"We are proud to be involved with Junior Billiards," says BGCPPR Executive Director James Sullivan. "In partnership with the Billiard Congress of America, we have been given the opportunity to provide our kids with an activity that promotes sportsmanship, self-confidence and a positive use of leisure time."

Junior Billiards is a five-fold pilot program with the following goals: 1) provide club members with a structured activity that will promote social interaction, sportsmanship, fundamental skills and positive use of leisure time; 2) promote the sport of billiards; 3) provide resources (equipment, education and instruction) to the BGCPPR; 4) establish a partnership between the BGCPPR and the billiard industry; and 5) establish a national billiard program to be implemented in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Sports Initiative Program.

The BGCPPR, through its five branches, exists to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from economically disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. The BGCPPR has been serving youth of the community since 1888, 115 years. Through dozens of nationally recognized programs, children ages 7 through 18 receive character and leadership development; education and career exploration; health and life skills; art and cultural awareness; and sports, fitness and recreational opportunities. The Boys & Girls Club provides a safe place to learn and grow, o­ngoing relationships with caring professionals, and most of all, hope and opportunity.

The BCA, along with local and national BCA business members, has committed services and/or products to create a complete billiard facility for the Junior Billiards pilot program. Showcase Billiards (Westminster, CO), All Billiards (Colorado Springs, CO), D&R Industries/Championship Billiard Fabric (Lincolnwood, IL) and CueStix International (Lafayette, CO) donated a total of 11 beds of cloth for the Tutt and El Pomar Units. Cuestix International (Lafayette, CO), Backyards & Billiards, Inc. (Colorado Springs, CO), Fodor Billiards (Colorado Springs, CO) and the Billiard Congress of America (Colorado Springs, CO) donated cues, tips, instructional materials, posters and miscellaneous billiard accessories to complete the two units' billiard rooms for two local units. Dave Merrill of Cabin Fever Sports, Ltd. (Pueblo, CO) was the sole donator of his time and equipment, installing the new beds of cloth in both units.

"We are proud to provide this opportunity for the BCA to launch this pilot program and, best of all, our kids receive more quality programming from a long-term collaboration," said Mr. Sullivan.

"The Boys & Girls Clubs of America is o­ne of the top charities in the country, and the BCA is proud to join forces with local branches," said BCA President Skip Nemecek. "We hope to begin a national effort, to include over 3,100 clubs, in the next year. These clubs are always looking for ways to introduce activities that provide educational, social and physical benefits. Billiards will be a perfect match for the clubs."

If you would like to speak with a BCA representative, contact Ms. Carrie Benson by phone at 719.264.8300 or by email at carrie-benson@bca-pool.com.

Media Contact:

Amy Long

Director of Marketing & Business Development

marketing@bca-pool.com

719.264.8300 x 104

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