By Elliott West
Introduction
Cast your minds back to 1994 to what is now an almost forgotten television programme. Shown on Wire TV, New Kids on the Baize was a groundbreaking programme that showcased some of the most talented junior players in snooker. Although now gathering dust in the vaults, this show presented by Steve Davis, gathered together faces, many of whom went on to become highly successful players.
The Format
This competition brought together some of the best under-16 players with the youngest being 13. Played over the best of three frames, the winner would get a chance to play Ronnie O’Sullivan, then an elder statesman at 18 years of age in an exhibition game. Ronnie was of course by that time UK champion, having won the title in 1993. Like the format of the Cockney Classic, the overall winner would get to play Steve Davis. The commentary came from Steve Davis and Ronnie O’Sullivan and referees included the likes of John Williams.
Young Blood
The show featured some of the players that went on to become big names in snooker. Some are still with us, these included a youthful Barry Hawkins and Stephen Maguire. The clip that I include with this piece is quite poignant because both of the players involved are sadly no longer with us, Paul Hunter and Lee Spick. Hunter tragically passed away from cancer in 2006, aged 27 and Spick from a liver-related disease in 2015, aged 34.
A Revamp
The show may now look dated with its low budget and graphics but it still presents an interesting concept. Roll forward to today and the show could be brought back and would be a great opportunity to open up and showcase the junior players that we have today. The amateur and junior circuit are crying out for publicity and this would be a great media vessel to make the viewing audience aware of the names out there and the sheer potential and natural talent that lies just beyond the professional circuit wall.
