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The SVB Junior Open is set to return to the World Nineball Tour, bringing young talent to the prestigious US Open Pool Championship in Atlantic City, USA, on August 22-23. This year, the event promises a thrilling competition with a substantial prize fund of $10,000, open to all juniors aged 17 and under.

Matchroom, the event organizer, has shown unwavering commitment to fostering the next generation of pool players. Since its inception in 2022, the SVB Junior Open has become a cornerstone of Matchroom’s efforts to nurture young talent, marking its place as the fourth junior tournament on the 2024 World Nineball Tour. Named after five-time US Open Champion Shane Van Boening, this tournament is designed to give young players a chance to shine.

The competition will feature a 32-player double elimination format, similar to the JS Junior Open and the Fillers Junior Open. Entry costs $100, which will be refunded after the event, provided participants complete their matches. This ensures that every participant gets the opportunity to compete in a professional setting without a financial burden.

Shane Van Boening, the tournament’s namesake, expressed his excitement about the event’s growth. “I am excited to see the SVB Junior Open continue to grow and provide a platform for young players to showcase their talents,” said Van Boening. “It’s important to support the next generation of players and give them opportunities to compete and learn in a professional environment.”

Adding to the event’s prestige, Onboard Sportswear will provide a custom SVB Junior Open jersey to all participants, ensuring they look and feel like pros as they compete in the same arena as the US Open Pool Championship at Harrah’s Resort Casino.

Last year’s event was a spectacular display of young talent, with Lazaro Martinez emerging victorious over Estonian prodigy Karl Gnadeberg in a nail-biting 9-7 final. This year, young cueists can expect a similarly exhilarating competition, with the final set to be live-streamed on Matchroom Pool’s social media pages and broadcast on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, DAZN in the USA and Brazil, and various networks worldwide.

While juniors competing in the SVB Junior Open will not be eligible for the main US Open Pool Championship due to scheduling conflicts, they will receive a guest pass and three additional tickets for the days they compete. This allows them to witness the world’s best players in action, providing a unique learning experience.

The SVB Junior Open is more than just a tournament; it’s an opportunity for young players to grow, learn, and be inspired by the sport’s finest. As the event approaches, excitement builds for another unforgettable showcase of rising stars in the world of pool.

Introduction: A Landmark Deal in Sports Industry

In a groundbreaking move, Matchroom Sport has forged a significant global partnership with Pitch International, a leading sports marketing agency. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the sports industry, promising a new era of collaboration and innovation. Let’s delve deeper into this historic agreement and its implications for the world of sports.

1. The Genesis of Matchroom and Pitch International

1.1 Matchroom Sport: A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1982, Matchroom Sport has emerged as a stalwart in sports promotion, boasting over 600 event days annually and a vast library of sports content. From its humble beginnings in a snooker hall in Romford, Essex, Matchroom has grown into a global powerhouse, revolutionizing sports promotion across various disciplines.

1.2 Pitch International: Pioneers in Sports Marketing

Established in 2004 by Paul McGrath and Jon Owen, Pitch International has garnered acclaim for its management of global media rights and delivery of sports events. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Pitch International has carved a niche for itself in the competitive world of sports marketing.

2. The Strategic Alliance

2.1 Futureproofing Matchroom’s Position

The partnership between Matchroom and Pitch International aims to futureproof Matchroom’s position as a global leader in sports promotion. By leveraging each other’s strengths, the two entities seek to explore new avenues for growth and expansion.

2.2 Collaborative Endeavors

Central to the alliance is the collaboration on international media rights, major sports events, and sponsorships across Matchroom Group’s diverse portfolio. This synergy is poised to create unparalleled opportunities for both entities and enhance their global footprint.

3. Key Stakeholders’ Perspectives

3.1 Eddie Hearn: Championing Growth

Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn, expresses his excitement about the partnership, emphasizing its potential to unlock new milestones and enhance Matchroom’s reputation as market leaders.

3.2 Barry Hearn OBE: A Momentous Occasion

Matchroom Sport President, Barry Hearn OBE, lauds the partnership as a transformative moment for the company, propelling it to greater heights of success and innovation.

3.3 Oliver Slipper: Envisioning Success

Pitch International Executive Chairman, Oliver Slipper, highlights the mutual benefits of the partnership, envisioning new sports events and global expansion for both entities.

4. Conclusion: A New Chapter in Sports Marketing

The alliance between Matchroom Group and Pitch International signifies a paradigm shift in the sports industry. As these two titans join forces, the stage is set for unprecedented collaboration, innovation, and growth.

