The World Nineball Tour is set to take the USA by storm this August with an electrifying lineup of tournaments spanning coast to coast. Featuring five thrilling events, including two prestigious Matchroom Majors, this landmark month cements America’s position as a powerhouse destination on the global nineball stage.
WNT AUGUST AMERICA TOUR
• Rally in the Shenandoah Valley
31 July – 2 August, Virginia Prize Fund: $32,400
• Florida Open Pool Championship
5-10 August, Florida Prize Fund: $200,000
• Battle of the Bull
13-16 August, Virginia Prize Fund: $70,000
• US Open Pool Championship
18-23 August, New Jersey Prize Fund: $500,000
• McDermott Classic
29-31 August, Massachusetts Prize Fund: $25,000
TOTAL PRIZE FUND: $827,400
TICKETS ON SALE SOON FOR BOTH THE INAUGURAL FLORIDA OPEN AND THE HISTORIC US OPEN SIGN UP TO TICKET ALERTS HERE CATCH ALL THE AUGUST ACTION ON WNT TV, THE NEW HOME OF EVERYTHING NINEBALL
Kicking off the WNT’s American summer is the Rally in the Shenandoah Valley at On Cue Sports Bar & Grill in Front Royal, Virginia. This Bronze-tier WNT Ranking Event offers a $32,400 prize fund, drawing top-tier talent to compete in an intense showdown in the heart of Virginia.
the USA is proving to be a true hub for elite nineball competition
All eyes then shift to Orlando, Florida, as the Florida Open Pool Championship makes its grand debut at the stunning Caribe Royale Resort. This new Matchroom Major boasts a $200,000 prize fund and will see the world’s best players battle for a historic first title in the Sunshine State.
The action continues with another high-stakes showdown in Virginia as Battle of the Bull takes center stage at Wolf’s Den Billiards, Roanoke. With a grand $70,000 prize pot, this event is set to attract the fiercest competitors looking to climb the rankings.
The month’s crown jewel arrives in Atlantic City, New Jersey, with the US Open Pool Championship, the most historic nineball event in the world, celebrating its 48th edition at Harrah’s Resort. With a glorious $500,000 prize fund and a champion’s purse of $100,000, this Matchroom Major will once again deliver world-class drama as the sport’s biggest stars chase one of the most prestigious titles in cue sports.
Closing out the WNT’s explosive August swing is the McDermott Classic, a Bronze-tier WNT Ranking Event, at Amazin Billiards, Malden, Massachusetts. With $25,000 in prize money, this event provides a crucial opportunity for players to make their mark before the tour moves into the autumn calendar.
Emily Frazer, CEO of Matchroom Multi Sport, said: “The WNT’s expansion across America is a game-changer for professional pool. With two huge Matchroom Majors and key ranking events throughout August, the USA is proving to be a true hub for elite nineball competition. TheFloridaOpenandtheUSOpenPoolChampionship, alongside exciting ranking events, will deliver nonstop action for players and fans alike. This is what the future of professional nineball looks like.”
With WNT TV providing exclusive coverage in the USA, alongside an array of global broadcasters ensuring international fans don’t miss a moment, August is set to be an unforgettable month for the World Nineball Tour.
For all the latest updates, follow Matchroom Pool on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.
Perhaps the most important aspect of a player’s game is the ability to deliver a straight smooth stroke on demand. Without a good stroke, it’s virtually impossible to deliver the tip through the cue ball with precision and accuracy. A good stroke is characterized by a perfect pendulum motion. As the stroke finishes, and the grip hand goes up, a player’s tip should go down.
It’s important to note that you need to have your grip hand at 90-95 degrees when the tip is in the “set” position (when the tip is almost touching the cue ball and you are getting ready to shoot). Striking the cue ball when your grip hand is pointed straight to the floor is essential because this is the most level your stroke will ever be. If you strike the cue ball when your grip hand is less than 90 degrees, the tip is already on its way down toward the felt.
Three common flaws can prohibit you from delivering a perfect pendulum stroke. In this month’s article, we will address all three.
NOT FINISHING YOUR STROKE
The most common reason a player’s tip may not reach the felt is that they may not be finishing their stroke. After winning a pro tournament in the 1980’s Mike Sigel had a bruise on his chest. When asked where the bruise came from Mike explained it was from finishing his stroke perfectly on every shot. Finishing your stroke high may result in you hitting your chest. Just don’t hit it as hard as Mike!
