JOIN THE CUE: Snooker Icon Jimmy White Launches New Club Next to Non-League Stadium — with Ronnie O’Sullivan Set for Special Appearance.

JOIN THE CUE: Snooker Icon Jimmy White Launches New Club Next to Non-League Stadium — with Ronnie O’Sullivan Set for Special Appearance.

 

 

 

Snooker legend Jimmy White has launched an exciting new chapter in his storied career with the opening of a state-of-the-art cue sports club situated right next to a bustling non-league football ground. The venue, which opened its doors this week, has already generated buzz across the snooker world — helped in no small part by confirmation that Ronnie O’Sullivan is set to make a special appearance at the official grand opening.

The new club, aptly named “The Whirlwind Arena,” sits adjacent to the home of a well-loved non-league side, giving fans of both sports a unique hub where football and snooker culture blend seamlessly. The location isn’t accidental: White reportedly wanted the space to feel “alive,” placing it next to a stadium that brings in hundreds of fans every matchday.

Inside, the club boasts a dozen top-tier tables, professional lighting rigs, a coaching suite, and a dedicated exhibition area that celebrates iconic moments from White’s illustrious career. Walls adorned with memorabilia — from his early Crucible clashes to his Masters triumph — give the venue the feel of a living museum as much as a playing facility.

For White, 61, the project represents more than a business venture. Speaking at the soft launch, he explained that his aim was to “give something back” to both the snooker community and local sports fans.

“I’ve spent my whole life around this game,” he said. “Now I want to create a place where the next generation can fall in love with snooker the way I did. And putting it by a football ground? Brilliant. Sport brings people together — that’s the whole idea.”

The biggest headline, however, is the forthcoming appearance of Ronnie O’Sullivan, White’s friend, rival, and the sport’s most electrifying figure. O’Sullivan is expected to take part in an exhibition night featuring challenge frames, trick shots, and a Q&A session with fans. Early inquiries about tickets have already outpaced expectations.

While both men have shared countless battles on the baize, their mutual respect remains one of snooker’s most enduring storylines.

“Jimmy’s been an inspiration to so many players, including me,” O’Sullivan commented in a promotional clip. “When he asked me to come down and help launch the place, it was a no-brainer.”

Local businesses have welcomed the club’s arrival, anticipating increased footfall on matchdays as football supporters pop in for a pre-kickoff frame or post-match refreshments. The club plans to host amateur leagues, junior coaching programmes, and live screenings of major snooker events.

With its blend of nostalgia, top-notch facilities, and star power, The Whirlwind Arena looks set to become a new hotspot for cue-sport enthusiasts. And with Jimmy White and Ronnie O’Sullivan sharing the spotlight once again, fans can expect an opening night worthy of snooker history.