SPM Billiards Magazine Issue 32

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Steve Jennings SPF/ACS/PBIA Master Instructor

By Steve Jennings4

So our first checklist to complete is our studying checklist. It is definitely an analytical period in our routine as we begin to lay the groundwork to complete a successful run-out. At this point, we still have more thinking to do before we get down to shoot. Now that we know what we want to do, our thought process shifts to how will we make our plan work. This is accomplished with our second or standing checklist.

Let’s look a little more closely. Deciding what we want to do is pretty much big picture thinking. What is the best pattern I can see to reach my ultimate goal. Many pros will tell you to think 3 balls ahead. This is more easily done if you practice thinking backward. Where do I need to be for the best shot on the third ball? What is the best path to get there from my second ball? And how do I get there after making the first ball. As you complete the first shot, you now need to add another ball into the equation. This allows you to always have 3 balls in your plan. If you watch the better players, you will frequently see them touch their tip to a spot on the table. This is a way of verifying their intention for the end position for their cue ball at the conclusion of the shot. This isn’t a move of

We have 3 checklists we develop for various parts of our shooting routines. Basically, our studying checklist is where we decide what we want to accomplish. Our standing checklist is where we decide how we are going to do it. And our shooting checklist is where we execute our plan. The first two require analytical thinking. The third is when we have to stop thinking!

It’s often been said that playing pool is as much a mental exercise as it is a physical effort. Different aspects of the game require different amounts of mental and physical effort. It becomes important to understand when and how to apply each

Different parts of the brain process information in different ways. Analytical thinking occurs primarily in the left side of the brain, while the right brain controls more creative thought. Accountants, architects, and engineers function primarily in their left brain, while artists, musicians, and actors are more often operating from the right brain. Playing pool requires us to be able move from left to right brain functions, depending on where we are in the shooting process.

showmanship like Babe Ruth pointing his bat toward the right-field fence. It’s part of their visualization process. It gives them a specific target for their cue ball. Visualization is a topic for another day, but it is a critical aspect for successful players. Creating a complete and precise mental image of the expected outcome helps ensure things turn out the way we plan.

There are three things we have control over on any given shot, and we need to make decisions on all three. The first decision can be thought of as Angle or aim. The specific aim line creates a shot angle, so our control for this aspect comes from accurately positioning our cue stick for precise delivery

We have taken a close look at the thought process for our studying checklist. This is the checklist we use to decide what our plan is going to be. We probably moved around the table enough to see things from different angles to get the complete picture and make sure what we want to accomplish is possible. We now find ourselves standing behind the cue ball, looking toward our target. Our thought process now shifts to how to move the balls according to our plan.

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Our second factor we can control on every shot is the speed we apply to the cue ball. Obviously, we need to have proper cue ball speed to make sure the object ball reaches the pocket but then has enough energy to travel to the desired position for proper shape on the next ball.

of the cue ball to our target. Our thinking needs to be verifying that we have determined the correct angle or aim line, so we can make sure our cue stick will be placed at the correct position for the shot.

The final part of the shot we control is how much and what spin we will be applying to the cue ball. Too much, or too little spin, or the wrong kind of spin will prevent the cue ball from responding as we intended. Again, this can cause missed position for the next shot…or worse! There is really nothing else we can control on any shot, so it’s critical to make sure we consider all three on every shot. Cover your Angle or aim line, Speed, and Spin on all your shots. I’m sure you will find a very easy way to remember the 3 control factors.

At this point, it’s time to STOP THINKING! All of your necessary decisions have been made. There is nothing left to think about. It’s time for your shooting checklist. No thinking. Just execute the shot the way you have planned, relying solely on the fundamental stroke mechanics you have spent hours developing through practice, repetition, and muscle memory. The actual shot execution should be natural and thought-free. The legendary NY Yankees coach Yogi Berra often told his players, “You can’t think and hit the ball at the same time!”.

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In other words, we need to Think before shooting, then shoot without thinking!

Until next time

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By Keith Shaner

Adam’s competitive nature has kept him motivated, and he keeps looking for better players to take on, relying on his own wits and keeping his eyes and ears open to learn whatever he could to add improvement to his Adamgame.

His father gave him his first lessons in the basics, and then he worked and practiced alone, honing his skills and developing his terrific work ethic. He played with friends Kevin Frontz and Randy Dininger, two fine local players, and then as he became more serious, he began playing with Shane Lykins. Shane is a very skilled player himself, and that work paid off, and Adam made his first significant jump in skill as a player.

loves the big table, especially for practicing, but he will play the bar box tables without hesitation if that’s the game. He plays with a Mezz cue and with a wood shaft, something not often seen these days with the rush of interest in carbon fiber. His preferred game is 10-Ball, but he is quite accomplished

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Adam is from Mansfield, Ohio. Northern Ohio has had a long, rich history of pool. From Youngstown to Canton to Akron to Toledo. He began playing for fun at first and then more seriously in his early twenties, first at home and then taking on his first tournament in a local establishment called Janna’s. He credits his dad with getting a table for something to do and sparking his first interest in the game.

I have only known Adam for a few years, and I’ve only gotten to know him better in the last year or two. Adam is one of the best examples of what a player can be on and off the table. He’s quiet and reserved and very respectful of himself, his opponents, and the game. He is a man of quiet control, and sometimes his stoicism can be intimidating for some, I think, but he is most certainly a true gentleman. He has a great work ethic, he’s always willing to help others, and he is a great role model for young players looking to do things the right way.

at both 8-Ball and 9-Ball, respectively. He has played in some high-profile events in the last couple of years, The Derby City Classic and the US Open, respectively, as well as some very fine showings in regional events like taking down the singles event in Fort Wayne, IN. He also recently matched up in doubles action with his partner Shane Murphy against Shane Jackson and Russian Kenny and in a head-to-head meeting with Shane Winters. Adam loves the challenge, and these types of matchups fuel his desire to get better and refine his game that much more. He is a player who understands the true context of wins and losses and uses that knowledge to his advantage in growing as a player instead of stagnating or backsliding because of ego and fear.

