“I just want to bring more disabled people into the sporting industry and pool. If I can do it, everyone can do it.”

At just nine years old, Aaron Batchelor’s life changed forever when a bleed on the brain forced him to relearn how to move and walk. Though he never regained full use of his left arm, his determination and love for competition never left him.

Now based in the small mining town of Muswellbrook in the NSW Upper Hunter, 35-year-old Aaron has found his passion and purpose through the sport of Blackball pool. His journey is one of resilience, community spirit, and a drive to open doors for others with disabilities.

From Local Pub Pool to the World Stage

Aaron first picked up a cue around 2017–2018, playing casually in local pub pool comps. By 2019, he competed in the Sydney 8-Ball Masters, where nerves got the better of him – but it was just the beginning.

The 2020 lockdowns gave Aaron time to reflect and refocus on his goals. That’s when he discovered Blackball, a variation of pool that would change his life.

In 2021, Aaron travelled to Hamilton, Victoria, to play in his first-ever National Championships, where he also entered the Disability Category. Despite finishing last, his passion and sportsmanship earned him the role of LD/PD (Learning Disability/Physical Disability) Coordinator for Blackball Australia.

Rising Through Challenges

Aaron’s perseverance quickly paid off. In 2022, he competed at the Blackball International Championships in Morocco, representing Australia on the world stage. Battling health issues and jet lag, he fought his way to a 3rd place finish in the world, helping the Australian LD/PD team secure gold, silver, and bronze medals.

But the year took its toll. Aaron admits, “This worlds took a part of me I thought I’d never get back,” yet he continued to rebuild and refocus.

Building Momentum

Through 2023 and 2024, Aaron competed across Australia and internationally — from Geelong to Johannesburg, and later to Canberra and Los Angeles, even representing Australia in Chinese 8-Ball.

Each event brought lessons, challenges, and growth. Despite injuries and health setbacks, Aaron’s commitment to improving his game and mentoring others only grew stronger.

That same year, Aaron competed in the Heyball Parasport World Championships in Brisbane, finishing in the Top 16 — a testament to his continued drive and skill.

Leading the Way for NSW Blackball

In 2025, Aaron stepped into a leadership role, forming NSW Blackball under BAPA (Blackball Australia Pool Association) as its Head Leader.

His mission: to expand the sport across New South Wales, deliver state titles, and create more opportunities for players of all abilities.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

Aaron says there’s still much more to do, but his vision remains clear: to make cue sports inclusive and accessible for everyone.

He extends his gratitude to Australian Community Fundraising (ACF) for supporting his journey and helping him continue inspiring others across Australia and beyond. 

🎧 Listen to Aaron’s 2GB Radio Interview:

Disabled Blackball Player’s Amazing Story of Perseverance – 2GB Radio HERE