ELBOW DROP:
If your elbow drops, it’s very common for the tip to either finish fairly level or with an upward motion. Usually, this is a result of poor stroke mechanics. However, many of today’s players are now emphasizing elbow drops and are finishing with a more level delivery. In most circumstances, this is not the norm. Unless you are playing at or near the pro level, stick with the perfect pendulum motion. Work on your elbow drop so that your tip finishes on the felt.
THE DEATH GRIP:
Believe it or not, gripping the cue stick too tightly can also cause your tip not to reach the felt. If this is the case, I recommend that you practice gripping the cue with the index finger and thumb only. Do this for about 3 weeks and learn the correct cue action. Once you learn the correct stroking motion then add two more fingers but not the pinky. The pinky finger is normally the culprit for causing a twisted motion or crooked stroke. Leave the pinky finger off the cue if you want to shoot straight.
Don’t fall victim to any of the stroke flaws mentioned above. When you finish your stroke always ask yourself “Where’s my tip?” Always finish with your tip touching the felt or at the very least it should be heading in a downward direction. If your tip is not heading down, ask yourself why. Most likely It’s from one of the reasons mentioned above. Eliminate all three stroke flaws from your game and your accuracy will improve significantly.
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 competition.
CURRENT RATINGS
CURRENT RATINGS
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines longevity as “long continuance, permanence, durability.” Longevity in any field is a great accomplishment, especially in an ever-changing industry such as billiards. Fads come and go. One day everyone wants the “shiny new toy,” and the next day everyone moves on to something
else. Products come and go. Tours come and go. It is a testament to those companies that have lasted as long as they have in an ever-changing landscape. One of those companies is McDermott Cue, celebrating 50 years in business this year.
I can see why Jim is very well respected across the industry.
Based in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, McDermott Cue has been a staple in the billiards industry. Many players’ first cue was a McDermott cue and still find themselves going back to that first cue. The company has had many innovations throughout the years that are still used in the industry. Founded by Jim McDermott in 1975, the company continues Jim’s vision of craftsmanship and durability.
I had the chance to sit down with Jayme Cernicka, customer service manager and 25-year company veteran. Jayme is one of the faces you see in videos about McDermott and in the booths at the Super Billiards Expo and the APA World Championships. There aren’t many people who know McDermott Cue like Jayme. To this day, he is “batting a thousand” at identifying the model numbers of every cue he has seen in the booth, just by looking at it.
What are some of the innovations that McDermott is known for that most people may not know?
There are several, but I’d start with our industry-leading finish. 5-coats of urethane are electrostatically applied and cured via ultraviolet light. The electrostatic application results in a very durable, clear, and consistent finish that really makes the beauty of the cue shine through. We hold multiple patents across our product line. Our H-Series is the first line of cues ever to feature the fully adjustable . This breakthrough is made possible by our patented new technology that combines a full-length carbon fiber core with a rail on which the weights can be repositioned forward or backward inside the cue. No other cue allows you to have this much control over both the weight and balance.
One thing McDermott is known for is The Intimidator cue. A few things related to that. What is the story behind it? Why make something like that? How many years to make? What did the employees who made it think? What did fans who saw it in person think? Do you know where it is now?
The Intimidator cue definitely has an interesting history. Jim McDermott wanted to attract attention to McDermott’s capabilities and address the misconception that we could only make “mass production” cues.
The goal was to create a unique design that had never been done, and it certainly achieved that. Between the bladesmiths, engravers, and assembly crew at McDermott; over 1800 hours were spent to create this one-of-a-kind fantasy art masterpiece. Fans really loved the medieval theme and would make special plans to view it in person when it traveled to various events. It was eventually sold to a private collector in Europe.
What was Jim McDermott like and how was it to work with him?
Jim had retired by the time I started in 1999, but I did have a chance to meet him several times. He was always very nice and happy to share stories and advice. I can see why Jim is very well respected across the industry. I’ve spoken with employees who worked with Jim, and he demanded a lot from his staff. He really valued a strong work ethic. Attendance, punctuality, and willingness to learn were paramount attributes he would seek.
Jim was always an innovator and
risk-taker.
What do you think Jim’s Legacy will be?
