SPM Billiards Magazine Issue 46

Hello Pool Friends and Family,

Another great issue of SPM Billiards Magazine is out— we are now on Issue 46! I have been working on the magazine for over three years and have watched and nursed SPM through quite a few changes!

So much is happening in the World of Billiards right now! The VNEA has just finished, and Steve Rau has written a great story about his experience with Kelly & Wei Wei and a fantastic group of people there! We have the WPBA Raxx Mezz Invitational going on in New York!

Predator has some events coming up as well! On the 14th, they announced that they Rescheduled the Men’s WPA World 8-Ball Championship to New Zealand, September 2-8, 2024! The Massé WPA Women’s World 9-Ball Championship will be September 3-8, 2024. And the Predator WPA Juniors World Championship 2024 will be on September 2 - 8th!

The Crown Jewel of Nineball is about to begin on June 3rd in Saudi Arabia, with Matchroom making great strides in the World Nineball Tour. With the most significant prize money ever in Billiards! Who will be the winner and win the big 250,000 prize money? There will also be the Inaugural Saudi Junior Championship in Saudi Arabia! Matchroom is full of surprises!

“Be sure to check out Keith Shaner’s article on the UK Open titled ‘The Four Dark Horseman Ride!’ Brian Pauley also covers Kyle Van den Bosch and Mariposa Cues, and there’s a fantastic feature story on Jackie Karol included in this issue!” don’t forget to check out the other great articles by Dr. Dominic Esposito and Anthony Beeler and so much more!

Keep Growing the Sport we all Love!

BILLIARD NEWS

MYTHS THAT DAMAGE YOUR POOL GAME

There aren’t many pool players who, given a couple of hours, would use it to train their brain instead of their stroke.

The reason for this comes down to a series of myths that downplay the need for a sound mental game. These myths pull many pool players away from pursuing a better pre-shot routine or a better way to handle pressure. Training your mind can make just as profound a difference in a player’s performance as practicing mechanics.

Here are four misconceptions. See if any ring a bell and if a more accurate representation makes you think any more favorably about adding analytical skills into your practice routine.

MYTH #1 — WORKING ON YOUR MENTAL GAME IS ADMITTING YOU HAVE A WEAK MIND

For many pool players, the mind game generally echoes psychology as a tool for exposing and rectifying some perceived deficiency of a player’s character.

But the mind game is not about delving into your past or looking into the future. A more accurate and healthy interpretation is that it is skill-building, no different than changing something mechanical.

Take, for example, the skill of playing in the present. The human mind is constantly looking into the past or projecting into the future, but in pool, the game requires you to play in the present; otherwise, you miss

the clues the pool table gives you to win the game.

Becoming more focused on the present is just one of several skills that can be trained and learned. It’s nothing to do with having personal weaknesses.

MYTH #2 — WE CAN CONTROL OUR THOUGHTS

We are sold on the idea that Shane Van Boening enters a bubble where only positive thoughts go through his head. And then, when we can’t find a similarly serene mental state, we give up.

The fact is, you can’t control your thoughts, and neither can the current world champion. The notion that you might make a mess of things can affect any pool player at any time.

But while you can’t stop random thoughts from popping into your head, you can control how you respond to them. There is a big difference between believing your thoughts and simply noticing them.

Just because your mind produces the image of an embarrassing failure, you don’t have to go with that thought. Instead, you can do what Shane, or any top pro, does: notice the thought, let it pass, and then refocus on what you must do to execute the shot at hand.

MYTH #3 — POSITIVE THINKING GETS POSITIVE RESULTS

It doesn’t take a pool player long to realize that saying “I am going to run out” doesn’t always work. But it does bring about a feeling that you have nowhere left to go.

A better approach is to distinguish between positive thinking –which is a prediction into the future you can’t control – and asking positive questions.

“What does a good shot look like?” and “Is it possible that I could pocket this cut?” are examples of positive questions that put you in your most effective mindset while making no superficial forecast relating to what could actually happen.

MYTH #4 — A STEADY STATE WILL TURN YOU INTO A CONSISTENT PLAYER

No, it won’t! Even the most composed players can play well one day and then falter the next. Consistency is not the gift of a sound mind, yet many pool players feel let down when their performance drops, even though they have remained focused during their entire match.

Consistency, in general, is a myth when it comes to pool. Pool is not a perfect game, and you certainly cannot win all the time; perhaps your opponent ran out the set or made the 9-ball on the break three games in a row; you’ll be in a different frame of mind. Adaptability is a far better skill to develop, enabling you to address whatever obstacles the game throws your way.

Anthony Beeler is the current Billiards Instructor of the Decade and is a former BCAPL National Champion. He has numerous “Top 25” national finishes and is the primary author of the ACS National Billiards Instructor’s Manual. He has also authored the book Unstoppable! Positive Thinking for Pool Players. Anthony currently has the highest established Fargo Rating of any Master Instructor. He has won over 300 tournaments and has defeated numerous professional players in tournament competitions.

PRISON POOL

After being stabbed in the head and neck 17 times, my attackers gave a false police report, claiming I had attacked them and they were acting in self-defense. Already having a Manslaughter on my record, I ended up taking a plea for 24 months.

My bridge arm (left arm) was paralyzed from the stabbing, so I was carrying my arm around in my pocket. At the time, I thought God was rubbing it in because the Judge sentenced me to the only prison in the State that had a pool table.

Every day after my work detail, I would go to the laundry room, where they kept the pool table, and play one-handed. A Captain, a “Gold Badge, White Shirt Correctional Officer,” would come and watch me. Occasionally, we’d play a couple of games together and became pretty

good friends.

It was 11 months and two weeks into my sentence when one morning around 3:00 am, I felt like someone was standing over my bunk, so I sat up, and when I did, I reached up with my paralyzed arm and scratched my head. I thought I was dreaming at first, but after sitting there using my bad arm for about 10-15 minutes, the lights came on, and I knew I wasn’t dreaming! I had regained full use of my arm while asleep that night.

After getting my arm back, I was on top of my game within a few weeks. The Captain could no longer handle my game, and it wasn’t long before the gambling started. Out of the 700—800 inmates in the yard, 20-25 guys were pool players on the street, who would all gather in the laundry room to gamble on pool matches. They bet on their matches and side-bet when they weren’t on the table. We would bet canteen items, tennis shoes, and jewelry, and on

RICK

a fried chicken day in the mess hall, we would play for chicken!

You weren’t allowed cash in the yard, but we had it. I was sending money out of that prison every few days. I’d hide it in a mirror that they sold in the canteen. It was like a picture frame. The back slid out, and I’d slide a couple of hundred-dollar bills in it and mail them home to my girl, who had no clue the money was in the mirror.

One day, after watching me win several matches, the Captain told me he wanted to see me in his office. We went to his office, and after we sat down, he asked me, “How would you like a real gambling match of pool?” I told him that I only had $150.00 on my books. What do you want to play for?” He replied, “Oh, it’s not me. I have a guy that works for the Sheriff’s Department that I’ve been telling him about you, and he said he’s heard of you before and wanted to play you when you get out, So I told him, “Why wait, I can get you into the prison on visitors day, and you can play him, “So he agreed. He said, “If you get in too deep, I’ll back you myself.”

So, I agree to play. As soon as I left the Captain’s office, I put the guy on my friend’s list. The following weekend, on a Saturday, I heard my name over the loudspeaker calling me to the visitation room. When I walked into visitation in the lunchroom, the Captain and his guy were there. We talked for about 10 minutes, and then the Captain took us to the laundry pool room. He told the guys there that the laundry room would be closed for maintenance for a few hours and made them leave. (I was a maintenance worker) The game was 14.1 (Straight Pool). The first game was for $100. I won, and the guy paid the Captain.

We played for four and a half hours, and the guy had only beaten me twice out of 18 games. The wind-up was 18 - 2, and the Captain had $1800.00 of my cash in his pocket when we walked out of the laundry room.

The next day, the postman delivered a money receipt. Somebody added $1,200 to my prison money account. The Captain kept $600.00 for hosting the match.

I showed appreciation by buying Kentucky Fried Chicken for the entire prison population. Every North Side Correctional Institution convict had fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and baked beans with iced tea and biscuits that following Friday! Kentucky Fried Chicken dinners happened two more times before my release from prison.

When I got home, I found nearly $7,000.00 hidden in all those mirrors on my girl’s bedroom wall. You should have seen her face as I took out the cash one mirror at a time!

Years later, as I was reflecting, the thought came to me that God must love me to heal my arm and to put me in the one prison in the State that had a Pool Table.

Happy Shootin’!! “White Wolf”

THOUGHT FREE POOL?? POOL SCHOOL IS OPEN

It’s called many things: in the zone, dead stroke, free flow, thought-free pool. It all sounds so mysterious and vague. Everyone seems to know what it is, but nobody seems to be able to tell you what it is or how to achieve it. And if you’ve experienced it, why can’t you go there all the time?

