Billiard clubs in France shift focus toward leisure and youth recruitment

Billiard clubs in the Somme region of France are navigating demographic shifts by adjusting their organizational models and recruitment strategies.

The Pont-de-Metz billiard club has seen membership grow from approximately thirty to fifty members over the last few years. President François Genty noted a successful effort to diversify the club, including an increase in female players from one to fifteen. The club is currently focusing on attracting younger players to ensure long-term performance and skill development.

Meanwhile, the Billard Club de Rue is transitioning from a competitive focus to a leisure-oriented model. After previously hosting a prominent billiard school in the Somme, the club has seen a decline in young participants, which leadership attributes to the high level of patience required for the sport. Under the leadership of President Bruno Bosquet, the club has moved toward a leisure structure that allows members to practice French billiards through a simple membership card.