Jim was always an innovator and risk-taker. He pushed the envelope on how he could build a cue better and faster with top quality always being the primary goal. He was the pioneer who brought the now-popular 3/8”-10 joint to the forefront, among many other innovations. He started as a small cue repair hobbyist and with unparalleled dedication grew that into an iconic global brand. I feel the billiard industry is a better place because of Jim’s influence.
The D series is one of the most popular cue series around. What do you think makes it so popular?
The Color of Money was released in 1986, which sparked a renaissance in billiards that formed a whole new generation to take up the sport. The demand for cues
grew exponentially through the late 80s. That coupled with a good mix of classic, modern, simple, and ornate designs; makes the D-series cues some of the most fun to collect. There are many who really enjoy collecting them to reconnect to that period in their life. Some even seek to collect the complete set of all 26 different models.
A number of the D series cues were used in the movie “The Color of Money.” Do you remember what cues were used and who used them?
It’s been a while since I’ve watched it, but I know for sure the characters Amos and Grady Seasons both used McDermott Cue. I’m sure there are super-fans out there that may know if more were used.
McDermott is well known for their restoration work. Tell fans how this happens and some of the “horror stories” of cues McDermott got in that became amazing restoration stories.
As you can imagine, we’ve received cues in all types of conditions. Some of the most memorable were cues that went through hurricanes and tornados. Being able to restore those cues to their former glory is very satisfying as they often hold a lot of sentimental value with the owners.
What are your favorite cues or cue series?
How can I pick a favorite? That’s like asking who is your favorite child. I do enjoy and appreciate the level of craftsmanship that goes into our ‘Cue of the Year’ series. It really showcases our talents and capabilities.
If you could play any player, living or deceased, who would it be and what game?
I’d have to go with Willie Mosconi in straight pool, just so I could say he beat me 150-0.
Aside from being a production company, McDermott can do fully custom cues. How custom can people get and what is the process for it?
We offer a wide range of customization on our cues. Personalized name engraving, custom transfer art, Wildfire laser engraving, and custom inlay cues cover some of our capabilities. Visit www.mcdermottcue.com to see some of the available options, or email/call us if you have something unique in mind that you don’t see. We can work with you to create something really special.
What is something that you want people to know about McDermott Cue?
Factoring the quality, performance, industry-leading warranty, maintenance plan, and price. I feel that we provide exceptional value to our customers. Our equipment has been recognized as being extremely dependable for over five decades.
What are you most proud of at McDermott?
I’m most proud of the skilled workers we employ. Without them and their centuries of combined cuebuilding experience, we would not be one of the most successful brands in the industry.
Where do you see McDermott in the next 5 years?
In five years, I see McDermott as a constant leader in the billiard industry in terms of product innovation and impact. We aim to expand our market share globally in all cue sports while bringing cutting-edge technology
to all disciplines. It’s also important that we help foster a new generation of pool players to keep this great sport active and vibrant.
What can players and fans expect from McDermott for their 50th anniversary?
We are working on a special 50th Anniversary cues line that I feel will appeal to both old and new fans of McDermott. We’ll be releasing these cues in stages throughout the rest of 2025.
Billiard Education Foundation Presents the Monica Webb Battle of the Junior Champions
Top Junior Talent from USA, Canada, and Mexico to Compete at Borderline Billiards
Longmont, CO – April 21, 2025 The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF), in partnership with Borderline Billiards, is proud to announce the Monica Webb Battle of the Junior Champions, a premier international youth billiards tournament set to take place August 29-31, 2025, in Bristol, Tennessee. Sponsored by Brunswick, this prestigious event will feature the next generation of elite pool players in an exciting team format designed to showcase skill, teamwork, and international camaraderie.
The Battle of the Junior Champions will bring together four teams of standout junior players representing the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Each team will consist of five players—three boys and two girls—selected from the top rising talents in their respective countries.
In a nod to one of the sport’s most celebrated traditions, the tournament will follow a Mosconi Cup-style round-robin format, delivering fast-paced, high-stakes action as teams battle for national pride and the title of Junior Champions. Fans can expect a thrilling weekend of competition as these young athletes showcase their skills on one of the biggest stages available to junior players today.