The truth is, there is no such thing as thought-free pool. Pool is, in a large way, a mental game. We must use our physical and mental skills to become successful players.

So what is all this talk about shooting without thinking? It’s actually about eliminating distracting thoughts when you’re shooting. That includes any thoughts that aren’t critical to the shot in front of you. Obviously, thinking about ordering a basket of wings or that hot-looking bartender has no place in your thought process while shooting. But what about those things that you know can have an impact on your performance? Things like your stance, your approach to the shot, or even your stroke? Are these what your mind should be focused on? Absolutely not!

Thinking about your mechanics or process is the biggest distraction for most players. This is precisely why we need to put in the practice time. And proper practice is not about playing games with your teammate or hitting a hundred balls. Practice is to train your body to do things correctly without thinking about it. Stroke drills are to develop muscle memory so you have a consistent, repeatable stroke without having to think about what you’re doing. Stepping into your shot should be automatic. Finding our proper set position should be completely natural. And shooting routines should be just that…routine. If you’re thinking about any of these things during your game, you’re not giving yourself a chance to get anywhere close to thoughtfree pool. Putting in the practice time on our mechanics is the easiest way to free up our minds and allow our inner game to come out.

Earlier, I said that our game is both physical and mental. When we are in competition, how do we control the mental side? First, understand that there are only three things we can actually control on any shot: our aim line, our speed, and what spin we apply to the cue ball. If you’re thinking about anything else, you’re allowing unnecessary clutter to get in your way.

You need to answer two questions before your bridge hand touches the cloth. What do I want to do with this shot, and how will I do it? Once you make those decisions, STOP THINKING! If you have adequately practiced, let that training take over. Clear your mind and execute the shot. Once you complete the shot, stand up and decide what you want to do next and how you will do it. Then, get down and execute again. Repeat until you pocket the money ball.

The thought-free part comes during the 8 to 10 seconds when your bridge hand is on the table.

Think before shooting. Shoot without thinking.

Until next time.

Steve Jennings

ACS/PBIA

Master Instructor

JACOBY BUFFET CUE REVIEW

Irecently had the opportunity to test a unique and impressive custom cue made by my sponsor, Jacoby Custom Cues. This cue belongs to a series called Buffet Cues because each is built with various premium materials and inlays saved as extras from other high-end cue builds.

Its owner dubbed this Buffet cue “Moe “because it’s a mosaic of pure artistry in a pool cue. The turquoise and malachite stand out the most among the many different high-end materials.

The remarkable thing is that despite having an overload of design, the cue still has a very unique flow from the pin to the butt cap. The craftsman who worked on this cue took their time and planned out this seemingly randomized design.

I’ve never seen or played with a custom cue quite like Moe, and I can’t express just how impressed I am with this monster custom cue. Considering the amount of composite stone and materials, Moe had no other choice but to have a little extra weight at 21 oz. Although I’ve always preferred a lighter cue, I have become quite fond of Moe’s sheer power and accuracy. The additional weight has been a great reminder to slow down my stroke and allow my hand to come to a complete stop at the beginning and end of each of my pre-strokes.

Moe is only the fifth high-end cue I’ve played with, and it easily takes the cake regarding playability. Jacoby keeps it classic with the radial pin, which causes extra vibration on hit and provides a punchier feeling. I can

THOMAS SWAIN

THOMAS SWAIN PRACTICING WITH THE JACOBY BUFFET CUE PHOTO BY BRAD SWAIN

rely heavily on Moe to apply whatever kind of English I use. Sometimes, it’s almost too reactive, giving me another good reminder to use only the minimal amount of spin necessary for each shot!

I have enjoyed experimenting with Moe by playing drills. What impressed me the most is that I could accomplish some power strokes without feeling the need to hit the ball super hard.

Moe came with two shafts: the Jacoby Ultra and the Jacoby Black V4. While I liked the Ultra on my sponsored cue, the Mag-1, I thought the extra weight with Moe was too much for comfort. However, the Black V4 paired perfectly with Moe! Between the shaft’s soft hit and the effortless power, this cue has the perfect hit and feel!

I know that as long as I perform a good, fluid process, this cue will deliver an accurate hit and the action on the cue ball I intended to apply. Every time I pull Moe out of my bag at the pool hall, several people ask about it. I must say that pictures don’t quite do Moe justice because it has this unique flow that you almost have to see in motion to appreciate fully.

PHOTO OF THE JACOBY BUFFET CUE BY BRAD SWAIN

“VNEA MAKING GREAT STRIDES IN

LAS VEGAS!”

BY STEVE RAU OF STEVE RAU PRO BILLIARDS, MANAGER OF ‘KWIKFIRE’ KELLY FISHER AND WEI WEI ‘THE WAVE’ -WEI TZU CHIEN

Tremendous action occurred in Las Vegas at the Westgate Resort and Casino! The 2024 VNEA World Pool Championships was held from May 23rd through June 1st, 2024.

Nearly 5000 amateur and semi-pro players worldwide have converged in Las Vegas to compete to become champions in their respective tournaments. This event marks the 44th Annual VNEA celebration! Three hundred Valley pool tables adorn the resort floors as players compete in various tournaments: scotch doubles, team events, singles, senior events, and minitournaments, to name a few. Great competition and friendly camaraderie were felt throughout most of the Westgate Resort and Casino. It is quite an impressive site to see.

VNEA organizers went to great lengths to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable. Players

could enjoy great entertainment, accommodations, and first-class hospitality. Without question, Charlie’s Entertainment Lounge is the most popular site. Players could relax anytime, sitting in the comfortable lounge seating provided, practicing shooting or playing pool at the new Valley Pro Cat tables provided, and enjoying jukebox music at no charge and a generous menu of drinks available. It is a top-rated destination for everyone. Players could browse the vendors that were set up there, too. ONBOARD, OMEGA, and Jacoby Cues are among the businesses set up. There is something for everyone there. Clothing, cue repair, player jerseys,

any billiard accessory you could want, and the VNEA professionals onsite for guidance and teaching. Names like Jerry Briesath, Tom “Dr. Cue” Rossman, Dave “Ginger Wizard” Pearson, and VNEA Hall of Famer, professional and champion Shane Van Boening.

I met VNEA Executive Director Gregg Elliott and the Office Manager Mike Wiltse in Las Vegas during the BCA Expo in March 2024. We had a great conversation that eventually led to us agreeing to come together and create an interactive fan experience at the VNEA World Pool Championships. Billiard World

Champion, “Kwikfire” Kelly Fisher and Pro Billiard Champ Wei Wei “The Wave” -Wei Tzu Chien and I were in attendance. We arrived on Sunday, May 26th, just in time to participate in the opening ceremonies held at the Suds and Chips party outside on Monday, March 27th, at 7 pm. In the background, the VNEA logo was shining bright on the building’s marquee over the event. Players were served free drinks and danced the night away with the DJ, who kept the party going.

WEI WEI “THE WAVE”- WEI TZU CHIEN, SHANE VAN BOENING AND KELLY “KWIKFIRE” FISHER AT THE VNEA

PHOTO BY CORBY DAYHOFF OF SERVITUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Kelly Fisher and Wei Tzu Chien interacted with the crowd by signing autographs, taking photos, and chatting with everyone. The tournaments were already in full swing upon our arrival, so we heard how everyone was playing.

Tuesday morning, May 28th, was the first of four coaching academies that Kelly Fisher and Wei Tzu Chien hosted. The first session lasted from 9:30 am11:30 am, and the second was scheduled for 12:30 pm2:30 pm. Then, the same schedule on Wednesday, May 29th. Kelly asked the students about their skills and what they would like to improve. She then divided the students between her and Wei Wei. I was there for moral support. I was asked on social media, though, “What does Steve Rau teach?” I kindly replied, “I teach the students to listen to Kelly and Wei Wei.” We had a great group of students come through. Kelly taught them how to approach the table properly, cue stick handling, cue ball control, and other critical fundamentals you should practice before shooting. Wei Wei was teaching break, jump, and draw techniques and more.

Each student appreciated the opportunity to be taught by these two billiard pros. I asked Corby Dayhoff from Servitude Photography to meet with us because I knew he would take some great photos. Thank you, Corby. After the day’s second session, Kelly, Wei Wei, and I were on a Zoom call with Mark White. He asked questions about the event, shared stories with us, and laughed. He was on Zoom from Thailand, and we were in Vegas, so we had to be a little strategic when we did this because of the time zone difference. You can watch the Zoom on Facebook at Steve Rau Pro Billiards.

Tuesday, May 27th, was a special night for the crowd. We began our challenge matches, but earlier in the day, Mike Wiltse from VNEA asked if it would be all right for Shane Van Boening to challenge Wei Tzu Chien and Kelly Fisher in a 9-ball race. Mike just knew the crowd would love it. OMEGA was on hand to record the match. Wei Wei was up first and fought valiantly, but Shane came out on top. Then Kelly and Shane did battle. Kelly went up several games, then Shane came roaring back, but, in the end, Kelly

KELLY FISHER TEACHING AT THE VNEA

PHOTO BY CORBY DAYHOFF OF SERVITUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

had a strong finish. The crowd was into it. Their match had many funny moments, and they came away knowing the crowd had enjoyed it.