I asked Adam about the current state of pool, and he feels that drastic changes in the approach to marketing and promotion must happen, along with better standards for players and tournaments. He thinks that players are too resistant to change and are holding back pool from growing as a sport and attracting the kind of support structure pool needs. We are in the insanity loop of doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result.

Adam is also a fan of watching pool; whether a local stream or a big national or international event, he will tune in and watch. Many great players watch pool, more so than many think, as it can be entertaining, and you never know when you can learn something new.

Adam has experienced some very positive things from pool, traveling, and doing something with friends that they all love to do. Meeting new people and having new experiences, all while still being able to compete at the same time.

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Thank you, everyone, for taking the time to read and support us!

Pool needs faces, and Adam is one face I hope we see in the game for a long time. Thank you for sharing this time with us, my friend.

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Like his friend and frequent road partner, Shane Murphy, Adam prefers team events to singles. He sees team events as a way to build interest for viewers and sponsors. Events like the Mosconi Cup and The Battler for The Border are prime examples, City vs. City, State vs. State, or Country vs. Country. It’s much easier to build a story and show rich characters in a team environment. Fans need teams and players to watch and root for; the game, whatever is played, will take care of itself.

Outside of the game, Adam loves competitive arm-wrestling. Once you see him, you will see why, lol. He is also a car buff, and as a guy who once restored a couple of old fastback mustangs and spent years traipsing around car shows, it makes me like this guy even more. Family and balance are also very important to Adam. He has his priorities in proper order and conducts himself accordingly. That may be the biggest lesson any of us can learn.

His favorite rooms to play in these days are Buckeye Billiards, his homeroom in Mansfield, Ice Breakers in Youngstown, and Cushions in Westerville. He also would rather play in head-tohead matchups rather than the same old singles tournament formats being played these days. For tournaments, he would much rather go the doubles or team route. I know other players feel this way, too; they see them as more fun and challenging than a simple singles race-totwo type of event.

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The photis of Adam Martin are from the VNEA Stste Championship. A challenge match with Shane Winters a doubles challenge match both at Buckeye Billiards oh and also a challenge match with Kevin Nazeer he won giving up quite a bit of weight also at Buckeye All photography by Keith Shaner

A little about Keith Shaner:

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I have been around pool & billiards since I was very young. I began playing with some serious thought when I was in middle school and made my first run of 50 at age 15, but by the time I was in college at OSU, I didn’t have as much time to play. With school and work and late a wife and children there just wasn’t sufficient time to devote to playing. I worked in software development for almost 35 years and in recent years was able to return to playing the grand old game with 3-cushion straight pool and one-pocket being my favor ites. However, I remained a fan and viewer of the game for many years while I wasn’t active in it. I have recently turned my attention to photography and I’m combining that with my love of pool and billiards whenever an opportunity presents itself. My favorite times away from pool are with my grandchildren or shooting something interesting in front of my lenses.

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I started out strong, defeating several solid players by significant margins. As the tournament progressed, match play got tougher and tougher. After defeating former APA National 8-Ball Champion, Terry Young and a seasoned player by the name of Shaun Murphy, I found myself pitted against arguably one of the best straight pool players in the world. My opponent was New York City’s Michael Yednak.

In 2014, the Rio Hotel and Casino played host to the BCA Pool League National 8-Ball Championships. After claiming “Player of the Year” honors from my local league, I traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, to compete against the best BCA players in the nation. The format was double elimination, race to 6.

Near the end of our session, I was trailing by one game when I decided to play a safety leaving Michael with the shot shown below. Generally, I try to out-manage my opponents. This game was a textbook example of what I usually do when I am in control (having several of my balls left on the table while my opponent only has one or two of his balls remaining). In fact, I didn’t want to begin running any of my balls until the time was right. Removing balls from the table before you are a prohibitive favorite to run out generally lowers your success rate. This is because every time you remove a ball from the table, you are removing future shot options and potential blockers, which could be used for safety play.

By Anthony Beeler

In recent months, Yednak had defeated Earl Strickland. I knew that Michael was an extremely knowledgeable player, and I also knew that I was going to have my hands full in our upcoming match. During the first few games, we found ourselves in a nip-and-tuck safety battle. The match seesawed back and forth, and I was beginning to feel as though I had a legitimate chance to win the match.

Michael got into his stance and took several slow warm-up strokes. He then kicked at the 15 with left spin and lots of speed. Not only was I amazed that he recognized the shot, but I was more amazed at his precise execution. Not only did Michael pocket the 15 ball, but he also hit the shot in such a way that the cue ball landed in the perfect position to pocket the 8-ball for the win. “I am a straight pool player,” Michael said as he pocketed the ball. My reply was, “I don’t care if you are. I will leave you there all day long. I really like my chances from there!” “I agree! You are right,” Michael laughed, knowing he was fortunate to win the game.

Michael was clearly snookered behind my one and five, and as I walked away from the table, I was confident that I was in complete control of the game. In fact, Yednak knew that he was locked up tight. His only shot was to kick at his 15 and play it off my three into the opposite corner pocket. As Michael surveyed the table, it became clear to him that he only had one viable option. “Off the stack and into the corner pocket,” he said. At that point, my thoughts were, “What is this, maybe a one out of 50 make?”

