From Golf Greens to Snooker Tables: The Unexpected Rise of a New Sport Enthusiast
Sometimes, life takes the most unexpected turns. For Esther Ventura of Zaragoza, Spain, a simple decision to accept a golf course in 2023 sparked a chain of events that led her to develop into the second international snooker referee from Aragon. Her story is a testament to the power of chance encounters and the allure of a rapidly growing sport.
The Accidental Path to Snooker
Ventura’s journey began with a desire to revisit past hobbies, like American billiards. A golf course brought her into contact with Ana Meneses, an international snooker referee, and a friend named Quique, who introduced her to the world of snooker. “One day talking about golf we moved on to snooker and Ana told me she was an international referee and I told Quique to go to the club one day. And that’s how it is to this day,” Ventura explained.
Why Snooker’s Appeal is Growing
Snooker, often described as a more strategic and challenging cousin to billiards, is experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly in Spain and Zaragoza. The Free Ball club, for example, has doubled its membership in just two years, becoming the largest snooker organization in the country. The game’s difficulty is a key part of its attraction. “It hooks you with the difficulty, which provokes you and keeps pulling you back to attempt again,” Ventura notes.
A Sport for Everyone
One of the appealing aspects of snooker is its accessibility. It doesn’t require a specific physique or exceptional strength, making it a sport that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or condition. However, success in snooker demands patience, perseverance, and, crucially, concentration.
The Rise of Female Referees in Snooker
Ventura isn’t alone in breaking barriers within the sport. She is one of three women at the Free Ball club, and her recent qualification as an international referee adds to a growing team. In March 2026, Esther Ventura, Juan Pablo Martín, and Ángel Lafuente joined existing international referees Ana Meneses, Rafa Navarro, Juan Sahagún, and Nacho Enciso, bringing the total number of international referees at the club to seven.
From Player to Official: A New Perspective
Ventura’s transition from player to referee was a natural one. “I don’t grasp how to sit still, and to watch a match, I referee it,” she says. She finds the environment relaxing, enjoying the silence punctuated by the sound of the balls colliding and the ticking of the clock. She too recognizes the opportunity that refereeing provides: a pathway to participate in national and European competitions that might be more challenging to reach as a player.
The Role of the Snooker Referee
Being a snooker referee requires keen observation and control, ensuring the accurate placement of balls and fair play. While snooker is often considered a sport of honor, referees must remain vigilant.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Snooker
The growth of snooker in Zaragoza and beyond suggests a bright future for the sport. The increasing number of qualified referees, like Esther Ventura and her colleagues, will be crucial in supporting this expansion. The accessibility of the game, combined with its strategic depth, positions snooker for continued success and a wider audience.
Did you know?
Snooker originated in British India in the late 19th century, created by British Army officers stationed there.
FAQ
- What makes snooker different from billiards? Snooker is more strategic and complex than billiards, requiring players to pot balls in a specific order and often relying on tactical fouls.
- Is snooker a physically demanding sport? While it doesn’t require significant physical strength, snooker demands high levels of concentration, patience, and mental stamina.
- How is the Free Ball club contributing to the growth of snooker? The Free Ball club has doubled its membership in two years and is now the largest snooker organization in Spain, providing a hub for players and referees.
Interested in learning more about snooker or finding a local club? Explore the resources available through the European Billiards and Snooker Association (EBSA).