By the night’s end, Kelly Fisher and Wei Wei had completed 60 challenge matches against some VNEA players. We saw familiar faces from past events and met a lot more. People would come to our merchandise

table to purchase Kelly and Wei Wei’s t-shirts, logoed cue balls, 8x10 photos, game-worn jerseys, and more! I must personally thank Jennifer Abbott for her help at the booth. I appreciate her help so much.

Wednesday, May 28th, was the prestigious VNEA Hall of Fame party Kelly and I attended. Meeting the current and new VNEA Hall of Fame members was excellent. It’s genuinely a great group of people. I heard many stories from their past playing careers. After that, Kelly and I returned to the booth for several hours. Many players wanted autographs and merchandise, but most importantly, they wanted an opportunity to meet “Kwikfire” Kelly Fisher. Wei Wei missed out on Wednesday evening’s festivities due to not feeling well. Some fans wanted to meet her, too. They graciously purchased merchandise, and Wei Wei autographed them later that night. The following day, the customers returned to our booth to pick them up.

As the night ended, Kelly and Wei Wei had to get to the airport to fly to New York for a WPBA tournament at the RAXX Pool Room in West Hempstead, NY. I flew out on Thursday and had several delays. I arrived home at Midnight, then had to be at 103.9 The Fox Radio Station early Friday morning for an interview with one of the great all-time radio hosts, Johnny Burke and Steph Barber, to talk about the VNEA and the upcoming WPBA Soaring Eagle Masters event in Mount Pleasant, MI. It is scheduled for June 19th-23rd. Check out WPBA.com and SteveRauProBilliards.com to keep up with the latest news!

On behalf of Kelly Fisher and Wei Tzu Chien, we want to thank the VNEA staff and board members for

WEI TZU CHIEN TEACHING PHOTO BY CORBY DAYHOFF OF SERVITUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

KELLY FISHER INTERACTING ABOVE AND SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS BELOW AT THE VNEA PHOTO’S BY CORBY DAYHOFF OF SERVITUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

WEI WEI TEACHING ABOVE AND STEVE RAU INTERACTING BELOW AT THE VNEA PHOTO’S BY CORBY DAYHOFF OF SERVITUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

CONFIDENCE IN OUR TOOLS: A CUE TO DOUBT

Most cue sports players at any level will remember either buying or being given their first cue.

to other equipment and fundamentals that a player relies on, such as chalk, tips, ferrules, tables, cloth, lighting, cushions, gloves, balls, and more. It also encompasses physical aspects like stance, technique, and eyesight.

What they have probably long forgotten, however, is the lack of any worry and concern they had at the time, of how it felt or how good it was, with feelings and attention more focused upon just wondering how quickly they could get out to use it, and to play.

As players become more skilled and improve their ability, their focus at various times can be drawn increasingly to the equipment they use, especially concerning cues. “Old Trusty” is highly likely to be replaced, either from being outgrown, wanting to upgrade to a different make, or perhaps failing structurally in some way, or even being lost or stolen.

The bond between players and their equipment is essential in cue sports, such as snooker, pool, and billiards. Many believe that the cue is an extension of a player’s arm, symbolizing their skill and ability. This intimate connection with self-belief and confidence can be disrupted by wear and tear, inconsistency, or a loss of faith, all of which can significantly impact a player’s performance. Identifying the cause of this loss of confidence can be challenging, often leading players to unnecessarily adjust or discard perfectly good items.

This issue doesn’t just apply to the relationship between a cue and a player, but also extends

When a player loses this crucial faith, the consequences can be substantial, often leading to a period of uncertainty that can cause a player to deviate further and further away from their successful techniques.

The loss of confidence can reduce our focus as doubt creeps in, causing us to second guess our execution, and instead, our concentration moves to potential equipment issues and mistrust rather than the shot in front of us.

Even if we are only distracted by 1 or 2%, this distraction can be hugely magnified on the table, taking our concentration away from the shot or area where it should be, increasing the risk of making a mistake such as missing a ball, running out of position or miscuing.

Inconsistency in stroke and control can occur while worrying about technique and tinkering with cueing increases while blaming equipment when the root cause may lay elsewhere.

Worrying, blaming, and inconsistency can all lead to a downward spiral, especially when the feeling of a need to “fix” the issue occurs. This can significantly

add to the stress of competition, possibly leading to performance anxiety and making it harder to find fulfillment in playing and practice.

Our internal monologue, that little voice in our head, can struggle to accept ownership of its influence on our thoughts and perceptions, leading us to externalise blame and shift focus to other areas, like our cue, instead of acknowledging a lapse in concentration or distracting thoughts. This creates a mental obstacle that hinders performance.

This means that distinguishing between genuine equipment issues and reduced mental strength can be difficult for us. However, there are several ways to try to separate fact from doubt.

Isolating the Doubt:

The ideal relationship between players and their tools is one of trust and familiarity, especially with cues, which account for a large part of the hours spent practicing.

Where possible, investing in quality equipment and having a well-made cue with the correct length, weight, and strength provides a solid foundation for where to start. Regular cue maintenance ensures optimal performance and minimises the risk of unforeseen issues, and developing a routine of inspecting your cue regularly helps to build reassurance.

As humans, we often gain confidence from external validation. Receiving a clean bill of health from a doctor provides reassurance; the same principle applies to our tools.

If we feel there is a possibility of having an issue with a specific piece of equipment, getting them checked can undoubtedly help. Asking a reputable and trusted cue maker or distributor to check a cue and provide advice can be a great starting point. Confirming that the cue is okay or needs maintenance or repairs can provide us with renewed confidence.

The same can be said for ourselves, so consulting a trusted coach for a technical review of our game can again reassure us that we are continuing to follow a consistent approach. We can also gain advice on areas of improvement that are within our control, which can reduce our tendency to blame

our cue or other tools. A coach that a player has been working with for some time should have a good idea regarding the basis of a player’s technique and will usually be able to spot if there have been any changes.

The Then:

If we have confirmed as much as possible that our equipment is not at fault, we can take several steps to help rebuild confidence and self-belief, including reducing unhelpful distractions or thoughts from our game.

When working with players, it often still surprises me how working on the psychological side of the sport can cancel out worries that competitors thought were technical rather than mental. Once confidence and self-belief have been reinstated, many of these issues are forgotten and fade away.

Some good tips to navigate this are –

• Preparation pathway: Having a solid structure regarding preparation can help us gain confidence and prepare answers for when that little voice pops up. This can involve knowing we have good practice planned with helpful routines, using skills such as positive self-talk, visualisation, and meditation to help provide clarity, confidence, and trust in ourselves, technique, and tools. This may also involve such things as acclimatising to venues by spending time within them before competing.

• Getting back to basics: Reducing everything to the basics can greatly encourage confidence growth. Practicing fundamental drills and routines to re-establish a feel for the cue and its mechanics can help rebuild trust in your equipment and your ability to control it. But just as importantly, seeing and feeling shots being played well and going into pockets mentally can rebuild belief.

• Revisit Past Successes: Remind yourself of times when you played or practiced well with the same equipment. Did you win a tournament? Hit a series of impressive shots? Focus and reflect on these memories as evidence that your cue and other equipment can perform these top performances.

• Practice Drills: Focus on drills that emphasise grip, stance, and stroke fundamentals. By isolating these elements, you can rebuild confidence in your

THE CRUCIBLE QUESTION

“I don’t like the Crucible. I don’t think you can get in and out of it. I think definitely it’s a wise decision to take the World Champs away from Sheffield. I know you get nice tea there; you might get lasagne if the guys are cooking. But that’s about it. You get no peace and quiet; you cannot even park there. Trying to get in and out of Sheffield, it’s a nightmare”.

“I think Saudi Arabia would be great. They’ve got the resources and would do it great. If you’re going to take it to China, you’d have to take it to Shanghai. Or another major city like Shenzhen or Guangzhou. It’d be done properly. Courtesy cars. Food will be there. Hotels will be great. Everything would be paid for. Prize money would be astronomical.” — Ronnie O’Sullivan

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY WRITER OF”THE CRUCIBLE QUESTION” ELLIOTT WEST

Introduction

The Crucible Theatre became the World Championship’s home in 1977. A snooker stage where plenty of drama has been played out over the years, causing both elation and heartbreak. A venue that amazingly only has 980 seats and a stone’s throw away from the players and the snooker. With a vinyl divide for the two table set up that often constricts a shot and allows someone on the end of the seating row to view both matches, the Crucible’s right to hold the World Championship divides the snooker family.