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In the realm of Group A in the 2024 World Juniors, Canada swiftly seized an early advantage and eyes the prospect of surging ahead of Sweden in the overall standings come Friday.

The Canadians boast a substantial goal differential of 13 as they stride into this encounter, spurred by a resounding 10-0 triumph over Latvia on the second day. Macklin Celebrini notched a goal and contributed four assists for Canada in that matchup, complemented by the dual prowess of Conor Geekie and Carson Rehkopf, who each registered two goals.

Sweden, in a parallel feat, vanquished Latvia in a preceding fixture, with Vancouver Canucks prospect Jonathan Lekkerimaki netting twice in their commanding 6-0 victory. Filip Bystedt mirrored this feat with a brace of goals, while Anton Wahlberg and Felix Unger Sorum added one goal each. In a subsequent bout against Germany, Sweden secured a 5-0 triumph, led by Otto Stenberg’s hat trick, resulting in an 11-goal differential.

Canada pursues its third consecutive gold medal at the World Juniors and the fifth since 2018, accumulating a total of 20 golds since 1982. In contrast, Sweden, bereft of a gold victory since 2012 and without a medal since 2022, lingered in fourth place in the recent tournament.

Detailed information regarding the Canada vs. Sweden matchup in the World Juniors, encompassing start time, TV schedule, and streaming details, is elucidated below.

How to Watch the Canada vs Sweden today?

• Event: 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship
• Game: Sweden vs Canada
• Group: A
• Date: Friday, Dec. 29, 2023
• Time: 1:30 a.m. ET, 19:30 (Local Time)
• Location: Scandinavium in Gothenburg, Sweden
• TV channels: TSN 1/3/4 (Canada) | NHL Network (United States)
• Live stream: TSN app (Canada) | Fubo (United States)

Canadian viewers can witness the spectacle on TSN and stream the game via the TSN app.

Guiding the TSN coverage will be Gord Miller and Mike Johnson, while James Duthie (host), Bob McKenzie (Hockey Insider), and Cheryl Pounder (analyst) will preside over intermissions.

LIVESTREAM: Watch the 2024 World Juniors Sweden vs Canada Game (Grab your free trial now!)

For fans in the United States eager to catch the action, the NHL Network serves as the broadcast platform, and the game is available for streaming on Fubo.

Starting time for Canada vs Sweden

• Date: Friday, Dec. 29
• Time: 1:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. CET)

The puck is set to descend at 1:30 p.m. ET within the confines of Scandinavium in Gothenburg, Sweden.

This marks the third outing for both squads at the 2024 World Juniors, commencing on Tuesday, December 26. Canada has emerged triumphant in both encounters, amassing six points in Group A, mirroring the success of Sweden in their respective fixtures.

The 2024 World Juniors in Group B witness the United States engage in a clash with Czechia today.

In the group standings, the USA finds themselves knotted with Slovakia, having secured two triumphs in as many initial matches of the World Juniors event. Commencing with a victory over Norway, the United States sustained their flawless record by overwhelming Switzerland yesterday, securing an impressive 11-3 triumph.

Gavin Brindley and Jimmy Snuggerud emerge as the primary goal contributors for the American side, each tallying four goals in the initial two encounters leading up to the showdown against the Czechs. Simultaneously, Cutter Gauthier and Frank Nazar have facilitated five assists each in the pair of games so far.

Czechia’s journey in the tournament reflects one win and one loss. The initial game saw Slovakia dealing Czechia a 5-2 defeat, yet the Czechs retaliated emphatically with an 8-1 dismantling of Latvia. Jiri Kulich and Eduard Sale both achieved hat tricks in the decisive win over the Latvian squad.

A noteworthy aspect is the Czech team’s relatively rested state compared to their American counterparts, having enjoyed a day off on Thursday.

How to watch the USA vs Czechia game:

• Event: 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship
• Game: Czech vs USA
• Group: B
• Date: Friday, Dec. 29, 2023
• Time: 11:00 a.m. ET, 17:00 (Local Time)
• Location: Frölundaborgs isstadion (Gothenburg)
• Television Channels: TSN (Canada), NHL Network (United States)
• Streaming Services: TSN app (Canada), Fubo (United States)

LIVESTREAM: Watch the 2024 World Juniors USA vs Czechia Game (grab your free trial now!)

