Thanks to a donation from Smhart Security, two Kouga 8 Ball Pool players, Caiden Seejiram and Ruan Jackson, have been selected to represent the u/18 Eastern Cape pool team at the 8 Ball National Championship from July 12 to 19 in Potchefstroom.
Chairperson, Crystal Hoffstaetter, said that Kouga 8 Ball is a non-profit organisation dedicated to growing the sport of 8 Ball Pool across all age groups in their community.
She said that they proudly support Juniors, Ladies, Seniors, and Masters, providing a space for passion, discipline, and fun.
Hoffstaetter said that their junior players mean the world to their club.
She added that their involvement in the Kouga 8 Ball Pool is more than just about competition; it is about building passion, purpose, and pride.
“For these young players, the league offers a positive outlet, a safe space to grow, and a chance to dream big,” said Hoffstaetter.
“Our junior players are especially close to our hearts. The league gives them something positive to strive for and keeps them off the streets.”
Hoffstaetter said that each year, their juniors work incredibly hard to earn the opportunity to participate in pre-trials for the 8 Ball Pool nationals.
She said that making it to the national stage is not just about skill, it’s about commitment, discipline, and representing their province and hometown with honour.
“By giving them something to look forward to, the sport keeps them focused, off the streets, and on a path of growth and achievement. We are proud of every step they take on this journey,” said Hoffstaetter.
She said that as an NPO, they rely on annual contributions from each of their players to sustain their operations.
However, Hoffstaetter said that they cannot succeed through these efforts alone.
As a result, she said that they are continuously seeking new members, supporters, and sponsors to help further their mission.
Thankfully, the two players were fortunate enough to receive a generous donation from the local security company, Smhart Security, recently.
Seejiram said that he is excited to be a part of the u/18 team, as representing his province is a real honour.
“I’m excited to work with my teammates to push ourselves to new levels and make the Eastern Cape proud,” said Seejiram.
He further said that he is very thankful for all the sponsorships he has received thus far.
Jackson said that being chosen to attend the nationals is a huge honour and that he is truly grateful for the opportunity.
“Even though I have not gone to the nationals yet, just being selected means the world to me. It’s a chance to grow, represent myself with pride, and be part of something bigger than myself,” said Jackson.
He said that he is excited, motivated, and ready to give the national games his all.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me with positivity and belief, and a special thank you to the sponsors who help make opportunities like this possible. I’ll carry your support with me every step of the way,” said Jackson.
For more information or to support Kouga 8 Ball, contact Crystal Hoffstaetter at 073 214 6053.