The lesson here is never to be afraid to shoot at something low percentage when you are a big underdog. Sometimes shooting at a 1 or 2 percent make may be better odds than trying to outmanage your opponent. Remember to be creative and look for ways to win. Many times, it may be almost impossible to win a safety battle when you have only one ball remaining and your opponent has several. Always try to give yourself the best opportunity to win, and over the course of time, you will win some games even when things appear to be hopeless.

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Anthony Beeler is the 2018 Pool Instructor of the Year and is a former BCAPL National 9-Ball Champion. He has numerous top 25 national finishes and is one of only 8 ACS Master Instructors in the world. He is the primary author of the National Billiards Instructors Manual and 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 competition.

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By Patrick Sampey

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Kaylee likes to fish, the outdoors, and playing golf. Golf and pool relate in some ways Kaylee and I agree as we continue the interview. Golf is a stroke and muscle memory, as is pool. Similarities of the Hobby she plays with golf, and her career choice in pool.

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“Any event I’m invited to, I’m going to try to be in,” McIntosh says of her desire to compete in as many WPBA sanctioned events she is able to attend.

Of Her pool gear, Kaylee says:

“I got through some tough players to get where I was at,” McIntosh concludes of her recent tournament performance.

“Billiards Livestream, they gifted me a

Tuesday, August 30, 2022 – 24 year old Kaylee McIntosh just recently placed 4th in the WPBA Soaring Eagle Masters, and she has played in 5 WPBA events this year now, battling against some of the world’s best female pool players, as she tests her mettle against the field, and she is obviously doing quite well. Fourth place is well within striking distance to first, which is Kaylee’s ultimate goal, to hold up that first place trophy, and she lost to Fisher and Ouschan, who came in 2nd, and 1st, lost 8-5 to Fisher, just 3 racks away – close.

She has an AA degree, but don’t look for her to be returning to college anytime soon,

says Brittany Bryant is her favorite female player, and that to show how she respects the game and players, “I like how she’s helping the younger players out…she’s just trying to improve the sport,” Kaylee said. Her favorite male player is Efren Reyes, and you can’t go wrong with Reyes either.

JFlowers break cue. I bought a Mezz cue off a guy I used to play league with. I also bought a Jacoby jump cue, so everything I’ve got, I either purchased myself, or it was given to me.” – McIntosh. Also, she has a Lucasi 4x8 soft case. And her Mezz playing cue features and “Ignite” carbon fiber shaft McIntosh also Kayleesaid.

Kaylee plays 9 ball, 10 ball, and one pocket. “I honestly like one pocket. I don’t play it as often as I’d like to, but one pocket is a really interesting game, and it’s probably one of my favorites, even though I don’t play it that often,” Kaylee said.

As to upcoming WPBA tournaments, Kaylee mentioned events coming up in September, October, then December this year, and planning to enter those contests, as she continues to push forward to the next possible first place win.

because she’s going all-in on this billiards gig, going after her dreams, and making moves in the women’s professional pool.

As far as pool instructors go, McIntosh flies solo, and is a self taught player, referencing YouTube videos of players like Niels Feijen – a Dutch professional pool player, nicknamed “the Terminator”, and in 2014 he won the WPA World 9-ball championship; it would appear that players like Feijen, Reyes, Bryant are the type Kaylee would most like to emulate if anyone. “Basically, I’m self taught, other than a few lessons here and there,” McIntosh concludes –mentioning that Jeanette Lee has given her a couple pointers at one point or another years Additionally,ago.

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Players get invited to WPBA events through emails, which they accept or decline the invitation. There are also WPBA qualifying events as well.

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Iron City Billiards

TSP (Eric Nelson)

“I was able to play my first WPBA event because there was a regional qualifier down here in Florida, that I qualified for,” Kaylee says, of her road to being able to compete in the WPBA Also,events.McIntosh believes that pool for juniors is doing well in the USA – that the future of the sport, the up and coming young players have a bright future, as does the game of pocket Shebilliards.said the WPBA appears to be sending out more invites to junior players, which is great for pool – after all, the youth is the future. And Kaylee, though she is obviously an adult at 24, but a young adult, and also the future of the game – with many years, and wins, and WPBA events to play along the way.

Kaylee McIntosh is an up and coming player, 2022 has been her breakout year. Look for her for many years to come. Tallahassee Squirrel out for now. Until next time, keep hitting them balls.

Billiard Live Stream Capow Tips and Cue Repair (Nate Capo)”

– Kaylee McIntosh.

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All in all, the interview with Kaylee went well. Hopefully this is another addition to the landscape of billiards at large, as we at SPM continue to cover all things pool and billiards.

“I think junior pool is doing pretty good right now. They’re building a future for pool, that’s for sure,” McIntosh said.

From A Recent Facebook Post By Kaylee:

I’m also excited to play in a local Florida ladies event, September 3rd-4th. It’s been a while since I’ve played an event on a bar box so it’s going to be fun.

“I’m happy to say I’ll be attending the WPBA Predator event in Michigan, September 21-25.

Big Thank You to my sponsors. I wouldn’t be able to do this without your help.

