EPSB Leagues Focus | Rocco Amalou Triumphs in Junior Competition

Fresh off his victory at the EPSB Under-14 Championship stage one event in December at Breakers Snooker Club in Leicester, Rocco Amalou entered this season’s Chesterfield & District Snooker League’s Under-17’s competition with confidence and the event provided the perfect stage for him to showcase his growing talent.

This season marks Amalou’s debut in league play and he is already making waves as a promising future star. With several competition wins under his belt and a position in the top four of the player standings in his division, he is proving himself to be a formidable opponent. Despite his youth, Rocco consistently challenges older and more experienced players – cementing his reputation as one to watch in the world of snooker.

A competitive field, comprised mainly of young talents from the Saturday junior club at the Alfreton Snooker Club, participated in the fourth edition of the 17 & Under competition. Reintroduced to the league after lockdown in partnership with SightRight UK, the event which bears its name on the trophy.

This initiative aims to boost junior participation at the grassroots level, a mission that continues to gain traction. The effort is led by SightRight and WPBSA coach Alan Crownshaw, whose dedication is driving the growth and development of the next generation of snooker players.

Seeing the work Alan is doing with these youngsters and time he puts into their development is wonderful to see and encouraging for the future of the Chesterfield & District Snooker League and snooker in general.

With players ranging in age from 9 to 16 and showcasing a variety of skill levels, this handicap competition offered everyone a fair shot at success. True to its design, many matches went down to the wire, often culminating in dramatic black-ball finishes. The excitement was evident, with big smiles and a few celebratory fist pumps reflecting just how much the youngsters relished the challenge.

Last year’s finalist, Kai Hopkins, and the in-form Rocco Amalou ultimately emerged as the finalists. A supportive crowd stayed on to watch and cheer for the two talented players, who delivered an impressive display of snooker, particularly in their tactical safety play.

However, Amalou’s outstanding form proved decisive on the day as he defeated Kai 2-0 to claim the title. Along with the winner’s prize money, he also secured a coveted spot in the end-of-season Champion of Champions competition.

Congratulations to Rocco, Kai, and everyone who participated for making the event a memorable one!

Article by the Chesterfield Snooker League