Well, the self preservation thing you're referring to with the WPA is to keep the global structure of pool within the guidelines of the IOC. Once the structure falls apart, they lose the World Games, any chance at the Olympics and most importantly, all those countries who get government funding will lose their funding. A lot of players receive annual stipends out of that funding and much of the added prize money in several international events comes from that country's government funding. So we are talking about the potential collapse of international championship events, continental events and more. Just look at the WPA calendar. I wouldn't be surprised if it also puts the EuroTour at risk.
Interestingly, Matchroom has always been in a cooperative relationship with the WPA. It's not until their 9 ball tour announcment that they are suddenly considering the WPA an amateur organization. But we know that's not true, since it's been decades now that the IOC has allowed pro players to compete in the Olympic Games.
BCA dropped the ball on professional pool in North America. when they sold the BCA league to MG and then eliminated the BCA Open, and though the smoking ban and other happenings hurt pool in the United States, the BCA's alienation of professional pool didn't help.
Yes, today the BCA is an industry member organization. How can they be the representative of North American professional pool to the WPA? What do those industry members govern in professional pool? Billiard Congress of America doesn't govern professional pool at all. It's a club of industry members. This is where I'm confused, I guess.
That said, I did follow your suggestion a while back and contacted Shane Tyree, and his reply to me was brief, two sentences, as I recall, but at least he did take the time to reply—and timely, I might add.
A few days ago, I listened to a Window's Open podcast with Shane Tyree, Mike Panozzo, and Mike Molina. It was very, very eye-opening. I had no idea that Mr. Tyree's position was a voluntary with no compensation. As well, he answered each and every question posed to him, even when they were tough. He was sincere and honest. What's more, he even replied to my post on the podcast thread that the BCA was going to try to bring back the BCA Open tournament.
Everybody is so excited about the multiple events on the horizon by Matchroom and other promoters. Shane Van Boening said he has to pick and choose which tournament he can attend due to cost. Traveling to Europe and other corners of the world ain't cheap, and when you add in lodging fees, food, and other associated expenses of being on the road, well, the bills back home still gotta get paid. Those who pocket 16th place and under will barely make expenses or break even. Not too many players will win, place, and show each and every time in short races. The payouts today are the same as they were in the 1980s, but expenses have quadrupled.
I'd love to learn what the majority of the pro players think, really think in private, not on social media where they may not be candid and comfortable sharing their opinions for fear of upsetting an entity. I will remain in a wait-and-see mode at this juncture as a pool enthusiast and railbird.