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Ford Ford III - 2019 PNW Women’s Tournament – 15th St Grill in Au-

Sandro Menzel is based in the Seattle area and Specializes Billiards and

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Kim Jones - 2019 PNW Women’s Tournament – 15th St Grill in Auburn, WA

Automotive Photography

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Jocelyn Dwan - 2014 NWPA Tour Stop at Black Diamond Billiards – Spokane, WA

Xiaoting Pan jump shot - 2012 WPBA Tour Championship – Lincoln City, OR

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Jessica Human - 2012 WPBA Tour Championship – Lincoln City, OR

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Dexter Ambang - 2019 Memorial Weekend 9-Ball @ 15th Street Grill – Auburn, WA

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Jackie Karol 30

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Okay, then answer this, fellow pool shooter. How do you know for certain if your skills are improving overall? What if I can show you a way to make practice fun, even as you see yourself progressing toward increasing your average? I can. Want to know how? It’s through the time-tested method of training drills--fun drills, all, but they need to be done. I turned pro at a young age and used these drills and ones like them to get there.

By Dominic Esposito, a.k.a., The Drill Instructor

This month’s featured drill provides some tough challenges that can result in your making a lot more clutch shots with cue ball shape in the field:

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Do you want to play better or not? I have the rudiments that will push you past the plateaus that seem to hold you back. Now stop your whining and let’s get to it, Pool Player!

Why Is BecomeCanBoring?PracticePoolHowItfun?

Do you agree with the formula: Pocket Billiards + Practice = Boredom? You can be honest. Sure, most pool players would agree as well.

This drill perfects your shot making skills for balls that are in the center of the table.

1. Start with ball-in-hand from either end of the table.

1. Start with ball-in-hand and from either end of the table as shown--your choice.

2. From the first ball pocketed, continue pocketing the balls (in any pocket) in their successive order as they are lined up the table.

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3. Avoid hitting any of the other balls on each shot. If you miss a shot or hit another ball, reset the line, and start over.

3. Avoid running into any of the other balls on each shot. If you miss a shot or hit another ball, reset the line and start again.

Nothing increases your personal playing skills like solid practice drills. They develop your utmost in focused concentration, isolate effective shot making and establish your pace for technique and execution. Your overall player skill level will be improved through practicing my professional drills like the one below.

This month’s fun drill is called, Walking the Line.

Level 2 is for Advanced Players.

During your next match, as you survey the table layout, take notice as to how many shots resemble those shots from this month’s drill. You can then shoot the shots in the match with confidence like they are part of this drill!

Sure, you’ll still miss pocketing a ball from time to time as a result of bad aim or a missed stroke--everyone does---but with your new focus on your drills, you won’t be the person you used to be at the table.

The Drill can be adjusted for Beginner to Advanced Level Players. We’ll start with Level 1

2. Shoot any ball in any of the six pockets on the table in any order.

Learning The Drill Instructor Way will make practice fun because you’ll be winning more than ever before.

Did you like this drill? Visit DI-TV and join today. All the Pro Skill Drills table layout and videos are up there plus so much more. On the website, you can inquire about private lessons or attending a Boot Camp Pool School with The Drill Instructor.

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First, let’s talk about the main event. I drew Chia Hua ‘Amber’ Chen first round, whom ended up winning the champion title after defeating one of my idols, Allison Fisher, twice in the shootout round. I was really nervous before our match after I watched some of Amber’s past matches on YouTube. Her cue ball control is phenomenal! It did not surprise me. She ended up winning our match with a 4-0, 4-0 score and shut me out. Not only did I not play my best game, I only had a few opportunities, and I failed to capitalize when they happened.

y first out-of-country tournament was the Predator Canada Open in August. My family and I flew into Calgary, and we drove to Red Deer. This tournament would mark my 4th WPBA-sanctioned event since the beginning of the year. This predator pro billiard series was the first time the Predator Apex 7’ table debut to the public; I was so excited to try the tables and decided to sign up for the CSI Western Canadian Junior 8 Ball Championship alongside with the Predator Pro Billiard Series.

In the third match of the event, I drew Kyoko Sone from Japan. I met Kyoko from previous events, and I knew she is a top-seeded touring pro. I felt the pressure, but I also knew there was nothing I could do besides trying my best. I was able to capitalize on the opportunities

By Savannah “The RoadRunner” Easton

Some of you may not know this; I love to play on TV tables. I feel like I play my best games when I’m under pressure. I have learned to zone into the match, my arena, and ignore the cameras, thanks to my parents for streaming most of my matches since I started competing. It really helps with my game, and it trained me to be comfortable with the camera. I was able to squeak in a win against Toni with a 4-2, 4-3 final score without going into a shootout.

The same night, I drew a Canadian player, Toni Sakamoto; our match was scheduled on the main TV stream table, with a 30 seconds shot clock and John Leyman as the referee. I grew up watching John on TV! And to have him as our referee was just exciting! I had no experience with playing under the pressure of a shot clock; all I knew was I will have one extension allowed each rack. I played at my own pace the entire match and was able to execute all of my decisions without using my allowed extension except for one jump shot.

Photo by Tiffany Easton Mark White Predator/CSI Commentator & Savannah Easton

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I was given and won the first set with a 4-3 score. At that moment, I told myself I had a chance. A chance to win against a touring pro! In the second set, Kyoko did not give me many opportunities. She played almost flawless like she always does. And I ended up losing our second set with a 4-1 score.

