering a top-tier playing experience for players of all skill levels. Located in Englewood, CO, Felt combines a welcoming atmosphere with professional-grade tables, exceptional service, and a vibrant community of players. Whether you’re here to compete, learn, or simply enjoy a night out, Felt delivers a best-in-class billiards and bar experience with great drinks, delicious food, and an unmatched passion for the game.



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