“I’m looking forward to one of the most exciting events of the year, the Monica Webb Battle of the Junior Champions, which will go down as one of the best ever in the new
Borderline Brunswick Arena in Bristol, TN,” exclaimed Janet Atwell, owner of Borderline Billiards. “I love pool, but I love watching others play who love it just as much as me. Seeing the expression on the faces of these young champions is priceless. If you want your heart to smile, be a fan of a junior pool player. Don’t miss this event. The room will be full of exceptional talent and energy that will light you up! I’m so proud of the young talent, sportsmanship, and progress. The billiard industry loves growth, and thanks to these juniors, our pool world looks like we need to prepare for an explosion! I’m honored to host this event and can’t wait to be part of the piece of history. Thank you to the players, Shane Tyree, Myrriah Pierson, Eddie Altman, BEF, and Monica Webb.”
April 13, 2025 (Denver, CO): On Sunday, April 13th, 2025, Felt Billiards in Englewood, Colorado hosted another incredible juniors billiard clinic, welcoming roughly 30 young players and their families for a funfilled day of learning, challenges, and camaraderie.
Led by Felt’s house pro Samm Diep, this annual community event attracted participants aged 8 to 18, drawing participants from across the state and even as far as Casper, Wyoming.
Young players visited any of the six learning stations or four challenge shot tables, earning egg prizes filled with tickets. At the end, they traded their tickets for any of the amazing donated prizes, ranging from 5 to 250 tickets. The grand prize of a 52” Action cue and case was won by an estatic 14yo Giancarlos, who visited all ten tables several times asking for more challenges in an effort to win enough tickets for the prize.
This clinic would not have been possible without the support of an incredible team of volunteers. A huge thank-you to everyone who attended, managed stations, and helped spread the word:
Volunteers: PBIA certified instructors: Matt Wulfert, Ron Cox, Bobby Neues, Jeremiah Gage, Top players: Chris McDaniel, Chris Honeman, and Zach Bryan,
from the various junior league members: Ernie Castillo, D’von, Duke Marion, Chris Grounds, Connie Cofell, Bernie Jene, and Bob Hale.
Sponsors: PoolDawg.com, Kim Young (Dragon Billiards), Steve Sherman, Jim Lareau (Break Shot Billiards).
With another successful Kidz Klinik in the books, we can’t wait to see these young players continue to grow, compete, and fall in love with the sport. See you all at next year’s event!
Samm is a Master-certified instructor through the PBIA (Professional Billiard Instructors Association) and ACS (American Cue Sports). As the National Juniors Team USA coach and the 2024 PBIA Instructor of the Year, she brings two decades of experience working with players of all ages and skill levels. She offers both individual and group instruction, available in-person and remotely.
Felt Billiards is Colorado’s premier billiards destination, offering a top-tier playing experience for players of all skill levels. Located in Englewood, CO, Felt combines a welcoming atmosphere with professional-grade tables, exceptional service, and a vibrant community of players. Whether you’re heretocompete,learn,orsimplyenjoyanightout,Feltdelivers
(continues on page 46)
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One of the questions I often ask my students is what they feel is the weakest part of their pool game. I get a lot of different answers to that question, but sooner or later, the application of sidespin often comes out. Most players are aware of the need to use sidespin on some shots, but a clear understanding of what is involved. In my class outline, I purposely have sidespin near the end of my workshops. This is because sidespin introduces a lot of different factors to the shot.
A sidespin may be necessary to position the cue ball for the next shot. The application of sidespin is primarily to alter the natural rebound angle when the cue ball contacts a cushion. The problem with sidespin is that it
sidespin causes the cue ball to deviate from the standard aim line
causes the cue ball to deviate from the standard aim line which can lead to a missed shot.
Getting great cue ball position means nothing if you don’t make your shot. So let’s explore what happens when we hit
(Thanks to Dr. Dave Alciatore for the graphic image)
the cue ball either right or left of the vertical centerline. The first term to understand is squirt. Squirt occurs when the tip makes contact off the cue ball centerline. The cue ball not only begins to travel in the direction the tip is moving. A small amount of energy also pushes the cue ball along a line from the tip contact point along a straight line through the center of the cue ball. Right spin pushes the cue ball slightly to the left. Left spin pushes the ball to the right. The farther off-center you hit, the greater the amount of squirt.