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Photo by Cameron Easton

We went straight into the shootout round from there. I have practiced my spot shots religiously just for this! My record at home was 13 spot shots in a row without missing one. But I also knew my opponents practiced the same shots before coming into this format. Since I won our lag, I had the option to shoot first, and I chose to shoot first. We both made our 1st, 3rd and 4th shots and missed our 2nd shot. And when this happens, we go into sudden death rounds where the object ball will move further away from the cue ball. The first player to make the ball will win the entire match. After the referee set up the shot, I could see a crowd of people around our table from the corner of my eyes. I looked back to the object ball and shot; I missed. Kyoko walked up to the table, I saw she took a few deep breaths before her shot, and Kyoko did what Kyoko does, she made the ball, center pocket. That ended my run at the main event. I was disappointed at myself, but I also know, I have nothing to lose at this time. Just being able to compete against the top ranked female players at this point of my pool journey, it’s an honor. I have learned so much from every single one of them. I am grateful to have this opportunity and it is the best experience I could ever ask for. Thank you, WPBA, and thank you, Predator.

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Overall, I had a great experience in Canada. My family and I went to Banff after the tournament before we went home. Everyone was extremely friendly to me. I even got the chance to commentate on Caroline Pao and Bean Hung’s quarter-final match with Mark White!!! He is funny! Commentating is one of my favorite things to do! I love the game of pool, and I am loving every opportunity that I am having right now.

Now, on to the CSI Western Canadian Junior 8 Ball Championship. I first have to give a review on the Predator Apex 7’ tables; the tables are beautiful! The matte black table with a glossy Predator logo just looks really attractive, in my opinion! I had played on several 7’ during the two days, and they all played extremely well and solid. I especially love the flat pockets, and I find them easy to bridge over. I also noticed that there are ‘springs’ inside of each pocket to minimize the noise when the balls were dropping. The rails banked true, and the table speed was absolutely perfect. I felt very comfortable playing on the tables, and the final match was also played on the CSI TV stream table. I was able to pull off the champion title and only gave up 3 racks in the entire tournament.

Savannah ‘The Roadrunner’ Easton

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Photography Credit to Cameron Easton , Tiffany Easton, and many tha ks to Tiffany Easton for supplying the photos of Savannah Easton at the Predator Pro Series Canada Open at Red Deer.

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Photo by Tiffany Easton

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Photo by Sandro Menzel

By Kat Day

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Mary also played at the Predator Pro Billiard Series Canada Open. She is now at the Texas Open on her home turf and is currently playing in the Women’s 9-ball tournament. So far, Mary is winning with a 7-2 victory against Christy Grigsby and will soon be playing Crystal Jones. Mary went to the

loser’s side, winning 7-1 against Juli Bloom. “I was not in a great frame of mind to come to the Texas Open. The Texas Open is a super difficult event. Outstanding and notable players all show up to play. That said, I had a couple of fantastic matches that I played awesomely. Unfortunately, I also had some not-so-great matches. In the end, I was one match out of the money. I needed more time to recover. There is always next year,” states Mary Avina.

ary Avina is a 29-year-old Trick Shot artist, Snooker Player, Pool player and instructor, and more. It has been a pleasure to get to know her and interview her on SPM TV and for this article in SPM Magazine! Mary has thrived in her entrepreneurial billiards career. Mary has been on the road for the last few weeks traveling to Canada for the Predator Pro Billiard Series Canada Open (WPBA) and then to Seattle for the first US Women’s Snooker Tournament and then instructing and on to the Texas Open.

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Only eight players remained at the inaugural US Women’s Snooker Open, and Mary Avina was one of them!

Yes, and yes. It is just a matter of when, while I’m already invited to play Snooker all over the world, I don’t feel comfortable doing that till I can put in a lot more proper training. I want to represent the USA in the best light.

While in Canada, Avina had the opportunity to give some instruction to Blake Holmes!

Describe your experience so far going on a 2-week tour, and what did you get out of all of it?

Mary states, “Yes, teaching coaching is satisfying because I’m sharing my love and expertise of the game with the world. A winwin for everybody. It feels great to guide someone to a higher level of performance.

Mary took the time to answer some questions for me, and here they are:

Tell me about your experience at the Canada Predator Pro Series event. What is the next WPBA event you see yourself playing in?

You placed 5th in the First US Women’s Snooker tournament in the United States. Are you looking forward to playing more events, and if so, will you be traveling to the UK?

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Then when someone I have guided does well as Blake did, it shows me that my efforts were well spent. It’s a fantastic feeling of satisfaction of a job well done.”

It was an extension of the joy I have been feeling since my first WPBA event, The Billiard Expo. I’m incredibly fortunate that the female pros I grew up watching are now my Theopponents.nextWPBA events I’m supposed to play are Predators Battle Creek Michigan this month. Then the next month, the Helena Memorial “The Sledgehammer Open” at Borderline Billiards.

“I was incredibly proud to represent the USA at the US Women’s Snooker Open 2022... 5-8th or quarterfinalists, as the English would say. However, the practical pro in me cares far more about the game than the money, no matter what you call it. I’m incredibly happy about the outcome of my first snooker tournament ever.” States Mary Avina in a recent post on Facebook.

Photo by The Sparrow

I approach all Pro and Open events the same way. The way I learned it as a kid from the Filipinos. You train a lot, then train more, then more. Show up and do your best if you do that enough times. Good things happen.

No, not at all. I learned many years ago as a kid, when I used to play Snooker for money, how to balance Snooker and pool. The big training problem I have now is not having a snooker table nearby to train for the many daily hours necessary to compete at the highest level.

About the playing, the Snooker was far more satisfying. The NPR interview promoting Snooker was fantastic. That and finishing well also was deeply satisfying.

How do you see yourself proceeding in the future and WPBA events?

In Year one, I did about 7 hours a day, rarely taking a day off. Nowadays, I do at least a couple of hours daily, assuming I’m not on the road teaching or competing. I still do sevenhour sessions while working on a specific part of my game.

