Adam Bleumink’s eight-ball journey started at 10 years old and now that he is 16 it will take him to England later this year. 76440 Picture: Kath Gannaway
By Russell Bennett and Kath Gannaway
ANOTHER chapter was added to the fascinating story of Healesville eight-ball billiards star Adam Bleumink recently when he was selected to jet off to England for the world titles in June.
Still just 16 years of age, Bleumink finished runner-up in the under-18 Australian national titles held on 21 and 22 January in Canberra.
He captained the seven-person Victorian team and has been named vice captain for the touring Australian team at the world titles.
Adam’s mum, Sue, said the local community would hold a fundraiser in the coming months to help him get to England’s big stage. “He has been waiting six years for this,” she said.
The Mail has been following Adam’s eight-ball ‘career’ since 2006, when he was one of three Yarra Valley players who represented Victoria in the junior national titles.
The team made it to the top 10 and in 2007 and at just 11 years old Adam became the under-12 eight-ball Australian champion.
He went through the tournament undefeated and took home a national sportsmanship award – the youngest player ever to do so.
He said his eight-ball interest started at 10-years-old, when he got his first table.
While it was clear he had some natural ability, Adam had to work hard to nurture it to compete at the elite level. He has played with a range of different clubs and is currently based at Dandenong’s Potters pool hall.
Adam’s father John and brother Jamie – keen social players – never shy away from challenging the youngster.
He said his biggest challenge when he gets to England in June will be keeping his emotions under control and staying focussed – giving absolutely nothing to his opponent. Though he only met his team mates this month, Adam said: “We all can’t wait to get over there.”
It will be Adam’s first overseas competition and his parents will also head over to support him.
The Healesville High School Year 11 student said his family has been a great support since he started playing by always coming along to watch him.
Adam said he doesn’t see his eight-ball journey as a career, “more of a hobby”.
But he has other competitions coming up this year – including the under-21 Snooker national titles in Perth.
