The Century Snooker Academy (CSA), located in the Nou Barris district of Barcelona, has established itself as a hub for snooker enthusiasts in Spain. Founded by Daan Leyssen, Aleix Melià, and Eric Ruiz, the facility officially opened on April 25, providing a specialized environment for a sport that emphasizes precision, technical control, and a distinct, introspective atmosphere compared to traditional billiards.
The Rise of Snooker in Barcelona
The establishment of the Century Snooker Academy marks a development for the local cue sports scene. While billiards often features a more social, high-energy environment, the founders of CSA emphasize that snooker requires a different level of focus. According to Daan Leyssen, a long-time player, the sport’s demands—which include strict control of the cue ball, the cue, and positioning—mirror the refined nature of tennis.
The academy features four full-sized snooker tables equipped with digital scoring systems. The interior design leans toward a minimalist aesthetic, characterized by stark, black walls intended to keep the focus entirely on the game.
Meet the Founders: A Collective Vision
The academy is the result of a partnership between three individuals who share a passion for the sport:
- Daan Leyssen: A player with 33 years of experience. Leyssen credits his father, a carom billiards player, with introducing him to cue sports. He has long been influenced by professional snooker player Ronnie O’Sullivan.
- Aleix Melià: A tax attorney who balances his professional career at Deloitte with his commitment to promoting snooker.
- Eric Ruiz: Bringing six years of experience to the trio, Ruiz serves as a founder of the academy.
The three partners handle all operational aspects of the facility, from seeking financing to providing coaching sessions. Their transition from casual players to academy owners reflects a growing interest in structured snooker training within the region.
Why Snooker Differs from Traditional Billiards
For those unfamiliar with the nuance of the sport, the founders distinguish snooker from other forms of billiards through its complexity. Unlike games that may prioritize speed or casual interaction, snooker is defined by:
- Introspection: The game is played in a quiet, focused environment, demanding high levels of concentration from participants.
- Technical Rigor: Success requires mastery over the cue ball and the ability to plan shots several moves ahead.
- Etiquette: Following professional standards, competitive play often involves formal attire, such as waistcoats and bow ties, reinforcing the "elegant" nature of the sport.
How to Access the Academy
The Century Snooker Academy is located in Nou Barris and serves as a point of convergence for players from various local clubs, including those from the Club Billar Monforte in La Sagrera. The academy manages its community engagement primarily through its Instagram profile, @centurysnookeracademybcn.
The founders continue to host internal tournaments to foster a competitive spirit among members. Notably, Daan Leyssen won the Lase Snooker championship held at the facility in early June, where he defeated co-founder Aleix Melià in the final match. As the academy grows, the team plans to further integrate the space into the Barcelona sports landscape by offering lessons and hosting regular league play.
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