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Kenmore schoolgirl Lilly Meldrum, 15, becomes youngest national snooker champ

A Brisbane Year 10 student who learnt to play snooker on the back deck of her dad’s house has become the youngest ever national female snooker champion — and she says the Matildas have inspired her to aim for the world title.

Lilly Meldrum (left) with her trophy after defeating reigning champion Jessica Woods (right). Picture: Australian Billiards & Snooker Council/Facebook
Lilly Meldrum (left) with her trophy after defeating reigning champion Jessica Woods (right). Picture: Australian Billiards & Snooker Council/Facebook

A Brisbane Year 10 student who learned to play snooker on the back deck of her dad’s house has become the youngest ever national female snooker champion.

And she says the mighty Matildas have reinforced her dream to become the world’s best.

Kenmore 15-year-old Lilly Meldrum, who picked up a cue when she was only nine, has been winning major titles for four years.

By 2019 she was already fourth best in the world for under-16s despite having to use a jigger because she couldn’t reach over the table properly.

Last month she took her success to a new level, becoming the youngest winner in the history of the Australian Women’s Snooker Championship.

Her victory was all the more remarkable because her opponent, fellow Queenslander Jessica Woods, was the previous youngest titleholder and had half a dozen national trophies under her belt when the two battled it out in Albury.

Lilly Meldrum, 11, has just come back from world under 16 snooker titles where she came fourth. She is the Australian under 18 champion. Photographed at home in Kenmore.
Lilly Meldrum, 11, has just come back from world under 16 snooker titles where she came fourth. She is the Australian under 18 champion. Photographed at home in Kenmore.

“I lost against her (Woods) in the semi-finals last year so I wasn’t putting myself under any pressure,’’ the Kenmore State high School student said.

“I knew what I needed to do to beat her. She’s an amazing player, so I needed a very good strategy.’’

She now had her sights on next year’s world championships after making the semi-final in the U21 womens world title in Thailand this year.

She was a finalist last year in the worlds.

“We had a school assembly today (August 14) where they told us the Matildas (quarter final game) was the second most-watched sporting match in Australian history,’’ Lilly said.

“That’s so empowering for girls and women. Hopefully I can perform to that level, I feel so inspired by them.’’

Lilly Meldrum, then aged 11, practising on her back deck in Kenmore.
Lilly Meldrum, then aged 11, practising on her back deck in Kenmore.

The talent at Albury, in NSW, proved too strong in the Australian National Women’s Billiards Championship, which was held alongside the snooker titles.

Victoria’s Julie Watson defeated Lilly in the final 184-133.

“Despite her young age, Lilly displayed maturity and poise beyond her years as she navigated through challenging matches, proving herself a formidable contender,’’ the Australian Billiards & Snooker Council posted.

“The final match against Jessica Woods showcased thrilling moments and breathtaking shots, ultimately resulting in a well-deserved victory for the young talent.

“Lilly’s victory highlights the growing presence of young, talented female players in the world of snooker, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of women in the sport.

“Her passion and dedication serves as a testament to the opportunities and potential for women in the traditionally male-dominated game.’’

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/southwest/kenmore-schoolgirl-lilly-meldrum-15-becomes-youngest-national-snooker-champ/news-story/5fb5f2564ffebb9d505daae5e52a9d25