The broadcast of USA vs. Czechia will be available on TSN in Canada and NHL Network in the U.S. Additionally, viewers can opt for streaming options through the TSN app in Canada and Fubo in the U.S.

Commencing at 11 a.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 28, the USA vs. Czechia encounter epitomizes the pinnacle of the World Juniors event.

It’s pertinent to note that this year’s tournament unfolds in the scenic city of Gothenburg, Sweden.

Are you a pool enthusiast looking for the hottest billiards event in 2023? Look no further! The International Open Pool 2023 is set to take place at the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel in Norfolk, Virginia, from October 30 to November 4. With a spectacular lineup of events and top-notch players from around the world, this year’s International Open promises to be an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to know about this exciting tournament.

2023 International Open Details

• Dates: October 30-November 4, 2023
• Start Time: 11:00 am EDT (All Days)
• Location: Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
• Discounted Hotel Rate: $122 plus tax for a single or double
• Diamond Pool Tables, Simonis Cloth, Aramith Balls and Outsville Accu-Rack
• TV Arena Seat Reservations available
• Live Scoring: digitalpool.com
• Live Stream: Watch from anywhere!

The 2023 International Open is a premier billiards event that gathers top players from around the globe. It features three main categories: the 9-Ball Open, the 10-Ball Invitational: Diamond Big Foot Challenge, and the Junior Division. In addition to these, there will be various special competitions to keep the crowd entertained and allow more players to earn some serious cash.

9-Ball Open

The 9-Ball Open is one of the main attractions of the International Open. With a $500 entry fee and $50,000 in added prize money, this 128-player 9-Ball competition promises intense action and fierce competition. The format includes double elimination and a race to 10, with a significant purse of $114,000 up for grabs.

10-Ball Invitational: Diamond Big Foot Challenge

For fans of 10-Ball, the Diamond Big Foot Challenge is a must-see event. Sixteen of the best players will compete on a 10-foot Diamond pool table for a chance to win the $8,000 first prize. With a single elimination format and race to 10, this event is sure to showcase exceptional skill and precision.

Junior Division

The Junior Division is an integral part of the International Open. Organized by Ra Hanna of On The Wire Creative Media, this event features 16 Junior Men and 8 Junior Women competing in a double elimination format with a race to 9. It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the next generation of professional pool players in action.

Venue

The Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel in Norfolk, Virginia, serves as the perfect setting for this prestigious tournament. The venue offers raised reserved seating for great viewing, with large TV monitors above every pool table displaying players’ names and scores. The combination of a world-class tournament and an exquisite venue ensures a memorable experience for all attendees.

Vendors

A diverse array of vendors will be present at the event, offering everything from pool equipment to memorabilia. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore and purchase the latest and greatest in the world of billiards.

Sheraton Hotel Lodging

If you plan to attend the International Open, the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel is offering discounted rates of $122 per night plus tax for contestants, vendors, volunteers, and spectators. Given the rising costs of hotel accommodations, this deal provides excellent value for attendees.

How to Enter as a Contestant

Contestants have multiple options for paying their entry fee, including online payments, check or money order, and Zelle transfers. It’s essential to secure your spot in the tournament promptly.

Reserve Your Hotel Room

To take advantage of the discounted hotel rate at the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, make your reservations early. Hotel rooms are in high demand, so securing your stay is crucial.

Schedule

The International Open features a packed schedule, with events running from October 30 to November 4. Be sure to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on specific event dates and times.

• 10-BALL: October 30-November 1, 2023 (3 days, Mon-Wed)
• 9-BALL: October 30-November 4, 2023 (6 days, Mon-Sat)
• JUNIORS: November 2-4, 2023 (3 days, Thu-Sat)

Key Players

The 2023 International Open boasts a stellar lineup of players, including past champions and rising stars. Keep an eye on Jayson Shaw, Chang Jung-Lin, Albin Ouschan, Niels Feijen, Fedor Gorst, and many others as they battle for glory in this prestigious event.

Live Streaming

For those unable to attend the event in person, live streaming will be available for all thirteen pool tables. Large monitors above each table will display players’ names and current scores, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.

Buy Spectator Tickets

Spectator tickets go on sale on May 16, 2023. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a casual observer, this is your chance to witness the world’s best pool players in action.

Conclusion

The International Open Pool 2023 is a must-attend event for billiards enthusiasts. With a variety of competitions, top-class players, and a stunning venue, it promises a week of thrilling action and memorable moments. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this extraordinary billiards spectacle.

For more information and to stay updated on the latest developments, visit the Official International Open Website.

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