Durban played host to the All Africa Cue Sports Championships, bringing together players from across Africa, with Sessions players at the centre of it all.
Durban, South Africa (18 February 2026) – Cue sports may not always grab mainstream headlines in South Africa. However, the recent All Africa Cue Sports Championships that were held in Durban are changing the narrative.
According to Sessions Billiard Club founder and co-owner Craig Bouwer, the atmosphere was electric. With players from across the continent descending on Durban, the tournament felt like a celebration of African talent.
“It was fantastic. To see so many players representing their countries, competing at that level, it was a lot of proud moments.”
Sessions players were heavily represented in Team South Africa, a reflection Craig believes, is of access and community.
While there is talent across the country, particularly in the Western Cape, he says what sets Sessions apart is its investment in world-class equipment and grassroots development.
“My business strategy has always been to provide a really nice playing experience that’s in line with world standards,” he explains. “Not to make a quick buck with cheap equipment. We’ve built a welcoming community, with strong leagues that allow players to compete regularly and level up.”
That access to high-level tables and structured competition makes a difference. Craig argues that while black ball remains popular and accessible in many clubs, players who want to compete internationally need exposure to bigger tables and professional conditions. Without that, many talented players stagnate before reaching their full potential.
On a personal level, Craig reached the Last 16 in the Heyball division. But it was his defeat that became one of the tournament’s most powerful stories.
He lost to a Zimbabwean player named Blessing.
“He was incredible. An absolute gentleman and a massive, massive talent.”
Blessing went on to win the All Africa title. What made the victory more remarkable for Blessing was that he did not have regular access to Heyball tables, the very equipment Craig believes is essential for elite performance.
He chose to support his former opponent, watching his matches and connecting with him and his management. So impressed was he that Sessions will now sponsor and support Blessing’s cue sports journey.
“I was just so impressed with his natural ability. It just shows the raw talent and grit and desire for these players.”
The championships also saw a standout performance from Elzette Koen, who claimed both the Ladies 10-Ball and Heyball All Africa titles. Craig describes her as a true professional and a powerful ambassador for the sport.
For Craig, the focus now shifts to building on that progress by investing in players, improving access to world-class equipment, and ensuring that more players can compete and win on the African stage.
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