2026 Empower Snooker Invitational – Tournament Report

The third staging of the Empower Snooker Invitational was held at Hornsby RSL Club, with fifteen women coming together for a weekend that once again highlighted the strength and spirit of women’s snooker in New South Wales.

Established to build participation among existing, returning and new female players, the Empower Snooker Invitational continues to provide an accessible and supportive tournament environment. A low entry fee, which included SBNSW membership, prizes and player gift packs, along with a relaxed dress code and handicap format, helped remove barriers while maintaining a strong competitive element.

One of the most encouraging aspects of this year’s event was the return of several players who first competed in 2025. Their improvement over the past twelve months was evident throughout the weekend. The tournament also welcomed new participants, including promising junior Sarah Wu, who is certainly one to watch for the future. Importantly, the event continues to be strengthened by a core group of regular players who create a welcoming, competitive and supportive environment for all involved.

Together, this balance of experience levels captures what the Empower Snooker Invitational is all about: opportunity, encouragement and connection.

Finals Day

Quarter finalists Monica Brettle, Sarah Wu, Wai Ho (Sharon) and Dianne Spring all performed well and played an important role in shaping the finals series. However, it was Krystal, Joey, Rhonda and Rachel who progressed to the semi finals after competitive matches across the board.

From there, Rhonda and Rachel concluded their campaigns as semi finalists following strong performances throughout the weekend, while Krystal and Joey advanced to contest the championship match.

The final proved a fitting conclusion to the tournament, going right down to the wire in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd gathered around the viewing windows.

Congratulations to Krystal, who claimed the 2026 Empower Snooker Invitational title and also recorded the highest break of the tournament. Her continued progress over recent years is a credit to her commitment to the game.

Runner up Joey delivered an outstanding performance across the weekend. Playing with composure and confidence, she has shown significant improvement and should be proud of her achievement.

In the repechage competition, Melissa Myles secured the win, with Jodie Wikeepa finishing runner up.

Acknowledgements

The Empower Snooker Invitational continues to be made possible through the support of valued partners, volunteers and the broader snooker community.

Sincere thanks go to Hornsby RSL and its supportive and engaged Snooker and Billiards community. From the Club’s sponsorship, hospitality and excellent playing conditions, to the Snooker and Billiards Club led by Richard Hunter, its members and regular supporters, the collective effort across the weekend played a key role in the event’s success. The strong spectator presence during the final created a fantastic atmosphere. Appreciation is also extended to Andy DeHaan for his continued encouragement of female participation through his coaching program at Hornsby RSL.

Our referees were invaluable throughout the event. Their professionalism, commitment and willingness to give their time across a long day of competition ensured matches were conducted smoothly and in great spirit.

Appreciation is also extended to Jason and his team at The Snooker Shop, long standing supporters of this event and the women’s game. Player gift packs were warmly received, with major prizes including an Eagle Cue valued up to $1000 and a $500 in store voucher. Thanks also to Greg Jenkins and Sportzplanet for providing coaching session prizes and event photography.

The event was delivered with the support of the NSW Government, whose funding and organisational assistance strengthens participation initiatives across the sport.

The success of initiatives such as the Empower Snooker Invitational reflects the Board’s ongoing commitment to the women’s game and the considerable work undertaken behind the scenes to create and support opportunities for women across the sport. Equity remains a central focus, with deliberate efforts being made to ensure women are supported and considered across participation, competition, leadership and administration pathways.

Looking Ahead

The continued growth of the Empower Snooker Invitational is already evident. We have already received interest from new players keen to participate in future editions, along with enquiries from venues interested in becoming involved.

This momentum reinforces the importance of creating accessible and supportive opportunities for women in snooker. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to expand pathways for women across the sport in the years ahead.