Clive Thabo Dube
Sports Reporter
THE Bulawayo Provincial Pool Association (BPPA) has aired its sentiments over the stigmatization of the game of pool being a sport for ‘drunkards’ stating that alcohol is detrimental to a person’s well being and do not encourage anyone to indulge in drug and substance abuse.
Nowadays with any sport in this era, mental health cases have astronomically risen and pool being a sport of estimation, those partaking may find themselves turning to a catalyst to calm their nerves in the competitive sport as many in the sporting circles go through a lot of anxiety and stress due to the desire to excel.
Dating back to the 1970’s and 80’s, billiard players would find themselves sipping on pints and smoking inside the snooker hall which has led to the stigmatization of the sport to be one of drunkards and smokers.
The BPPA, an affiliate of Zimbabwe Pool Association (ZIPA) said It is prudent to note that the sponsors of the association are in the manufacturing and distribution of alcohol.
“Our biggest sponsors are in the beverage industry but that does not make pool a sport for drunkards. We actually have pastor’s within our midst and even school going teenagers are coming in to join various academies. In this sport code we also continuously conscientize the youth about drug and substance abuse.” Said the BPPA marketing and publicity officer Osbornewells Dziko.
Dziko said the game which most consider to be leisurely played offers great scholarship opportunities to young players who play professionally and would want to further their studies.
“Pool also enhances chances for pupils to earn sponsorships from the pool fraternity and as BPPA we are saying no to drugs. We do not encourage such within our pool circles by making sure our players especially the young players desist all forms of intoxications. This is why when we have youth tournaments we hold them at alcohol free arenas/zones like Shooters,” he said.
Paul ‘Macheso’ Mtizo described as one of the true greats in the pool circles in Bulawayo said: ” We have put strict measures, no more drugs in the pool arena. If you come drunk, no game and even dress codes have changed from dropping shorts to formal wear. We have also worked on venues not to be on bars. We are halfway in establishing venues outside bars so that families can come and enjoy the game.
Meanwhile, the BPPA Mombe/ Inkomo tournament precipitated the ‘Mutare affair’ as the top four teams (Nkulumane PC, Entumbane, Exchange Pool Club, and Queens Academy) in the just ended tournament will represent Bulawayo in Mutare. Bulawayo Elders, UBH and Expandables will join in this weekend.
The association will then hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday 18th March, 2023 which will see the reviewing and amendment of the constitution.