For those who make this 17 day snooker pilgrimage from far and wide with a deck of all sessions tickets and a seat that they rarely leave, it would be a sporting crime to end this association and move the tournament to a bigger venue in the UK, China or Saudi Arabia. Most of the players also agree on this but there are a growing few who feel the time is right to sever the connection with the Crucible. With Barrie Hearn now taking a back seat and his son Eddie holding a lot of cards and someone who doesn’t particularly like snooker, a hairline crack is starting to appear in this dogma. Even Barry himself wants a plan to emerge where the World Championship is moved to a new building in Sheffield that rivals Alexandra Palace, the Tempodrom and makes massive inroads into the seating capacity of the Hong Kong Masters. Yet to get this past the Crucible faithful will require a mammoth task and one you have to be extremely brave to even contemplate bursting this heritage bubble.

My Thoughts

The Crucible is a jewel in snooker’s crown and to remove it would be like cutting off your arm to spite your face. The very walls of this hallowed building hold so many snooker memories. It tops every snooker venue ever played in because it is unique and so special. It’s probably the only venue where you never see an empty seat and one when you leave there are numerous pubs on your doorstep. In order to get a ticket for the World Championship here, you have run a keyboard marathon to be in with a chance. Tickets that sell out as fast these days as those for Glastonbury.

What those who want this tournament moved must realise is that the World Championship prior

to coming to Sheffield had no permanent home. It was a nomad that roved around the country. This simmering debate that surfaces every time it is held just causes unnecessary jitters and friction. Sheffield itself is teeming with culture, shops and nightlife. So to use the excuse that you can’t get a decent meal at the Crucible, the place smells or you can’t swing a cat in there, is frankly pathetic.

This isn’t about creating a new snooker environment, it’s purely a money making exercise. Money talks in any industry and snooker is no exception. The recent Riyadh Masters proved that. No snooker player is going to turn down the chance to make a bumper return in prize money and if you only have to work a fraction of the 17 days to achieve it, it’s a no brainer. Yet by moving the World Championship away from the Crucible, you would just dilute this mystical ethos. It’s an idea that probably has Joe Davis turning in his grave and the backlash from the devoted is not worth it. You only have to look at the tournaments played on the snooker calendar in China to see the numerous seats that are left empty because the average person in China can’t afford a ticket. Yes snooker should continue its journey of becoming a global brand but a certain jewel has its rightful place and shouldn’t be assassinated with an eviction notice.

What people need to realise is that the Crucible is a theatre that doubles as a snooker venue for the World Championship and the Seniors once a year. If you actually been fortunate enough to experience one of these two tournaments, then you will know how special it is to just walk through the foyer doors and sit on one of golden coloured seats. This is a melting pot of snooker where you can almost touch the players and the lighting on the ceiling looks like a starlit sky.

Behind the scenes is a rabbit warren of corridors and rooms which the media use and the players drape their suits and cues in the dressing rooms that are normally inhabited by actors. You only have ask a player who drives here in the tournament or as a bystander what the feeling is like to come here. As your car approaches, the hairs stand up on the back of your neck and you get butterflies in your stomach.

Elliott West has a blog titled Snooker Loopy which he created and is inspired by his love of the game spanning over 32 years. Check out his website! It is full of great articles. https://greenbaize1972.com Cont. on page 44

UCUE: TRANSFORMING BILLIARDS WITH CUTTINGEDGE TECHNOLOGY

Billiards is a game that hasn’t changed much in the past few hundred years. However, that may not be true in the coming years thanks to both augmented and virtual reality innovations by UCUE, an innovative company with quite the vision.

Under the leadership of President Gerald Cole, UCUE embarks on a journey to redefine the very essence of the game through a fusion of technology and passion.

The Visionary Concept UCUE’s flagship creation, the UCUE system, is central to its mission. This groundbreaking invention introduces a billiards playfield viewing system and

gaming platform that pushes boundaries. Suspended monitors above the tables stream live gameplay, while laser projections offer strategic shot suggestions directly onto the playing surface. With integrated live streaming and social media connectivity, UCUE delivers an immersive experience for players and spectators.

Objectives for Each Phase

The success of each phase relies on collecting realtime data from player accounts. Therefore, customer acquisition is the most essential aspect for the young company, as the upcoming phases will depend on data collection to create advanced features.

Phase 1: Laying the Foundation — Initial efforts

GERALD COLE THE MAN WHO CREATED THE UCUE AND PRESIDENT PHOTO PROVIDED FROM GERALD COLE

are dedicated to data gathering and analysis to train the system in the intricacies of billiards.Gerald Cole stresses the significance of building a user base early on to fuel data acquisition and system refinement.

Phase 2: Precision and Guidance — Building upon Phase 1 insights, UCUE evolves to provide targeted shot recommendations and object recognition.This phase heralds a new era of gameplay, where the system aids players in strategic decision-making and precisely identifies individual balls.

Phase 3: Fusion of Gaming and Wagering — UCUE expands its horizons by incorporating gaming and wagering elements, enabling players and viewers to engage in competitive play and betting. - By integrating these features, UCUE seeks to broaden its appeal and establish itself as a frontrunner in digital billiards.

Gamification Meets Augmented and Virtual Reality AR and VR technology advancements propel UCUE’s integration of overhanging billiard lights into immersive experiences. This integration not only elevates visuals but also enhances interactivity, marking a significant leap forward in gaming technology through: -

Billiard Ball Tracking:

Real-time tracking of ball positions and orientations enables seamless alignment of virtual and physical elements. –

Projection-Mapping:

Advanced algorithms map shots and angles, scoring based on difficulty and enhancing interaction between projected visuals and tangible objects. –

Dynamic Lighting Control:

Developers control lighting intensity and color temperature to match virtual environments, fostering deeper immersion. –

Content Rendering:

AR/VR content, from intricate 3D models to interactive interfaces, is rendered in real time, offering limitless potential for engagement. UCUE’s foray into AR and VR gaming unlocks a realm of possibilities. From virtual obstacles to dynamic environments, players are immersed in thrilling challenges and competitions, redefining the traditional boundaries of learning the game. UCUE’s innovative spirit and technological prowess are reshaping the billiards landscape. With a keen understanding of player needs and a commitment to advancement, UCUE leads the charge into a new era of digital billiards. As the company continues to evolve, I am excited to see how Gerald Cole and UCUE can change how we play and teach pool. my younger years, I was an adventurist. I was into rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, sky diving, bull riding, mountain boarding, and bungee jumping—basically anything that would get the adrenaline pumping.

UCUE is coming soon

Learn more at https://www.ucuebilliard.com

Explaining Aiming Part 2Finding the Ghost: Tales

of the Ghost Ball

In issue 45, we discussed key terms that may or may not affect your overall aim. In this issue, we will discuss the tale of the ghost ball.

The ghost ball is the most used and taught system in the world. It is an easy-to-understand concept that allows the player to estimate where he or she needs to aim to make proper contact with the object ball.

How to find the ghost ball:

If you want to find the most accurate ghost ball, you must find the ghost ball center. To find the ghost ball center, the shooter needs to know that a billiard ball is 2.25 inches wide. Therefore, an accurate ghost ball center is 1.125 inches away from the object ball the player is planning to make contact with.

The ghost ball can be measured by using the tip of the cue. Place the cue at the edge of the object ball intended to be struck. From the edge of the object ball, move the cue tip back 1.125 inches from the object ball. That spot is the ghost ball center. Shoot the cue ball through the ghost ball to make most of the shots taken. Advanced-level players may not use their cue, as they can only perceive the ghost ball center from the stand-up position with their eyes.

Pros of the ghost ball:

• The ghost ball is straightforward to teach and, in most cases, very easy to pick up.

• You can place your cue on the table to find the ghost ball.

• If you are using another aiming system and don’t trust you are using it correctly, players can always return to the ghost ball to have a close estimate of where to make contact with the object ball.

• If you are having trouble using other aiming systems, you can use the ghost ball to help set them up.

Con’s of the ghost ball:

• Despite being easy to teach, it can be difficult to calculate for accuracy

• If you leave a chalk mark on the table from trying to find the ghost ball, your opponent could accuse you of cheating.

• The ghost ball does not take into account the effects of CIT (cling). Therefore, it doesn’t make certain

shots that usually would go in.

For Instructors:

If you are interested in teaching the ghost ball, I recommend using the ghost ball Aim Trainer. The Ghostball Aim Trainer is a small piece of paper-like material that sits underneath the object ball, which has a lever sticking out at 1.125 inches (the ghost ball center). You may find this tool at www.amazon.com.

I also recommend the Billiards Angle Trainer. This device sits on top of an object ball and has a plastic lever sticking out of it 1.125 inches away from the object ball (ghost ball center). You can find this tool at www. amazon.com or www.billiardangletrainer.com.

G1’s advice:

Despite the ghost ball being very easy to teach. I do not recommend the ghost ball because it has too much estimation. To be able to find 1.125 inches without a ruler is not a consistent way to aim. Using your cue stick to find the ghost ball center can also depend on the shaft diameter size. If you are coaching a player, I recommend using your finger to show them where to aim if the ghost ball is their preferred way of aiming.

