36th Annual BEF Junior Nationals

Samm Diep & Sofia Mast @ 2024 Junior National Championships

The 36th Annual BEF Junior National Championships wrapped up July 13th. As the former Executive Director for the Billiard Education Foundation, I am thrilled to be involved again, serving as a board member for the organization. Working with the youth in billiards is something that has always been extremely rewarding for me and I could not be more proud of how far we’ve come.

Sofia with all her medals

Most recently, I’ve had the great honor of working with Sofia Mast “The Pink Dagger” from Florida. It’s been such a joy to be a part of her journey and witnessing all her hard-earned success. Of the seven events she competed in, despite coming down with a cold, she earned five Golds, one Silver and one Bronze medal. She even captured a bronze medal in the inaugural professional Women’s HeyBall event! I’ve never seen so much heart from any player. She’s truly remarkable.

On September 2-8, I’m thrilled to once again be leading our U.S. Junior Team to the World Junior Championships. This year, in Hamilton, New Zealand. Let’s go, Team U.S.A.!!!

Our twelve U.S. representatives are:

18UB

Adrian Prasad

Eddie Vonderau 

Payne McBride

Hank Leinen