Following exciting discussions and an initial proposal tabled earlier this year, the Ultimate Pool Group (UPG) and the English Pool Association (EPA) are delighted to announce that a contract has been signed between the two organisations which outlines a key partnership for the sport.

This formal collaboration is a blueprint that will benefit all levels and players of 8-ball pool in England, from the grassroots to the professional tier, securing a real opportunity for continued and sustainable growth and development. The motion was voted through and approved by EPA members at a recent national meeting.

Within the agreement includes sharing intellectual and technological resources, with the UPG supporting the modernisation of the EPA through the use of the Ultimate Pool App and a transition to digital memberships.

Barbara Taylor, Chairperson for the EPA said: “The English Pool Association are looking forward to a very bright future working together with Ultimate Pool to promote and elevate the game we love to new levels. With the inspiring opportunities this will create, there has never been a better time to be a pool player.”

Scott Ryan, Commercial Director for the UPG said: “Ultimate Pool are dedicated and passionate about supporting the development of the grassroots game, which includes the thousands of local league players that turn out for their sides each week and compete in club events.

Some of the finest players in the history of the sport have also emerged from the EPA’s structured pathway which helped them to realise their ambition of being an international or professional player.

Now that Ultimate Pool is officially recognised by the EPA as the sport’s professional body, this finalised collaboration aims to ensure that future generations of players have solid foundations to enjoy and flourish.”