RULE ALERT: If you are shooting in the APA, placing a piece of chalk as an aiming point on the rail for the player to look at is legal. It is NOT legal to put the chalk on the felted part of the rail, only the wood.

Join me in the July issue of SPM Billiards Magazine, where we discuss Fractional Aiming.

IThe Perfect Break-Shot

The Drill Instructor Way

f you’re sick and tired of breaking dry, getting hooked, or scratching on the break, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there and thankfully this month’s lesson will get to the heart of it.

Attempts to unlock the secret of snapping the 9 ball on the break has been studied many different ways, by many different people, over many years, using many different techniques. The answers found are no surprise and for as many who have tried, there are as many differing opinions. Who’s right? This has remained an open matter of interpretation for years. I quantified with a degree of probability, how to snap the 9 ball on the break. Let me share it with you.

First, is there really a secret to it? I don’t think so. Many players break from the corner of the box. This is when breaking rules require the player to position the cue ball within a lined-off zone. That zone is located on the breaking side, one diamond in from the side rails and two diamonds up to the string line (also called the head string).

In any case, you’re responsible to know the breaking zone parameters before you play. It’s not always marked off or easily seen, so, check to be sure of the measured breaking area.

The most commonly seen positions for the cue ball on the break can be seen in Images A and B below. These are commonly referred to as breaking from the side rail and inside the box or in the kitchen. The main reason players like these breaking positions is because they provide a high probability to pocket the 1 ball into the opposite side pocket and pocket the wing ball into the corner pocket.

Where you place the cue ball for the break-shot can make a big difference. Keep in mind that the cue ball must never exceed more than halfway over the head string. Notice how I placed the cue ball off the left side rail above. If fully behind the line is the rule, you just fouled.

How hard you break is another important consideration. Here again, you can find many different views, but the one that matters most is the one that’s breaking the balls in your favor. Harder doesn’t always mean better.

Here’s what I mean. The right break shot speed is the speed that you have the greatest control over. That’s the only way to learn to shoot the break-shot like it’s a real pool shot. You must always be decisive and consistent with your break-shot control.

Take it from me, your first main concern should not be where you place the cue ball or how hard you hit the cue ball. In other lessons I teach more drills for controlling the cue ball, for executing the different types of break shots, and so much more.

This month, we’re focusing on learning how to “control the cue ball” on a break shot.

Cue Ball Control for Power Breaking.

1. Set the cue ball in the center of the table. Place a rack of balls on the break spot (for drop pockets, adjust the count based on that pocket’s capacity. Use the entire rack if your table has a ball return system).

2. Place the first ball one diamond over from the center spot, creating a dead straight in shot into the corner pocket.

3. Use one-half tip of English above center.

4. Shoot the ball into the corner pocket, with a 4 Speed Shot Stroke (same as a Lag Speed) and cause the cue ball to slow-roll and follow the object ball into the corner pocket.

Note: This drill develops your skill to hit the head ball square on your break-shot.

Practice this until you consistently cause the cue ball to slow roll into the corner pocket. Pocketing the object ball is important. More importantly, however, is that the cue ball follows directly toward the same corner pocket. This cue ball roll is your indicator that your aim was head on.

After each rack of balls has been pocketed (or that pocket’s capacity) increase the Shot Stroke Speed by One Shot Speed. Your goal is to cause the cue ball to continually slow roll forward inches from or directly into the corner pocket.

When you have developed a solid command of pocketing the object ball and controlling the cue ball to slow roll toward or into the same corner pocket, move the cue ball back one-half diamond and continue this drill break-shot exercise, following steps 1-4 above.

Again, when you have developed a solid command from the second position, move the cue ball back another one-half diamond. Repeat steps 1-4 from this location until you again with consistency cause the cue ball to slow roll within inches or into the pocket. Perfecting control of your break-shot can’t be rushed. You must give it time to develop into the consistency you desire.

Remember, if your cue ball follows toward the corner pocket too fast, adjust your English.

As you move the cue ball back each half diamond, always start with a controlled 4 Speed Shot Stroke. Only increase the speed after each rack of balls and as you can consistently control the majority of the cue balls to follow into the corner pocket. Make sure you’re always pocketing the object ball with the cue ball trickling directly behind.

Now that you’ve developed control of the cue ball, rack up a standard 8, 9, or 10 ball rack and place the cue ball directly on the center spot, but behind the line.

Step back and visualize a straight line through the head ball.

Now imagine a pocket on the rail, just like when you were setting up the straight in shots earlier. As you apply One-Half Tip Above Canter Ball English, the cue ball should bounce back off the head ball to about the center of the table and come to a quick stop.

What used to be between 1/2 tip of English above center, that caused the cue ball to roll slowly forward into the corner pocket, now becomes the exact forward spin needed to bring the cue ball to a stop

at center table, after it recoiled back by the sheer weight of the rack of balls resisting the cue ball after impact. This small amount of follow English is enough to bring the cue ball to a stop at mid table.

Now then, for the BIG question, where do I place the cue ball to break from? Feel out the particular table you’re using for that match. If you didn’t like the response of the balls from your last break, move the cue ball an inch or two until you find a spot where you’re pocketing one or more balls on your breaks. When you find it, you’ve found that table’s sweet spot for your break for that night and I suggest you stick with it.

Personally, I snap that 9 Ball a consistent 1.5 times out of 10 break-shots. To do this, I place the cue ball ½ ball from the spot, use an 8-9 Speed Shot Stroke ½ Tip above center, and hit the head ball dead head straight on.

There are many more complete lessons in the BOOT CAMP series you can train with on DITV. We invite you to join today!

To find more drills from The Drill Instructor, go to www.thedrillinstructor.us check them out today.

The Angel of Billiards

Jackie Karol

with World-Class Pocket Billiards Instructor: Jackie Karol,

Introduction:

ackie, Angel of Billiards, Karol is not your average pocket billiards instructor. With a resume that boasts titles such as National 8-Ball and Trick Shot Champion, as well as a former Professional International Pool Tour Player, Jackie is a force to be reckoned with in the world of billiards. Her unique approach to teaching combines cutting-edge technology with years of experience on the table, making her one of the most sought-after instructors in the industry. With thousands of students and glowing testimonials to her name, Jackie’s success speaks for itself.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background in the world of pocket billiards?

JACKIE KAROL AND COSMIC POOL ICA SYSTEM PHOTO BY SANDRO MENZEL

JACKIE KAROL © CHRIS

JACKIE KAROL AT HER TABLE WITH ILLUMINATED CUEING ARTS ON THE TABLE

PHOTO BY © CHRIS HO PHOTOGRAPHY

A: I’ve been playing billiards for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my father, who was a nuclear engineer, taught me great fundamentals and put a cue stick in my hand at the age of 3, so I practically grew up on the felt. I started competing at a young age and quickly made a name for myself in the billiards community. Over the years, I’ve won numerous titles and championships, including the National 8-Ball and Trick Shot Championships. I also had the opportunity to compete on the Professional International Pool Tour, which was a dream come true for me.

Q: What inspired you to become a professional instructor?

A: After retiring from competitive play, I knew I wanted to continue working in the billiards industry in some capacity. I had always enjoyed teaching and sharing my knowledge with others, so becoming an instructor seemed like a natural next step for me. I’ve always been passionate about helping others improve their game and reach their full potential on the table.

Q: Can you tell us about the cutting-edge technology you use in your training?

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL BILLIARD LESSON PARTY PHOTO PROVIDED BY JACKIE KAROL

JACKIE KAROL 8 YRS.OLD LOVING POOL

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JACKIE KAROL

A: One of the key tools I use in my training sessions is a specialized training aid, Illuminated Cueing Arts, that illuminates shots on my Pool School, Advanced Course, and PHD (Pool Hall Degree - lol) modules on the table. This cutting-edge technology shows the ideal power, English, and path of the cue ball, complete with a target zone and specific instructions written in light on the table. This allows my students to visualize and execute shots with precision, helping them improve their game faster and more efficiently.

Q: What sets you apart as a double certified professional instructor?

A: I hold certifications from two prestigious billiards organizations, PBIA and ACS, which required rigorous

training and testing to achieve. These certifications demonstrate my expertise and commitment to excellence as an instructor. I adhere to the highest standards of teaching and continuously strive to learn and grow in my profession to provide the best possible instruction for my students.

Q: What do your students have to say about their experience working with you?

A: I have been fortunate to work with thousands of students over the years, and the feedback I receive from them is incredibly rewarding. Many of my students have seen significant improvement in their game after working with me, and they often comment on my patience, clear instruction, and ability to break down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms. I take great pride in seeing my students succeed and reach their goals on the table.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring billiards players looking to improve their game?

A: My advice to aspiring billiards players is to set clear goals for yourself and work diligently to achieve them. Practice regularly, seek out quality instruction, and never stop learning and growing as a player. Pay attention to the mental aspect of the game, as strategy and focus are just as important as technical skill. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey of improvement.

