My Club, My Second Home

If you ask Ryan King what “My Club” means to him, you are certain to get a few pool stories and a heartfelt answer about family and how the New Plymouth Club has shaped his life.

“The club has been apart of my family for three generations. It started when I was just a little kid tagging along with my dad,” Ryan says. “He played pool. So did my grandad. I loved hanging around the tables until I was old enough to play myself.”

That time came earlier than most. At eight years old, Ryan officially joined the New Plymouth Club as a junior member, with a special dispensation from the club to play. Since then, it’s been his second home.

Now 27, a stay-at-home dad of four, Ryan’s still at the club five or six times a week. He spends his time playing pool, coaching, or helping steer the club as one of the youngest committee members in New Zealand.

“Working on the committee has been a fantastic experience. It’s been incredible to watch the Club grow and change under the leadership of The PCG committee, Donna, Board and staff. Eight years ago, I thought clubs were just for old guys drinking beer,” he laughs. “At our highest we have had 12,500 members, and the place is packed with 18-20-year-olds on the weekends.”

It’s not just the crowd that’s changed at New Plymouth. The club has also had a glow-up, with renovations completed at the end of 2023. The club won a TSB Business Excellence Award in 2024 as a result.

“We dropped the membership fee from $79 to $15, and suddenly the place came alive. It’s family-friendly now. It’s a vibe.”

Ryan’s not just building club community, he’s chasing his dreams. This year, he qualified for the New Zealand team to play at the World Champs in Ireland.

“Unfortunately, I had to give it a miss this time due to the arrival of a new baby, but I’ve made the team for next year and I can’t wait to represent NZ,” he says.

At the time of writing this article, Ryan was competing in the Australian National 8ball Championship.

With his brother working behind the bar and three generations of Kings now club members, Ryan’s aiming for life membership.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without my Club,” he says. “It’s always been safe, always been welcoming. And on a Taranaki summer’s day, there’s nothing better than a cold pint on the deck overlooking the ocean.”

So, if you’re thinking about joining but feel a bit unsure, don’t be. Ryan’s story is proof that clubs have a lot to offer. They’re for families, for young pool players and for anyone looking for a place to call home.