Career: How many hours are you spending per day to perfect your game now and at the beginning?

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Does your pool training interfere with your training for Snooker?

You are obviously far more well-rounded than most professional pool players, with being the best female at trick shots, top at teaching billiards, Snooker, and now playing professional 9-ball. Can you tell how and in what order this came about?

So, I first Mastered Bar Box 8-Ball in Southern California. Then I moved to a small town

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After I finally left my house in the quest to find the star for a movie I wrote, instead drama found me. This unforeseen online troll and hater drama drove people to my trick-shot videos and website. Overnight I was told I was a billiard celebrity. New opportunities came. Like paid exhibitions all over the country, a new money backer, selling

When I moved back to Southern California for a minute, I made a living playing small 8-Ball tournaments. I paused when I got my first billiard table, a 100-year-old Brunswick 10x5 snooker table. I put the table together myself and was so happy; it was a dream come true. In Riverside, CA, in a second-story apartment, alone practicing all day, I mastered the masse. I did not leave my house for over three months. I mastered trick shots by breaking regular cues and making trick shot cues.

At what age did you turn professional, and when did you begin entering tournaments and earning money from the Peoplegame?

began to call me professional from year one since I was winning almost every time and making money playing for money. So, I guess I was a part-time pro. Every year more and more people decided I was professional. By my measure, I became professional in 2013 because that’s the year I started to make all my living entirely from billiards. I was 20 years old.

Photo by The Sparrow

called Cambria on the central California coast, where on 10x5 Snooker, I played over a thousand money games in just over a year.

billiard products, and so on. All this led to me relocating to Texas, where I live comfortably.

Now for billiards, I rejected most want-to-be teachers and mentors. As I take mentorship seriously, most players don’t meet my strict standards. That was until I became part of the Filipino pack at Hard Times Bellflower, the most hardcore Billiard Room in the Southern California billiard scene. I met and became friends with many like-minded players, Jun Almoite, Efren Reyes, Francisco Bustamante, and so on. As a group, they had a far more practical approach to how to carry yourself as a billiard pro and how to make money from it. From them, I learned the most.

Teaching one person at a time is great too. Most of my live students are leaders in their group, usually a billiard league or organization. What I teach them, they use to guide others. That is deeply satisfying on many levels.

So, in order of Mastery, Bar-box 8-Ball, 10 x 5 Snooker, Trick Shots, Products, Teaching, and now I’m working on pro-9-Ball.

You’ve been involved in teaching and mentoring students who, like yourself, share a love of the game. What do you enjoy most about teaching students and sharing your skills and talent? Have any of your students gone onto the professional circuit and earned a living from the game like yourself?

I enjoy teaching most in video form because I can reach far more people. I have reached millions that way. I love the idea of positively benefiting the most people possible.

That skill took years to learn. It was a process. Yes, most people can get good at it. The first time I was unjustifiably attacked online, I was devastated. It broke my heart. But with much effort and life playing out like the movie Groundhog Day, I got better and better. In-person and online alike. Initially, I

My stepfather was not a pool player but a businessman. He was by far my most significant influence early on. His practical, no-nonsense life and business values shaped me, including my early approach to billiards.

You are magnificent in dealing with haters in person and online trolls. Did this come to you naturally, or is this something anyone can learn?

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Over time, you’ve managed to generate a business from your love of playing billiards. How did you go about achieving this?

must provide more value than what is given. I always aim for high-quality exchanges where both sides benefit. Careful straightforward steps strung together create great results.

Yes, pros come to me occasionally. That said, working with a high-level player is minimal teaching, instead is coaching. Coaching is a different endeavor from teaching since it mainly deals with the mental side. Sports psychology is very satisfying because you’re taking someone who is already an amazing performer and helping them with their mental hurdles to achieve a superhuman level of performance.

In 2013, I gave my first official lessons here in Texas, and I have not stopped. I have also sold 10s of thousands of instructional DVDs. I did this for years until right before the pandemic. I began to play pro and open 9-Ball tournaments. The Women’s Professional Billiard Association WPBA noticed me this year and asked me to play, and there you go...

Who shaped you and mentored you along the way in your billiard career?

I followed simple steps. For instance, every business decision had to have a logic or need outside of myself. It had to serve a customer, an audience, or a service. In other words, one

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Do you have any big unfulfilled billiard aspirations or goals? What are they?

and weaker as I inched forward little by little. It feels good overcoming such a prevalent opposing force.

For me is that I make a living playing billiards. In the beginning, I was mocked by many about my billiard goals. Many people were extraordinarily negative; they did and said horrible things. That negativity got weaker

What’s your most outstanding billiard achievement to date?

Future

Mary Avina with Sakura Muramatsu Womens Champion of the Texas Open 2022 ~ Photo by The Sparrow

had to learn to let go and understand that it is not personal. Most haters have not met the person they are attacking, so how can it be personal? Frustrated and unhappy people like to spread their misery. One does not have to share in it. Also, they tend to dry up if you ignore most invalid attentionseeking negative comments. In other words, I consciously feed positive action and starve the negative.

There are two big billiard goals I have not accomplished. To have my own billiards room. I was close twice. One as a kid and one recently. That said, I’m not in a hurry to do this. I have a lot of billiard life ahead of me. The second is to direct the billiard movie I wrote when I was a kid. When I was deeply in love with billiards. Sadly, that’s when I received my first dose of online hate. I was heartbroken, so the movie project was put

I take being a role model to young women extremely seriously. Like in showing that once the match is over, it is time to drop the competition aggression. It is time to be supportive of each other. Cooperate. Follow and support each other’s endeavors. Don’t be the naysay er. Be the supporter or doer. I strive to inspire with my actions, as actions speak louder than Marywords.would

also like to give a special Thank You to all her sponsors:

The Texas Open and not just the women. What players do you see as the future of billiards? Who are the players to keep an eye on?