In conclusion, Jackie Karol is a world-class pocket billiards instructor with a wealth of experience, accolades, and cutting-edge technology at her disposal. Her unique approach to teaching, coupled with her double certifications and glowing testimonials, make her a standout in the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to take your game to the next level or a beginner just starting

JACKIE WORKING WITH A STUDENT USING THE ILLUMINATED CUEING ARTS PHOTO BY © CHRIS HO PHOTOGRAPHY

out, Jackie’s expertise and passion for the game make her the ideal instructor to help you reach your full potential on the table.

Testimonials:

Thank you, Jackie. You made me feel comfortable. I love your up beat nature. I look forward to more lessons and instruction.

— Joy Simonian

Working with Jackie has been very good for my game. She can coach the technical side as well as anyone, but she also spends time on the mental side of the game: I’m learning not only how to physically play the table, but how to think about playing the table as well. Her drills are fun and challenging, and each one teaches me something different about the game.

— Rob Griffith

Jackie is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with. She has a strong handle on both the mental side of the game, as well as the fundamental skills and habits that lead to success and consistency. Her analysis and coaching has done a lot for my game.

— Drew Onderko

After you left, I beat Tyrel D. 5-2, then Rico L. 5-4, and then lost 5-6 to Bernard S. in the finals (I would have had to double-dip him if I’d won). So I took second! And performed at an effective Fargo rating of 633 for the day. Not bad Thanks for everything you’ve done for my game. I’ve made a lot of small but fundamental changes since we started working together, and there’s no way I could have achieved this much consistency without that. I also used to HATE follow shots. But today was the first match/ event where it felt like I shot more follow shots than draw and draw actually felt more awkward than follow. It’s crazy how much of a rack you can run out with nothing but medium-speed follow shots, and how consistently accurate they are. I’m so glad you stuck around and watched some matches!

— Drew Onderko

Hi Jackie, I just wanted to let you know how my pool was going. Before I had lessons with you, I was on a 5 game-losing streak and a skill level 3 almost a 2 lol, and now after the lessons I won 9 straight games, and last session I made MVP out of 80 people and got a reward for the most shutouts and wanted to say thank you I haven’t stopped having lessons I will want to continue soon I will let you know have a good night talked to you soon.

— Jason Tornson

I used to politely decline when my friends or cute girls would ask me to play pool in bars. When Jackie asked me what my goal was for lessons, it was simple: I wanted to be able to confidently rack, break, and play pool with my friends and yes...the cute girls at bars. What actually happened was that I discovered a whole world I had no idea existed and a game that is both subtle in its complexity and daunting in the level of commitment required to master it - if mastering it is even possible. From the first lesson, Jackie focuses on good fundamentals from stance and stroke to the mental game but unlike other instructors, she truly understands what it takes to play at a professional level. I am now ready to play pool whenever my friends ask, which I’m sure they’ll do again once they get over the break and run I dropped on them the last time.

— Kyle Eberle

When I met you, I thought you were Pool Royalty. — John Denton

Jackie has improved my stance, grip, patience, and my confidence around the table! She is a very understanding teacher that won’t move on until she is confident that the student understands what she is teaching! I can’t wait to start the Advanced Course!

— Garret Olsen

JACKIE KAROL | The Best Damn Billiards Instructor! National Champion 8 Ball & Trick Shots

PBIA Instructor | ACS Instructor www.AngelOfBilliards.com

JACKIE KAROL PHOTO BY SANDRO MENZEL

Confidnce in Our Tools: A Cue to Doubt by Matt Andrews Mentoring — Cont. from page 24

• Pre-Shot Routine: A solid pre-shot routine helps eliminate distractions and promotes focus. By concentrating on visualising the shot, aiming, and your own execution, you’ll have less mental space for equipment doubts.

• Focus on the Present: Dwelling on past misses or equipment worries clouds your focus in the present moment. Train yourself to accept doubt rationally and logically, then consciously shift your attention back to the shot at hand.

Remember, even the best players experience doubt. By using these strategies and building a solid and trusted process, you can overcome the distraction of equipment concerns and regain confidence in your game.

Be sure to Check out Matt Andrews Mentoring at: www.mattandrewsmentoring.org

ARTICLE ON PAGE 16 —VNEA MAKING GREAT STRIDES...

CHECK OUT THE INTERVIEW WITH STEVE RAU PRO BILLIARDS, KELLYFISHER WEI WEI WITH MARK WHITE HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STEVERAUPROBILLIARDS/VIDEOS/465925686022547

The Crucible Question by Elliott West — Cont. from page 27

These feelings never leave you. Just to walk out in front of that Crucible audience is a unique experience. It is petrifying and at the same time, heartwarming. The echo of applause and a cheer that spurns you on to want to win. It can be the most exhilarating place and also the most lonely when you on the precipice of defeat. The Crucible Curse lingers over the venue and the ghosts of the past talk to you in your head. A snooker madness that is a sublime insanity and only when you raise the trophy, do the Crucible shackles fall to the floor.

Nothing tops this experience, and to sever it would be like turning out the last light in the building. The Crucible experience burns bright like a coal in a fireplace. The flames of snooker lick this very theatre, and you can sense its history billowing from its foundations. It is alive and well and must never be snuffed out. An almost religion where the words are unwritten but known by heart and memories. It lives in your heart and soul and fills you with joyous emotion that is only second to the happiest days of your life. A tournament that brings fans together in an extended family, full of laughter, tears, and the many tipples after a late night snooker session. A rubber stamp that has its own unique DNA and continues to morph over time. A chrysalis that keeps on bearing new fruits and a memory that stays with you for a lifetime.

Check out Elliott West’s Blog at https://greenbaize1972.com technique and minimise the role of equipment concerns.

THE UK OPEN:

The Four Dark Horsemen Ride

This year, the UK Open hit its third iteration, and what an event it was for any pool fan. The number of established, emerging, and rising stars was incredible, and it continues to grow as the WNT builds its worldwide following.

For US fans, it was great to see we had Sky, SVB, Fedor, JJ, Jeremy Sossei, Billy Thorpe, Tyler Styer, Shane Wolford, Oscar Dominguez, Paul Song, Hunter Lombard, Rob Hart, Danny Olson, BJ Ussery, Lukas Fracasso-Verner and young Sam Henderson representing the US contingent. I have been impressed with Sam Henderson for quite some time, and he proved himself worthy of being included at

this event. He had a couple of great wins, including one over Mohammad Soufi, the runner-up at the 2023 World Championships, and he went hill-hill after a nice comeback against Jefrey Roda, who just missed making the 64-man cut.

The cut. This is where the real story begins. This is where we see the heart of pool—the emotion, the drama, the excitement. This is not only where you see how they play, but it is also the secret to why they play the game. This is where their livelihoods and reputations are put to the test. Between the announcement of the first break and the trophy celebration, the lifeblood of this sport flows.

EMILY FRAZER & ROBBIE CAPITO STANDING WITH THE UK OPEN TROPHY

PHOTO BY TAKAIMAGES FOR MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT

When you look at the list of 64, you see names like Sanchez Ruiz, Shaw, Ko, Ouschan, Kaci, Filler, Gorst, Biado, and Van Boening. There are no big surprises there. Next, we see Oi, Yapp, Zielinski, Grabe, Lechner, Dominguez, Krause, Styer, Makkonen, Aranas and Fortunski. Again, these are names that generally make the cut. Pijus Labutis, a rising young star, seems to be getting in more and more, along with Robbie Capito, Jonas Souto Comino, Kledio Kaci, Daniel Maciol, Tobias Bongers, and Oliver Szolnoki. The mix keeps getting interesting.

There was one big upset in the first round of the second stage, as Jayson Shaw fell to Tobias Bongers, but otherwise, there were no huge surprises. Now that we are down to 32 players, things start to take off a bit as we see Francisco Sanchez Ruiz fall to Petri Makkonen, Wiktor Zielinski knock off Carlo Biado, and Pijus Labutis get past Aloysius Yapp.

The plot thickens in the round of 16 as Petri Makkonen takes down this year’s MC player-captain Sky Woodward. Tobias Bongers continues to be the giant killer as he cuts down Ko Pin Yi. Mieszko Fortunski defeats Ko Ping Chung and Robbie Capito slips by Fedor Gorst 10-8. Eklent Kaci manhandles SVB 10-5 and Pijus Labutis tops Mickey Krause.

We were privileged to witness these rising stars coming into their own in the quarterfinals. Petri Makkonen knocked out Albin Ouschan in a tough hill-hill battle. Mieszko Fortunski took control of his match and beat Tobias Bongers 10-4. Robbie Capito came out with a big lead, but Joshua Filler caught a gear and quickly closed the gap. Capito was able to stay steady and close out the hill-hill match. In the final match, Pijus Labutis took game one, but Kaci was serious about defending his title, and the match stayed close until Pijus dug deep and pulled away from Kaci, never letting him back in to win the match 10-5.

