Snooker: Youngsters on cue with academy

Snooker management company 110sport have launched a junior snooker academy scheme to cover Ireland and Scotland under the stewardship of 1979 world champion Terry Griffiths.

The Welshman, who is director of coaching with 110sport, helped launched a similar scheme for young players in his native country last year.

Now Griffiths is aiming to transfer the success of that venture into the other Celtic countries.

Griffiths said: ‘‘Players take up the game at ever-younger ages and it is vital that they have playing opportunities, coaching and training.

‘‘I am particularly pleased that 110sport have added their total support to the Academy structure.’’

Another former world champion Stephen Hendry offered his backing to the new scheme.

Hendry said: ‘‘It doesn’t matter what God-given talents you may have as a snooker player, or a sportsman, everyone has flaws and faults.

‘‘There is always a need for good coaching, and the 110sport initiative will guarantee that.’’