BILLIARD EDUCATION MAKING THE BREAK INTO SCHOOLS

BILLIARD EDUCATION MAKING THE BREAK INTO SCHOOLS Colorado Springs, Colorado - Over the last year, the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) has seen a rise in billiard interest with schools across the country. More students are participating in billiard physical education classes, math and science courses and after-school programs. With interest rising across the educational front, the BEF joined ranks with the Northwestern and Southwestern combined American Alliance of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) Convention this February in Reno, NV. In attendance were professional high school and college educators from across the western United States. "It's great to have billiards represented at the convention," said Dr. Jerry Ballew of Department of Health Ecology at the University of Reno. "This was an eye opener for a lot of people. The attitude, motivation and humor surrounding the billiard table was evident, and a lot of ideas were exchanged."
Physical education instructor Marci Davis from Del Compo High in Sacramento, CA was on hand to tell how she integrated billiards into her classroom. "The students learn to see the game develop on the table. They must visualize the balls in motion, calculate the risks of different shots and incorporate winning strategies. Many students who may not have been successful in other PE classes find a lot of success here." Ms. Davis, along with her partnering professional billiard instructor Bart Mahoney, have introduced over 700 students in four years to billiards as part their curriculum's lifetime sports program. School administrators and teachers alike call it an appropriate school program that enables and encourages students to discover new concepts, skills and abilities through a variety of movement experiences. The atmosphere is non-threatening and every student feels trying something new is safe, physically, emotionally and socially. Emphasis is placed on the development of movement skills, self-confidence and social skills. BEF President Tom Riccobene, Vice-President Tom Rossman and BCA Staff Liaison Carrie Benson joined the group. World Artistic Champion Rossman "wowed" the teachers with his artistic pool talents as he touted the game's benefits. In reference to the overall impact of the effort, Mr. Riccobene said, "These teachers have committed their life to teaching children. It is great to see their eyes light up when they realize billiards offers them a great teaching opportunity. The triangle partnership of educators, billiard instructors and industry, with the student at the center, is a strong one and we are thrilled to be a part of it." Please visit www.bca-pool.comto learn more about or become more involved in the junior billiard initiatives across the country.

Pool Balls and Billiard Balls at LOW PRICES!!!

About the Author:
Inside Pool Magazine publishes billiard news. Definitive Synergy creates pool and billiard management software.