Next weekend Bear Down Tournaments will be hosting the second annual Bear Down Billiards Pool Tournament at the University of Arizona Student Recreation Center on Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22. This two-day event is designed to bring students together in a competitive yet enjoyable environment.

The single elimination bracket tournament will allow participants to showcase their billiard skills, with a chance to win prizes valued at up to $100 provided by Raising Cane’s. There is no need to worry if you aren’t an experienced pool player! You are still welcome to participate in the tournament regardless of your skill level, as students of all abilities are welcome whether you are a beginner or an experienced player.

“We wanted to provide a fun experience that’s just free and open to everybody,” said Eric Holt, the runner-up from last year’s tournament and co-organizer for this year’s tournament. “Our goal is to provide people with a fun time and experience.”

The qualifying rounds will take place on the first day of the tournament, followed by the more competitive final rounds on the second day of the tournament. The tournament will also be streamed on Twitch, for those who are interested in viewing the tournament but are unable to attend.

“We will have cameras on the different pool tables,” said Kevin Le, co-organizer for the upcoming tournament. “We will also have our own commentators.”

With already more than 60 people signed up, Holt and Le have put together a staff of over 18 people, to make sure the tournament can operate and run smoothly. Staff members will help set up/tear down the event, referee games, organize brackets and most importantly manage the floor.

“The great host Eric Holt asked me to be a referee his year, and I couldn’t turn down his request,” said TJ Smith, one of the referees for this year’s tournament. “I hope to keep every game fair, and I want everyone to have fun.”

Aside from the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and potentially win prizes, Raising Cane’s will be providing free food for both participants and audience members. This means that regardless of whether you are participating or watching, you will be able to enjoy chicken fingers, chips and soda.

Holt was thrilled with Cane’s eagerness to hop on and sponsor the event.

“They [Raising Cane’s] are super community-based,” Holt said. “They wanted to help bring our idea to life.”

Emily Major, one of the staff members who will be managing the bracket, shared her excitement. “I’m very excited to see the turnout and how everything pans out,” Major said.

To learn more about the tournament, you can visit Bear Down Tournaments on Instagram.

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