The second thing to happen is known as ‘swerve’. Swerve causes the cue ball to curve back toward the original aim line. Swerve comes into play because there is almost always some elevation with the butt of the cue. Think of it like a very subtle masse’. A rolling cue ball will always try to straighten itself out as it moves across the table (gyroscopic procession). This results in the cue ball eventually following a track line nearly parallel to the original aim line.
The end result is the cue ball is now traveling to a point that is offset from the original aiming point, creating a thicker or thinner hit than planned. That offset is the amount of deflection created. The amount of deflection varies in part to your cue. Low-deflection shafts flex more and produce less squirt. A stiffer shaft will increase the effects of squirt. You will need to practice using sidespin with your own cue to determine how much deflection your cue will produce.
Hopefully, understanding what is actually happening will make it easier to adjust for deflection when you are using sidespin.
Until next time
Steve Jennings
ACS/SPF/PBIA Master Instructor
Playing pool since the age of 10, first learning on a table at home, and into pool rooms a few years later, I won several base championships while in the service. After my discharge, I continued to play recreationally, and in several regional tour events.
I started coaching and teaching game strategies in the 90s. I worked with several Master instructors reaching Master instructor status in 2015. Now Director of Training for the Southeastern Billiard Academy, and teaching classes as often as I can. I train/certify new instructors and look forward to help every player achieve their fullest potential.
Moritz Neuhausen claimed his first-ever Matchroom title emphatically, delivering a flawless 7-0 victory over former champion Francisco Sanchez Ruiz to be crowned the 2025 IFX Payments Premier League Pool winner.
Hosted for the first time at Hills Hotel in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Sarajevo Canton, the Premier League Pool showcased eight days of high-level competition, culminating in a dominant performance from the young German star.
Stage Three
Robbie Capito reclaimed the top spot in Stage Three with crucial victories over Neuhausen, Shaw, and Chua,
finishing level with Chua in match wins but edging ahead with a superior rack difference of 14. Chua and Ruiz followed closely behind, with the Spaniard securing third place with 19 match wins.
The battle for the final semi-final spot was fiercely contested between Jayson Shaw, Aloysius Yapp, and Neuhausen, with Yapp leading the race at the start of the day. However, a dramatic hill-hill showdown between Neuhausen and Yapp saw the German reignite his chances, securing a vital win. Neuhausen then faced Shaw in his final Stage Three match, delivering a crucial 5-2 victory to clinch the last spot in the semi-finals.
Kong star raced to a 5-3 lead, but a missed bank shot on the 6-ball proved costly, giving Neuhausen an opening. The German capitalized with a relentless charge,
leveling the match at 5-5 before producing a clinical rack run to reach the hill. With momentum on his side, Neuhausen closed out the match with another flawless clearance, securing his first-ever Premier League Pool final appearance.
Final
Ruiz won the lag and broke first, but an unfortunate scratch off the 3-ball handed Neuhausen an early advantage. The German wasted no time, sinking a golden break in the second rack to surge ahead 2-0. By the fourth rack, he had extended his lead to 4-0, though a positional error on the 4-ball momentarily gave Ruiz a chance to respond.
However, the Spaniard’s stay at the table was brief, as he
failed to pot the 7-ball, allowing Neuhausen to stretch his lead to 5-0. A tense safety battle followed in the sixth rack, but Neuhausen remained composed, methodically clearing the table to reach the hill.
With victory in sight, Neuhausen executed a brilliant safety on the 2-ball, forcing Ruiz into a difficult response. When the Spaniard failed to make a pot, the German seized the opportunity, completing a flawless clearance to seal a stunning 7-0 triumph.
Across the past eight days, Neuhausen racked up an impressive 127 match wins. In his showdown against a former champion, he not only claimed the Premier League Pool title but also etched his name into Matchroom history with his first-ever major title.
LEARNING AND PRACTICING POOL
Pool players are athletes with less physical demands but more mental skill requirements than athletes in other sports. Once fundamental pool skills are mastered, pool primarily becomes a mental venture.
So, the work on your billiard mental skills is just as important as your time working on shotmaking and position play. And yet, most pool players do not spend much time addressing the mental aspects of playing pool. The mental side of pool is often overlooked.
It is more fun to play pool or practice running balls than to work on mental skills. But, fifteen to thirty minutes per week of mental training can significantly improve your pool playing abilities. This is because the words and images you put in your brain create your physical motions.
