They’ve been credited with bringing humanity to the table.
The BBs are one of eight teams in the North Western Pool League.
Made up of players with a range of disabilities, it’s the only team in Australia competing in a mainstream league.
Comprising Danny Alsabbagh, Glen Cahill, Sula Gjomakaj, Kim Long Bui, Matthew Moles, Brad Mollison, Ibrahim Nasser and Zenny Spiridis, the BBs are supported by “Captain Nick” Cailes.
The men attend annecto’s David House in Yarraville where they practice pool on a well-worn table before Wednesday night tournaments at Altona Sports Club.
Some of the guys joke that playing pool gives them an opportunity to sink a beer.
Alsabbagh, who has Down syndrome, is also a talented actor known for roles such as Toby in the ABC TV series Summer Heights High.
Nasser only recently joined.
“When I started, I didn’t know how to hit the ball but each week I got better and better,” he said. “I enjoy this team because we have a laugh and play jokes and we’re here to have fun and be social.”
Gjomakaj, who plays with one arm and is very competitive, said he also liked to help out in the demanding role of referee.
Captain Nick said there was initially resistance from some in the league because “they take their pool very seriously and they felt that it might compromise the seriousness of the competition”.
But they agreed to give the BBs a go.
“Obviously, 10 years later, it’s been a great success,” Captain Nick said.
“A lot of the people I speak to, and I’m witness to it too, have found that the participation of the BBs in the pool league has actually strengthened and increased the importance of the pool league to all the players.
“There’s a sense that the BBs bring a certain humanity, if you like, to the league.
“It’s been a great benefit to the league generally, not just to the BBs.
“Inclusion isn’t just for the BBs and the people who support them – it’s for the community.”
Related: www.starweekly.com.au/news/a-guide-to-inclusion-in-sport/pub/maribyrnong_hobsons_bay/
