Title: Scunthorpe Steelworker Captains England Pool Team at European Championships
Scunthorpe steelworker Ashley Ellis, who also works as a roofer at British Steel, has emerged as a local hero following his announcement as the captain of England’s pool team for the impending European Championships in Ireland. The 37-year-old, whose passion for pool has long been a complement to his professional life, will lead the national team later this year.
Ellis’s career in pool started when he was just six years old, where he practised the sport at Bottesford Town Social Club using an old beer crate to enable him to reach the table. Guided by his grandfather, his unwavering dedication to the game enabled him to rise through the ranks of local leagues and successfully captain the Lincolnshire county team. His efforts culminated in his selection for the national squad four years earlier in 2023.
Fast forward two years, Ellis’s leadership prowess has been acknowledged, leading to his appointment as the national team’s captain. The memorable moment he received the call to captaincy was shared with his close-knit family; his wife, two stepchildren, and his ever-supportive grandfather, making the experience all the more special.
In a delightful family twist, Ellis’s stepchildren will also be showcasing their pool skills at the European Championships, competing in the Under 15s and Under 18s divisions. Ellis, understanding the added pressure that comes with leadership, confesses, “it’s a bit more of a daunting task – a bit more responsibility on your shoulders,” but emphasises his pride and thrill at the prospect.
British Steel, Ellis’s employer, has remained consistent in its support of him, even amidst its own internal challenges. Ellis noted, “they’ve been having tough times, and you’ve just got to stick with it and keep turning up to work,” standing by his employer and retaining hope for a prosperous future.
As Ellis stands on the cusp of leading his team into the Championships, he does so with the support and acclaim of his local community in Lincolnshire, who proudly celebrate their local hero and his accomplishments.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
