Ones To Watch – Dean Young

Scotland’s 18-year-old prospect Dean Young enjoyed a fine start to 2020 on the table and was ready to bid for professional status before lockdown ensued.

Young has been one of the top performers on this season’s Challenge Tour. He ended the regular campaign ranked in fourth position and earned himself a place in the play-offs for a spot on the professional circuit. That event has been postponed, but when it comes around he will be one of eight players competing for a tour card.

His best performance came in the seventh event in Neerpelt, Belgium, where he defeated Andrew Pagett 3-1 in the final to take home the trophy.

Young, who became Scottish Under-21 champion in 2018, has already made his mark on the World Snooker Tour. He made his televised debut at the BetVictor Shoot Out in Watford earlier this year and enjoyed a memorable run, beating David Grace and Liam Highfield on his way to the last 32 before losing to Yan Bingtao.

Quickfire Questions:

How did you first get into snooker?

“My dad has always been a snooker fan. He loves the sport, so he took me for a game one day and I’ve loved it ever since then.”

Who were your snooker heroes, growing up?

“It would be between John Higgins and Ronnie O’Sullivan. I can’t pick one.”

How much of a buzz was it to play in the Shoot Out and win a couple of matches?

“The Shoot Out was the best experience of my life. I absolutely loved it and to win a couple of games just made it more special. “

What’s your best achievement in snooker so far?

“It would have to be the Challenge Tour event in Belgium that I won this season.”

How do you rate your chances at the Challenge Tour play-offs, when they come around?

“I try to think positively for every tournament I go to. So I reckon I have as good as a chance as anyone at the play-offs.”

What are your long term ambitions in snooker?

“I’d just love to get on the professional tour and make a living out of something I love doing, it would be a dream come true.”

Who do you usually practise with?

“Mainly Scott Donaldson as we play in the same club.”

Do you wear glasses just for snooker or all the time? Do they help you play?

“I wear glasses all the time – I always have from a young age. The ‘Dennis Taylor’ glasses have helped me a lot and have improved my game.”