Are there any major tournaments you would like to win?

Like Jeanette Lee “The Black Widow,” you are an inspirational story to lit-

Photo by The Sparrow

Mary Avina at the Texas Open

For whom to watch on the already pro-level side, I say April Larson “The Grinder” and Kristina Tkach. They will give us pro great ness joy for many years to come. Now, there are so many great young players coming up. The two that stand out most in my mind are Savannah “The Road Runner” Easton and Sofia Mast “Pink Dagger.” They are part of the bright future of our sport.

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tle girls and women coming up in the game. How seriously do you take this new and future responsibility as a role model?

on the shelf. It’s the closest I came to quitting billiards. I would love to overcome and film it one day.

Fort Worth Billiards Bull LegendsCarbonSports Bar Shotzee’s Bar & Grill Texas Scenery Construction

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US Women’s Snooker Open, Seattle ~ Diana Schuler

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US Women’s Snooker Open, Seattle ~ Emma Parker

US Women’s Snooker Open, Seattle ~ Jamie Hunter Champion

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US Women’s Snooker Open, Seattle ~ Mary Talbot-Deegan

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US Women’s Snooker Open, Seattle ~ Mary Avina

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US Women’s Snooker Open, Seattle ~ Mary Avina

By Brian Pauley

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around the age of 13/14.

What do you think has been the factors that have allowed you to get better in the game?

unior pool is on fire! Almost daily, you see social media posts about a junior player finishing high in a tournament. The crop of junior players getting out there and making a name for themselves is a great group of kids. There are more avenues for juniors now than ever before. It started with the BEF, and now there are multiple league organizations that offer junior leagues as well as many in-house junior leagues in pool rooms across the nation. The JIC is another contributing factor in allowing these talented juniors to show what they can do and to get some name recognition.

I was introduced to pool as a young kid but never thought about taking it seriously until

How did you get introduced to pool, and how old were you?

I got selected for the world championship by getting 5th place at BEF Nationals.

Who has been your toughest opponent?

I practice every day for at least 3 hours a day, and my practice consists of doing drills. After I complete the drills, I like to play the ghost.

I would say my boy Lazaro Martinez.

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there are talented players that maybe many fans have not heard too much about. Say hello to Dustin Muir from Ohio. Dustin has been competing in the BEF for years, as well as the JIC events and many tournaments around the Midwest. Dustin has a great attitude when it comes to playing the game. He is serious when it comes to playing but is all about having fun with his team and/ or other players after the match. Last month there were three teams of juniors invited to play for Team USA at the 2022 WPA Predator World Junior 9- Ball Championships that will be held in Puerto Rico in November, and Dustin will join 4 other players in the U19 Boys division.

How did you get selected for the World Junior 9 Ball Championship?

I try to play in as many as I can, but it is hard with my job. When I am able to go, I usually place anywhere from 4th place to 7/8th.

Likewise,knows.

Sky Woodward and Fedor Gorst would have to be my top 2.

Many juniors are also playing in tournaments that more mainly for adults and placing in the money, and often winning. Such events as the Predator 10 Ball Championships, the US Open 9 Ball Championships, and the Super Billiards Expo Men’s Pro 10 Ball Event see the participation of these junior players. It is through all these avenues that junior players can carve out their own place in the pool world, with many getting multiple sponsor deals with companies in the industry. Just like in pool, there are the names that everyone

How often do you practice, and what does your practice entail?

Favorite game to play and least favorite game to play and why?

Favorite game would have to be banks because of the creativity and least would be one pocket because of how inpatient I am.

J

How many JIC events do you normally play in, and where do you normally finish?

Definitely would be the people around me, especially some of my friends on the JIC tour. That has helped me with my mental game as well.

Who are some of the pro players of today that you look up to, and why?

I don’t have a specific coach, but I have been blessed to receive lessons from Denny Stewart, Dee Adkins, and Cody Myers. They have been a huge help to me.

Do you have a coach? If yes, then how do they teach you, and what are the highlights of what you have learned from them?

When was the moment that you felt you “arrived” in the junior pool scene?

For sure, when I received my invitation to play for Team USA.

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

The Derby City Classic, US Open, hopefully, the Mosconi Cup.

I hope to see myself on the pro circuit, winning major titles. It would be a blessing.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would play Efren so I could see his creativity and execution live in person.

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What are some bucket list tournaments you want to play in?

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to use my area as an example. Locally, we have 4 pool halls, all with their own loyal patrons. Once a month, each establishment could run a “qualifier round” Whoever wants to try out for the pool hall’s “Home Team” can do so. The top 5 players from each qualifier round would be on the pool hall’s team. Once a month, the

The establishments would need to buy into the league, which would get them “Home Team” shirts, scorecards & a “Home Team” trophy. To play in the qualifier rounds, there will need to be a small fee collected from every player, which would cover the cash prizes. Another benefit for the establishments is that only 2 tables will be used for the match day. Again, this example is for my area with only 4 pool halls. As the Points Players League grows & other areas join, the situations may change. It’s a simple system that’s inexpensive to operate & the level

I

I’mbar.going

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t’s time to build a brand-new pool league using the billiards game, Points. The Points Players League will be completely different from any other. It must be. So many players are already in other leagues. Players don’t have very much time to commit to another league. There are some teams out there that have had the same players for years. I have a plan which doesn’t take away very much from any other commitments & many more players will have a chance to represent their favorite local establishment, whether it’s a pool hall, American Legion, sports pub, or the local dive

establishments would host the league night, where all four teams will play for a cash prize & the covenant trophies. It’s a friendly rivalry between the four local pool halls. Every month the teams will change because of the qualifier rounds. It’s only a very short commitment from the players & many others will have a chance to be on the home team representing their pool hall.