I heard someone refer to the semifinalists as “underdogs,” and from a historical perspective, you might be right. It is a bit of a statistical anomaly, but it certainly isn’t impossible. I prefer the term dark horses to describe them.

You don’t get to the last four in a major by luck—you just don’t. These guys may be battling for their first major, but they all deserved to be there for the fight. They earned it. They did exactly what they were supposed to do. It’s a perfect example of how there are no easy wins these days. If you have an off day or make a critical mistake, these players are quite capable of making you pay.

Let’s look at the players themselves:

Robbie Capito

He was born in Hong Kong, but his family is originally from the Philippines. He started with a toy table at the age of two and then graduated to the poolroom when he turned five. When he was twelve, he won an open national championship while also taking the junior title at the same time. He was seventeen when he defeated Eklent Kaci at the 2018 World 9-Ball Championship. He has also been a finalist twice in the World Junior championships. A young star who is no stranger to the spotlight, I think we will continue to see him make an impact.

Petri Makkonen

Petri is a bit older than our other finalist at thirty-six. He won the 2012 World Cup of Pool with Mika Immonen. He won the German Open in 2015, defeating Konrad Juszczyszyn. He was a runner-up in the European Pool Championships to David Alcaide. Again, a player who has displayed an ability to go deep into important events playing against top talent.

Mieszko Fortunski

At thirty-two, Mieszko has had some impressive wins. He won the Italian Open in 2016. He is a three-time winner at the European Championships with a win in the singles 10-Ball in 2019. He won the team event, representing his native Poland, in 2015 and again in 2018.

PETRI MAKKONEN AT UK OPEN PHOTO BY TAKAIMAGES FOR MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT

Pijus Labutis

I have seen all these players play in many events, but I am most familiar with Pijus Labutis, having met him, photographed him, and interviewed him.

He is still shy of his 27th birthday and has been steadily climbing the ladder over the last year or two. He finished second in the Derby City 9-Ball, second at the Open 9-Ball Pro Championship, and has had multiple top-ten finishes on the Euro Tour.

I’ve felt like he has been right on the cusp of joining the top echelon. In concept, at least, I am reminded of a story about young Bobby Jones when he wondered if he would ever win a big event. He was told he was the greatest player in the world, and as soon as he realized it, he would win. I think it applies here. As soon as he realizes that he belongs amongst these top players, he will win himself a major title. The semifinals began with Petri having the misfortune of scratching on the opening break. He then had a chance to save the first rack but failed to pocket the 8-ball, and Miezko took control. He went on to keep control of the match and finished with an 11-4 victory, putting him into the finals.

Next up, we saw Robbie Capito taking on Pijus Labutis. Pijus won the first three racks playing very smartly, keeping the pressure on Robbie. Capito made a great kick shot on the 7-ball in rack four and went on a run that gave him a 6-3 lead. After that, it was a back-and-forth battle where the pressure intensity was clear. Pijus pulled to within one at 8-7 and looked like he would tie the match when he hung the 5-ball. Robbie reached the hill first, but Pijus continued to fight. A missed 2-ball in the last rack closed the door on him as Capito won 11-8.

The finals saw Capito jump out, winning game one and then almost winning game two early with a very

MIESZKO FORTUNSKI AT UK OPEN PHOTO BY TAKAIMAGES FOR MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT

tricky 4 ball bank combination. However, Mieszko was able to take advantage of the hanging 9-ball himself to even the match at 1-1. Fortunski also captured racks three and four before Robbie got some breathing room and took game five. He looked to be in control of game six, but a mistake gave Mieszko a chance to extend his lead further. Robbie Capito, showing his poise and determination all week, then went on to erase the deficit and take the lead for himself at 7-4. Fortunski had a chance to cut that lead, but a scratch on the 5-ball looked like Robbie would continue to pull away. In a lapse, Capito overcut a routine 8-ball, and the lead was cut to 7-5. Rack 13 again looked like Mieszko was back in control, but a thin cut to a tight pocket and he hung the 7-ball, turning the table back over to Robbie. As the pressure continued to push these players, the tight pockets shrank for them even more, and every shot became a question mark. Robbie missed a 5-ball in rack 15 that let Mieszko pull within two games. In rack 17, a well-struck jump shot by Capito rattled out but left no shot. Fortunski failed to hide the cue ball and lined up a two-nine combination that put Robbie up 10-7. Mieszko nearly hung the 8-ball in rack 18, but it fell, and he closed the gap to two games at 10-8. At 11-9, Robbie again failed to pocket a thin cut down the rail, and Mieszko moved to within one rack. A Mieszko foul in the next game led to an attempt at an early two-nine combination,

but Robbie failed to put it down. Still, Fortunksi could not capitalize on the mistake as he misplayed a safety that let Capito arrive on the hill first. A perfect break with a good spread and an opening shot and Robbie was off to the races, closing out the match 13-10.

A respectful handshake and a happy celebration by Robbie took place before he collected his $30,000 first prize.

There was quite a bit of talk afterward again about the failure of any marquee-name players to make the final four and the tightness of the pockets, which were speculated to be under four inches.

I want to talk about the courage and determination of these four gentlemen and thank them for providing us with all the fun, drama, excitement, and surprises that a fan can ask for at an event. Equipment and anomalies be damned, it was a prestigious event, played by the best players in the world and four new stars emerged out of the everexpanding Matchroom Universe.

Gentlemen – I say to you, well done!

PIJUS LABUTIS AT THE UK OPEN PHOTO BY TAKAIMAGES FOR MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT

MIESZKO FORTUNSKI & ROBBIE CAPITO RUNNER UP AND CHAMPION AT UK OPEN 2024

PHOTO BY TAKAIMAGES FOR MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT

BARRY HEARN AND ANDY GOLDSTEIN

GEAR UP TO COMPETE AT US OPEN POOL CHAMPIONSHIP 2024

The World Nineball Tour are excited to announce that Barry Hearn OBE, Chairman of Matchroom Sports, and Andy Goldstein, renowned TalkSport Radio host, will be competing as wildcard players at the US Open Pool Championship at Harrah Resort, Atlantic City 19 – 24 August live on Sky Sports in the UK & Ireland.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Hearn and Goldstein are set to battle in pool’s most historic tournament, competing in a 256-player field fighting for a prize pool of $300,000 at the New Jersey casino. This is one fans do not want to miss.

The two new US Open wildcards were on TalkSport Radio today (30 April 2024) to speak about the tournament:

Barry Hearn said: “To walk out there and play against one of 128 players from the World Nineball Tour, which are the 128 best Nineball players in the world, is incredible… If I win one rack in the first round, I’ll sleep happy.”

Responding to Hearn’s doubts of either of the two doing well, Andy Goldstein said: “I think you underestimate me… I actually think I have a chance at winning it.”

In preparation for their participation, both Matchroom Sports Chairman and TalkSport Radio host will be dedicating themselves to training regimes in months prior to the American Open.

Since the first event in 1976, the US Open has grown over the decades to become one of the most anticipated events in world pool, with the 43rd anniversary looking to become the most exciting US Open yet.

Broadcast Details

Through a range of global broadcaster partners, the US Open Pool Championship will be broadcast in every country around the globe. Nineball fans in the United Kingdom & Ireland will be able to enjoy via Sky Sports, with those in the United States able to watch through DAZN. Viaplay will broadcast the event in the Netherlands, Poland, Scandinavia and the Baltics.

Further broadcast details will be released in due course with fans outside the listed countries able to watch the US Open via Matchroom.live.

ABOUT WORLD NINEBALL TOURIntroducing

the World Nineball Tour (WNT), a game-changing initiative in professional pool. With a $5 million minimum prize fund and over 40 ranking events worldwide, the WNT heralds a new era for the sport. Committed to fairness, transparency, and commercial viability, the WNT offers players a clear path to success by providing opportunities to accrue World Nineball Ranking points and gain access to prestigious tournaments on the calendar.

For media enquiries please contact: pool@matchroom.com

KO PING CHUNG 2023 US OPEN WINNER WITH JEREMY JONES & KARL BOYCE PHOTO BY TAKA WU FOR MATCHROOM MULTI SPORT

The custom cue-building industry has been growing and evolving to incredible heights. If you go into a pool room around a decentsized city, chances are multiple players are playing with custom cues. One allure of having a custom cue is there is a high probability that no one else has the same cue you do. It is almost a badge of honor to say you shoot with that builder’s cues. Cue building is a labor of love, especially if only one

person is building them. The number of hours put into each cue shows the builder’s care for their work. As with most people in the industry, there is an early exposure to pool that grabs a hold of people. The same is true for Kyle Van den Bosch of Mariposa Cues, even though his exposure was something a little different than most people, which played a big part in how he builds cues.

MARIPOSA CUES PHOTO BY KYLE VAN DEN BOSC

When were you first introduced to pool?

