The World Ladies Billiards and Snooker Association (WLBSA) has become World Ladies Billiards and Snooker (WLBS) after becoming a subsidiary company of the WPBSA.
As part of a rebrand the WLBS is looking to restructure ladies snooker to ensure events and governance falls in line with WPBSA processes.
The WLBS is looking to develop its events into a global calendar and is looking to work with National Governing Bodies to provide a fuller calendar of events and give opportunity for a fair rankings system for female players across the globe.
The former WLBSA board all retain their positions within WLBS, joined by WPBSA vice chairman Nigel Mawer who will be responsible for Discipline and Governance. WPBSA chairman and World Snooker director Jason Ferguson will also assist the board in an advisory role.
WLBS Board members:
President: Mandy Fisher
Vice President and Sports Development Director: Sharon Kaur
Company Secretary: Vicky Shirley
Marketing Director: Diana Schuler
Finance Director/Tournament Director: Clive Brown
Discipline and Governance: Nigel Mawer
Advisor to the board: Jason Ferguson
The WLBS board is currently working on development plans to increase female uptake of participation, refereeing and coaching.
WLBS President Mandy Fisher said: “I am looking forward to a bright future for Ladies Billiards & Snooker. These are two of the few sports where gender is no barrier and there is no reason why women can’t compete at the highest level, alongside men.”
WPBSA Chairman Jason Ferguson said: “There should be no boundaries to participate in sport. As Snooker’s World Governing Body we have a responsibility to provide opportunity for all. There is a demand for ladies snooker and there is no reason why ladies can’t compete at the highest standard. I am delighted to see this latest development coming together.”
The WLBS is looking to launch its new calendar for the 2016/17 season at the World Championship in Sheffield in April 2016. More information on 2015/16 events can be found at www.wlbsl.com