By Albert Charbonneau

Personally, I play Points with a 16-shot limit, including the break & that’s how I would run the league here in my area. However, there are no restrictions on the shot limit & because there are 2 methods for playing Points, it makes the whole experience flexible & interchangeable. For one month, teams can play with a set shot limit of their choosing or to reach a set point amount, then switch it up

In the “qualifier rounds,” each player would play two games with their best score being used. The top 5 players represent the establishment for that month. The qualifier rounds should take place closest to the beginning of the month, so the teams have a chance to practice together for a few weeks before the big end-of-the-month match.

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The match day should be closest to the end of the month & rotated, so the businesses still have openings for other commitments

The small fee for entering the “qualifier rounds” should not exceed $10 IMHO, but that can be determined by the businesses & players. If they want a bigger payout for the winning team, then so be it. However, raising it too high might discourage players from trying out for the teams. Keeping the fee low ensures a better turnout.

throughout the year. (Each business would host once every 4 months) A “Blind Draw” should be used to pick which team member plays 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th, with the 5th being the last match for each team. The team with the overall best score is the winner. The winning team members split the cash prize, which was collected from every player during the qualifier rounds. (Potential for BIG money!) The best part is that the winning business gets the trophies for the month.

.

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for the next month.

Albertall!Charbonneau

Stay tuned to Sneaky Pete Mafia magazine for everything Points related or ask to join the Points Players League Facebook group. Thank you

Finally, I would really like to see a “Best of the Best” Match-Up between the highest scoring team member from each establishment. There should be something special for the winner of that battle! Eventually, as the Points Players League grows, a trip to Vegas for a oncea-year showdown of the very best Points players from around the country (or world.) I will be announcing the launch date very soon.

- Inventor of the billiards game Points & the Points Players League

Photo’s By Albert Charbonneau

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By Patrick

Sampey74

‘ I cannot believe it,’ said Chen through her partner, Robbie Capito. ‘This is my first international tournament after the pandemic, so I didn’t expect much coming into the tournament, so I am very happy with the win.’” – https://probilliardseries.com/predatorcanada-open/chen-wins-predator-canada-open/

hia Hua Chen defeated Allison Fisher in a shootout for the second time this week to mark her return to international competition by winning the Predator Canada Open. Fisher had to come through the one-loss side to reach single elimination after her first match of the tournament had ended in defeat to Chen, who didn’t lose during the event…

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C

Also of note is the fact that Chen is only 22 years young but showed the experience of a wellseasoned veteran in the exchange. Then, up 3-2 and breaking, Chen lost control of the cue ball and got kicked in the top left corner pocket, where she was breaking from, which is to say, Allison Fisher had another opportunity at the table, missing a ball-in-hand shot, setting it up for Chen to win the first race to 4. Chen played lock-up safeties to stifle Fisher in the exchange. Fisher missed kick shots on a couple of occasions.

Chen, who goes by Amber Chen, defeated Fisher in the shootout in the WPBA ( Women’s Professional Billiards Association) Predator Canadian Open, winning 3-2 in the shootout that ensued. The finals were two races to four, where there would be a “shootout” for the title. The shootout involves a spot shot and then making it with cue ball in hand behind the head string. Chen won the first set. Fisher missed a straight-in 6-ball shot, showing a lapse of concentration, and appearing to take her eyes off the ball, missing a routine shot nonetheless.

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Fisher missed the routine 6 ball straight in at 2-2 in the first set, giving Chen an opportunity. Fisher didn’t appear to be on her A game, and Chen capitalized on Allison’s letdown in the first set. Suffice it to say, Fisher had the opportunity to go up 3-2 but missed it.

All in all, a very stylish event, with top-notch pool play, the resurgence of Allison Fisher, and newcomer Amber Chen rising in women’s professional pool. What an interesting, entertaining final, with Amber Chen rising to take her place among women’s professional pool billiards champions, new and old.

A little update on Amber Chen, she has officially made it to the final 16 at the Predator Pro Billiard Series Women’s 10-ball in Klagenfurt, Austria. Chen is still on the winning streak. She has won all of her matches so far, beating April Larson 7-3, then onto the next match against Allison Fisher, winning 7-5! What will this young rising star do next?

all black, with blue accents on her shirt, black slacks, polished black shoes, black glove, and smartwatch – well put together, with a black belt with a silver belt buckle to complete her ensemble. Fisher playing with the black carbon fiber pool shaft.

Follow Amber Chen at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100004352916344

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You can follow Chia Hua Chen, a.k.a Amber Chen, at the Predator Pro Billiard Series in the Women’s 10-Ball Championship in Klagenfurt, Austria! https://cuescore.com/tournament/ bracket/?id=17973148 and watch her game against Allison Fisher at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=6X2vlQ5fb5U

Chen, wearing all black, with the white bow in her hair, completing her ponytail, and the red glove on her left, bridge hand – her sponsors on the sleeves of her shirt. Then! Chen missed the 10 ball, but left Fisher a tough shot. Fisher left a tough bank, which Chen drilled in, and pumped her fist in victory, showing emotion for the first time in the match, normally a stoic Fisherplayer.wore

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