Pool and billiards have always been part of my life. Growing up, we had a table in our living room, and as soon as I could reach it, I would roll balls around. I even have foggy memories of watching my dad play billiards from atop the tall wooden chairs at Chris’s billiards, the same ones that Paul Newman used in “The Color of Money” years later. At ten years old, I remember shooting a trick shot for Mike Massey at my dad’s new room, the Chicago Billiard Café. However, it wasn’t until I met Efren Reyes that I made the switch from billiards to pool. He spent some time in the room when he first came to the US, and everyone was mesmerized by his stroke and cueball control. I didn’t realize it at the time, but looking back, it was his love for the game and his charming personality that drew me in.

What drew your fascination with cue building?

Besides the time when 9-year-old Kyle tried to whittle a broom handle down to use as a cue stick, I was never fascinated with cue building. When I started working for Joe Gold of Cognoscenti Cues, I was just a young pool player who had recently graduated high school without any direction. I knew that I loved the game, but cue building wasn’t as common in the early 90s as it is now, and the financial barrier to entry was much higher. My first introduction to custom cue making was when Jeff Carter brought me to Beloit, Wisconsin, to meet Frank Sailor. I recall that his house was his shop. I think he had a lathe in the guest bedroom and a pool table in the living room. I thought it was the most bizarre thing, but I didn’t leave without asking him to make me a cue. At this point, I was a pretty serious player and on a quest for the perfect arrow. My search eventually ended when I tried a Helmstetter with a wooden pin. This was the hit I was looking for. However, once I entered the realm of cue-making, it changed everything for me. I became endlessly curious. I examined the local cue dealer’s (John Wright) case. Turns out he always had the best of the best in stock.

MARIPOSA CUES PHOTO BY KYLE VAN DEN BOSC

As time went on, the more I learned, the more questions I had. I wanted to understand how every cut and inlay was made and why all the cues played so differently.

For those that have not seen your shop, give us an idea of your setup.

My shop is currently in my detached two-car garage. When we bought the house, I had a 200-amp meter installed in the garage so I could get the new shop built. Inside the garage, I have one metal lathe, one table saw, one table saw shaft machine and a collection of other common woodworking tools. I ran out of room in the garage, so I built a finishing room in the house’s basement. I am currently looking for a bigger space.

When did you feel you had “made it” as a cue maker?

I’m not sure. I will let you know when it happens. Probably never. I was just thinking about this the

other day. I was wondering why Van Gogh kept painting pictures. He never “made it” while he was alive, but he just kept making these paintings, which few wanted. It was like he couldn’t stop. I think I am like this. I am making cues because I enjoy it. I would prefer that people continue to buy them, but I think I would still make them even if they just started piling up. I was telling my wife about this, and she said that she would pull the plug on the operation if I started drinking Absinthe and cut off my ear.

You use a wood joint, which is not the norm. What is your reasoning behind that?

Mariposa cues feature proven traditional construction techniques such as a wooden joint pin and butterfly splice work. Butterfly splicing and wooden joint pins are more commonly used in carom cues to deliver maximum energy to the cue ball while providing the “feel” necessary for delicate shots. Mariposa cues aim to provide pool players with the same playability benefits

MARIPOSA CUES

carom players have appreciated for centuries. The wooden joint pin has a lifetime guarantee and provides a solid one-piece feel and hit. The allwood construction assures the sensation of the hit travels uninterrupted from the tip to the grip and provides the player with excellent feedback.

Many cue companies and even custom builders sponsor players. Do you sponsor any players?

In the beginning, Mariposa cues were introduced to players at the Chicago Billiard Cafe, and I would travel the Midwest sharing pictures and brochures. In the 90s, professional pool player Jeff Carter started playing with his custom-designed Mariposa, which has been highlighted in all three additions of the Blue Book of Pool cues.

I am currently sponsoring Avery Brandt and Tara Verharen. I am speaking with others about sponsorship, but I have nothing to share currently. Most often, I will donate cues for Junior events or the onepocket.org tournament in the Netherlands. I want to help the game grow, and generally, I would rather donate a cue to sponsor a tournament than give it to a single player.

How easy is it for an individual cue maker like you to source materials?

Sourcing materials has become increasingly simple in the past decades. Facebook groups and discussion forums are filled with knowledgeable people sharing sources and techniques. This is a far cry from the way things were when I first started making cues. In the early 90s, sources were closely kept secrets. You needed to be in tight with an established builder if you wanted to have access to the real primo stuff. Now, it is all available for the highest bidder.

One of your themes on your website is sustainability. Can you elaborate on how you do that and the history behind that decision?

When I first started making cues, I came from a shop where elephant tusk was often inlayed in cues. I was a vegetarian at that time and wanted to promote a different relationship with the world. So, I decided that, when possible, the materials used in crafting a Mariposa cue will be sourced from responsible suppliers whose forestry practices guarantee the continued yield of the species harvested. Mariposa was one of the first cue companies to introduce woods such as Chechen, Chakte-kok, and Katalox as alternatives to endangered woods such as

Cocobolo, Pink Ivory, and Ebony. We have always used environmentally safe glues and finishes, and our commitment to safe and sustainable production is guaranteed.

What is your favorite wood/material to work with, and what is your least favorite?

The fun thing about making cues or visiting a cue maker’s shop is the smell of the different woods as they are cut. If you visit my shop when I am turning my Torrefied maple shafts down, you will swear that you were in a sugar shack because the whole place smells like maple syrup. There is also the sweet smell of rosewoods, or how the colors of Cocobolo change as it exposed for the first time in years.

My least favorite are the exotic woods I love to cut. In an unfortunate twist of fate, I have recently become very allergic to most of these woods. I can no longer smell them without paying a price. I am required to wear a respirator when working in the shop, and I am taking two different allergy pills every day. I have recently spent a lot of time and money improving my dust collection system to make working in the shop less hazardous.

When you are not making cues, what are your favorite and least favorite games to play?

I love playing one-pocket. It is by far my favorite game to play. All up-and-coming nine-ball players should learn this game to improve their bank game and safety play. My new favorite is bar-box 8-ball. Several years ago, I was living in a small town that had no 9-foot tables within 100 miles, and I joined an APA league. This opened a whole new world for me. Until this time, I only played on the big tables. I love the delicate position play required on the small table.

My least favorite game is now Big Table Nine-ball, which used to be my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, I still love watching the pros in Matchroom events, but it’s the last game I would want to play. I prefer the strategy of other games more than showcasing pocketing prowess and big strokes needed to play nine-ball. This is probably because I am older and don’t have my big stroke anymore.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I will still be struggling to keep up with demand. Wood pin cues play great, and as I get them into more hands, more people will try them.

And, I believe if people hit balls with my cue, they will feel the difference. I will continue to grow my shop into something bigger and provide the industry with a product that it needs. I want to start sponsoring more tournaments and perhaps open a new billiard café, in the old style, but with class.

If you could play anyone living or deceased in any game, in any format, who would it be and why?

I would play with my dad. I would play him anything, anytime, anywhere. I am lucky to have him in my life still, so we do play some billiards when we have time to visit. He is the guy responsible for all of this, and I will never be able to thank him enough for all his love and support.

For more information on Mariposa Cues, check out www.mariposa-cues.com

(L-R) EVERYONE HAS A MARIPOSA CUE — GOVERT-JAN VOS, TARA VERHAREN, GEORGE RAGIBAL, KYLE

VAN DEN BOSCH, KARIN, STEVEN VERHAREN. PHOTO BY JIMMY WORUNG

The Rediculous 30 Second Shot Clock

Do we need enough time between shots to make a burger, eat, and powder our face? No. Slow players are brutal and ruin tournaments.

However, a 30-second shot clock is not enough time when the racks are a little complicated and players need a mechanical bridge or an extension for their cue. We should never see players running to their case, and then running back to the table. The time should immediately be stopped and if the player changes his mind, stopped again.

Below, are options considered in just one scenario trying to get position on the 5.

1) If I play the cut I could have trouble getting to the six. (yellow position)

2) If I go forward and overstroke I could hook behind the 8. (blue)

3) If I pull Q-ball back (red) I could end up far away and have trouble getting on the six.

4) (orange) Power the 4 in off the 9, hoping the 9 doesn’t interfere with the 7/8.

5) play the 4 and bank the 5 shortrail first at the nine allowing 5 to go up the table for a possible safety.

Looking at all these options, you have 20 seconds and then 10 seconds to execute. �� ��

The game is far more complex than most think. Of course, folks will use the analogy of a match they saw played on a 30-second shot clock where the guy played perfectly. That is the exception to the rule: anecdotal evidence.

I took option 4 and ran out.

Enjoy!

Addendum: the less time a player has to think, the more it damages the players with a vast amount of knowledge.

Pool was never a speedy reactionary sport like tennis, basketball, or ping pong. It’s a sport that player choose their own pace and shoot when ready.

50 seconds is more acceptable IMO.