LAUNCESTON’S Matt Ryall recently qualified for a place in the England Under 18 pool team after a long weekend of trials held at the 147 Club in Leicester, and will represent his country internationally.

Ryall, 15, has been playing pool for Cornwall since the young age of 11 and is currently vice-captain of the under 18s team and also a member of the under 23 squad.

He started his pool career at the tender age of 10 playing in the Launceston and District League, firstly for Storm and then the White Horse.

He now currently plays for the Rydon Inn, Holsworthy, in the Launceston and District Pool League.

Ryall attends Launceston College and will be sitting his GCSEs in a couple of months, so has a very busy year ahead of him!

Reflecting on his achievements, Matt said: “I really enjoyed the trials which were held over two days, and although I was up against the best players in the country, I just played my natural game and didn’t let nerves get the better of me.

“Playing for England has always been an ambition of mine and I am really looking forward to travelling and representing the country against teams from as far afield as Australia, Malta and closer to home in Ireland, and hopefully winning our games.

“I get my practice in by playing in the weekly league and the two county teams I play for, but also practice on my table at home as much as possible for at least an hour a day and sometimes more if time permits. I will be taking my GCSEs this year so I need to fit my revision in too!”

Cornwall are always looking for aspiring pool players.

For anyone interested in doing so, please contact Louise (county secretary) on 07979 321323, and also if you are interested in promoting your business by sponsoring Ryall.