Written
in 1998, the text below demonstrates how far ahead Mr. Frank Callan
was in his thinking. Thankfully snooker is at last embracing the
modern era with a whole range of innovations at many new tournaments
including, shot clocks, relaxed attire, themed music hosted by younger
referees and television commentators. A modern approach to entertainment
whilst maintaining snooker's core beliefs and principles. Encouraging
attacking play.
The
vast majority of major snooker tournaments operate to the same formula.
Lower
ranked professionals play off at the pre - televised stages in best
of seven and nine frame matches, for the right to challenge the
established or seeded players in the latter stages of events. As
tournaments progress the length of matches increases with the finals
often played over the greatest number of frames.
Although
the established model has stood snooker in good stead over the years,
like all sports, snooker has to evolve and consider new formats.
The game may need to adapt to make the sport more enjoyable and
entertaining for a wider cross section of the viewing and playing
public.
So
what can be done? What does the public - snookers customers really
want to see?
Crowds are drawn to the attacking, flair players, both in the arena
and whilst viewing on television. It is no coincidence that Alex
Higgins, Jimmy White and Ronnie O'Sullivan are amongst the most
popular players the game has ever seen.
Snooker
needs to recognise what the paying public wish to see - attacking
snooker, big breaks and the game played with excitement and adventure.
The
latest crop of professional players have taken the attacking side
of the game to new heights over the last ten years, but only within
the confines of the existing system. The days of long drawn out
tactical battles are rarely seen in the modern game, due to the
enhanced potting and break building skills of today's players. In
today's game, you must pot balls to survive.
So
how can snooker be presented as a product that meets existing requirements,
both for spectators and sponsors, whilst also reaching out for those
that find the current format tired and uninspiring?
Clearly
we are looking for a solution that encourages and rewards attacking
play, whilst also incorporating the existing elements of strategy,
safety and tactical awareness that many enjoy.
If
you have an interesting idea for a tournament format then we would
be interested to hear your thoughts.
Frank
Callan Suite - 282 Ribbleton Lane, Ribbleton, Preston, Lancashire,
England - PR1 5EB - tel.
+ 44 (0) 1772 702211 - info@fcsnooker.co.uk
Visit
the links below for further information>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
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