The game of billiards has a long and rich history, evolving from a lawn game similar to croquet and dating as far back as 1350.  In its many years it has evolved into three competitive sports  - snooker, pool and carom - all under the umbrella of billiard sports.

Play began outside using a ball and a crooked still.  This was later moved indoors to a wooden table covered with green cloth to simulate grass with a simple edge.  Balls were shoved rather than struck with a wooden stick called a 'mace'.

The cue was developed in the late 1600s.  For many shots the mace was too cumbersome so players turned it around to strike the handle with the ball.  The equipment became more and more sophisticated in the 1800s due to the industrial revolution and by 1850 the billiards had essentially evolved into its current form.

The three divisions of Billiards - Carambole, Pool and Snooker - are derived from the same game but have all developed separate identities, creating their own set of rules and governing bodies around the world.  All the divisions of Billiards Sports are now working together harmoniously for the future of the game and its continued expansion.

All disciplines have three pieces of basic equipment in common.  Each game is played on a table, with or without pockets, which is covered in cloth.   The thickness of the weave of this cloth 'nap' varies between disciplines.  Each discipline uses a cue which varies in length and different colored balls.  The skill lies in moving the balls around the table and points are scored by either potting the balls or deflecting them off as many edges as possible.

Billiard sports are played in over 100 countries around the world spanning five continents. The number of registered players is estimated at over 100 million. The sports are enjoyed by a global television audience made up of male and female, young and old viewers.

Billiard sports made their debut in the World Games in Akita in August 2001 and certainly made a lasting impression. Each year tournaments are held all over the world organized by the national governing bodies. Players from different countries also compete against each other in tournaments organized by their world governing bodies.

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