ABOUT WCBS

WCBS HISTORY

We are Billiards. From our inception in 1990 to our ongoing pursuit of inclusion in the Olympic Games, our growth, authority and presence in the sporting world is uncontested.

August 30, 1990

The intended creation of WCBS is discussed at the first convention, in Bristol (GBR)

January 25, 1992

WCBS was officially formed at the inaugural General Assembly in Yverdon-les-Bains (SUI)

1995

Provisional membership of Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) granted

February 5, 1998

WCBS receives Outright Recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC)

1998

Participation in World Youth Games in Moscow (RUS) and Bangkok Asian Games (THA)

Late 1998

Accepted as full member of GAISF

August 2001

Akita marks first appearance at The World Games

2005

Ongoing participation in every iteration of The World Games

July 2023

The first WCBS Championship takes place in Ankara, Türkiye

WCBS empowers our member federations (UMB, WPA and IBSF), which represent the major disciplines of Billiards (Carom, Pool and Snooker) to each regulate, promote and develop their respective disciplines, while respecting the aims and ideals of our sport.

From federations to players to fans and across all walks of life, WCBS aims to unite the global Billiards community. Together we strive to inspire, excite and share the passion of Billiards as a sport to a new generation of players, while solidifying our global stature with inclusion into international multi-sport events.

Founded in 1992, WCBS is a member of ARISF and GAISF and is the only authority in Billiards Sports that is recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

BOARD
MEMBERS

Farouk El Barki

Farouk El Barki

President
Egypt
Ishaun Singh

Ishaun Singh

Vice President
South Africa
Mubarak<br>Al-Khayarin

Mubarak
Al-Khayarin

Vice President
Qatar
Diane Wild

Diane Wild

Secretary-General and Treasurer
Switzerland
James Leacy

James Leacy

Anti-Doping Director
Ireland
Fernando Requena

Fernando Requena

Media Director
Spain
Michael<br>Al-Khoury

Michael
Al-Khoury

Sports Director
Syria
Barry Jenner

Barry Jenner

Board Member
Australia
Jorgen Sandman

Jorgen Sandman

Board Member
Sweden

WCBS CONSTITUTION

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While retaining and respecting the complete autonomy and independence of each Member, the governing bodies for Carom, Pool and Snooker, in the administration and running of their disciplines, the aims and objectives of the WCBS are;

i) Sports Policy

To adopt a sports policy that is not in conflict with the IOC’s rules as set forth in the Olympic Charter, notably the adoption and implementation of the World Anti-Doping Code as well as the Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of Manipulation of Competitions.

ii) Values

To promote and develop Billiards Sports based on human rights, democratic principles and social values of universal fraternity and solidarity, through international administrations and competitions, irrespective of nationality, race, religion, gender or politics.

iii) Recognition and Inclusion

To develop a close liaison with the IOC (including the ARISF and the ASOIF), the GAISF, and all other MSE organisations, in order to obtain optimal recognition for Billiards Sports and the WCBS. To seek inclusion of Billiards Sports in the Olympic Games, the World Games and all other MSE including two or more continents, as well as to assist regional bodies for inclusion of Billiards Sports into regional MSE.

iv) Promotion

To promote Billiards Sports internationally, especially to the youth of the world.

v) Rules and Format

To standardize competitive rules, guidelines and format of play for Billiards Sports worldwide.

vi) Regional and National Bodies.

To advise and assist in the formation of Regional and National federations of Billiards Sports, and to promote the recognition of Billiards Sports by NOC’s whenever needed.

vii) Activities and Rules

To print and publicize the activities, events and rules of the WCBS and of other sports organizations connected to Billiards Sports.

viii) Public Relations

To promote and advertise all Billiards Sports via public sports authorities, NOC’s, press media, television networks, Internet, etc., and maintain a regular information network between the Members.

ix) Referees

To liaise with the Referees Association under each Member and maintain a register of qualified International Referees for deployment in WCBS and/or MSE events.

x) Education

To promote proper education of Instructors and Coaches through recognized academies in order to enhance the skill levels of play.

xi) WCBS Events

To develop WCBS events including disciplines from all Members, for men, women and youth in both individual and team formats.

xii) Anti-Doping and prevention of the manipulation of competitions

The WCBS recognizes the WADA Anti-Doping Code and is determined to do its outmost in order to keep Billiards Sports free from any and all performance-enhancing drugs. The WCBS Anti- Doping Rules are in accordance with the WADA Anti-Doping Code. The WCBS is determined to do its outmost in order to protect all competitions from the risk of manipulation and recognize the Code on the prevention of the manipulation of competitions.

xiii) Other Objectives

To do all other things necessary, that are incidental and conducive to the attainment and enhancement of the aims and objectives of the WCBS.

Download the full WCBS Constitution.

ATHLETES COUNCIL

The WCBS Athletes Council has representatives from the three Billiards Disciplines that make up WCBS.

CHAIRPERSONS

UMB: Martin Horn (Germany) – maexho@gmx.de

WPA: Oscar Dominguez (USA) – ozzymen03@gmail.com

IBSF: Dr. Muhammed Leysi (Turkey) – mleysi@bilardo.gov.tr

SAFEGUARDING

Safeguarding Policy for the World Confederation of Billiards Sports (WCBS) 2024-2025

Purpose

The World Confederation of Billiards Sports (WCBS) is committed to safeguarding the well-being, safety, and rights of all individuals involved in our activities. This policy establishes the principles and practices that ensure a safe and respectful environment, free from harm or abuse, for all participants, particularly children and adults at risk.

Scope

This policy applies to all WCBS-affiliated activities, including:
– International, regional, and local events sanctioned by WCBS
– Training sessions, workshops, and outreach programs
– Online and in-person interactions involving WCBS representatives

It is mandatory for all WCBS officials, staff, volunteers, coaches, players, and contractors to comply with this policy.

Key Principles

Zero Tolerance: Any form of abuse, harassment, or exploitation will not be tolerated.

Duty of Care: WCBS acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard participants from harm and ensure their welfare.

Inclusivity and Respect: Safeguarding measures are inclusive, respect diversity, and promote equality.

Confidentiality: Safeguarding concerns will be managed sensitively and confidentially, respecting the rights of all individuals involved.

Accountability: Everyone has a role in safeguarding, and all concerns will be addressed promptly and transparently.

Responsibilities

WCBS Leadership: Ensure the effective implementation of safeguarding policies and practices.

Safeguarding Officer: Appoint a qualified officer to oversee safeguarding practices, provide guidance, and handle concerns.

Event Organizers: Incorporate safeguarding protocols into event planning and execution.

Participants and Staff: Adhere to safeguarding guidelines and report concerns immediately.

Implementation

Education and Training: Deliver safeguarding training to all WCBS representatives and participants working with vulnerable groups.

Safe Recruitment: Conduct background checks for roles involving direct interaction with vulnerable individuals.

Reporting Mechanisms: Provide clear and accessible procedures for reporting safeguarding concerns.

Policy Awareness: Ensure all stakeholders are aware of and understand the safeguarding policy.

Review and Updates

The WCBS Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed annually and updated to align with evolving standards and legal requirements.