The Helderberg Pool Union (HPU) and Pool4Change officially launched the Macassar Schools’ 8-Ball Pool League at False Bay Primary School last Thursday (26 March).

The initiative marks a significant shift for cue sports in the region. By moving the game from informal settings into structured classroom environments, organisers aim to provide a “safe haven” for local talent, protecting youth from the threats of drugs, alcohol and gangsterism.

The project has gained substantial institutional backing, earning official recognition from the Department of Basic Education as a formal extra-mural sports code.

Adiel Rhoda, HPU spokesperson, opened the ceremony. “This is about creating a safe space where the youth of Macassar and Firgrove can develop their skills and excel without the risks of negative exposure,” he told those in attendance.

Neville Davids of the South African Confederation of Cue Sport (SACCS) addressed historical misconceptions surrounding pool. For decades, the sport has been associated with pubs.

By bringing the sport into schools, Davids explained, “opportunities are limitless,” providing a secure platform that keeps children off the streets through constructive competition.

Desmond Engelbrecht, principal of False Bay Primary, expressed pride in his school being chosen as the league hub. He noted that hosting pool tables in the school hall benefits both learners and the broader community.

Pool4Change representatives Ritha Naidoo and Abdul Khalik Saville highlighted that the launch forms part of a national movement, with False Bay Primary now among the elite schools leading cue sports development in South Africa.

Dr Edgar Smith of the Macassar Sports Board expressed optimism about pool’s future as a sporting code in Macassar and congratulated organisers for investing in local youth.

Stuart Hainsworth of Boys Night Projects NPC made a crucial commitment during the event, pledging to sponsor learners who qualify for national championships once the league begins. This ensures financial barriers won’t prevent local talent from reaching the sport’s highest levels.

The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially launching a new era for Macassar’s young athletes.