Learn By Feel
Early pool players in the United States had almost no one to teach them pool techniques and they learned by HAMB (hit a million balls). Today, players have several ways to learn the game of pool including professional instructors, clinics, pool books, articles, and instructional videos. Any or all of these are highly recommended.
However, hitting many balls (maybe not a million) can have a significant learning effect if one thing is
added to the learning process: feel. Feel means having a keen awareness of how your actions feel as you are performing them.
Pool players must become deeply connected to their pool strokes during practice and competition. This is accomplished by kinesthetic awareness which is a focus on your body position, balance, sensations, muscle tension, and movements as you stroke the cue ball. Some examples of feeling what you are doing:
• Cue Sensation: Feeling the weight and balance of your cue stick, ensuring a smooth and controlled stroke.
• Body Position: Feeling the solidness of your stance and bridge.
• Stroke Rhythm: Sensing the rhythm of your backand-forth stroke movement, ensuring a fluid and consistent motion.
• Table Surface: Awareness of the texture of the tablecloth and how the balls roll on it.
• Force Control: Feeling the amount of force you apply to the cue ball, adjusting power for different shots.
• Three Sounds to Hear: Cue tip hitting cue ball, cue ball hitting object ball, object ball hitting pocket, and the varying intervals between.
• Spin and Cut Shots: Sensing any cue ball spin you impart and the feeling of different cut shots (full to thin).
By becoming aware and honing these sensations, you can elevate your game and develop a more intuitive connection with the table and your shotmaking.
Feel is a skill and the more awareness you can bring to bear on your pool strokes, the more feedback you will get from the experience, and you will learn the pool strokes that work best for you. Here is an example: Pool instructors all say, “Keep a loose grip and wrist when you hit a draw shot.” What is a loose grip and wrist and when are they too loose or tight? Use the “keep a loose grip and wrist” instruction as a guide to your discovery of the ideal degree of looseness in your grip and wrist.
In other words, the way to find the right degree of grip and wrist pressure is by experimenting with it in action and discovering what feels comfortable and works well. Finding out what works well will help you improve your pool game and foster a deeper connection with your actions. By continuously refining your feel and experimenting with different techniques, you will develop a more intuitive and effective pool game.
Post Match Learning
Post-match learning is essential for improving your pool game. After playing a match, reflect on your performance. Objectively analyze the match and try to identify areas where your focus was strong and where it faded. Think about your shot selection, cue ball positioning, and decision-making during the more critical moments of the match. Did you miss any easy shots? Scratch unexpectedly? How effective was your cue ball speed control and positioning? Understand why any errors on your part occurred and how to avoid them in future matches. Use mistakes as learning opportunities and avoid making excuses for them.
Based on your match analysis, set a few specific goals for improvement. Focus on areas like concentration, shot consistency, or strategic play. Imagine successful shots and positive outcomes for your next match. Consistent post-match learning and practice will lead to your growth as a pool player.
Like other sports, pool requires a whole lot of repetitions
Practice
Many people enjoy playing a game of pool but do not have a pool table to practice on, the time, or the inclination to practice. Each of you must consider how much pool means to you and how much time to devote to competing and practicing. Competing and not practicing will result only in minimal improvement over time. No one can improve their pool game significantly without meaningful practice. Even with meaningful practice, improvement can take time because you have to absorb and adjust to a massive number of table layouts and various kinds of pool shots. Like other sports, pool requires a whole lot of repetitions (reps).
You play the way you practice. In other words, your practice is a rehearsal for a competitive performance. View practice as an investment in improvement so you can produce a quality competitive performance. You can make your practice meaningful and realize optimal benefits from it by devoting your practice sessions to some key points (in priority order):
1. Continually improve your pre-shot routine and fundamentals including your stance, grip, bridges, and stroke. Make sure you follow your pre-shot routine on every shot you take during a practice session.
2. Shots you miss and your weak points. Pay attention to the shots you often miss in competition and start practicing shots that mimic them. Weak points that are often overlooked are long shots, shooting with a rail bridge, and shooting over a ball with a freestanding bridge. Improving your break shot can also pay big dividends.
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number of bumpers on a table competitive kick shot used to determine break order where you can find interviews by Mark White what Vince told Mozelle was in his case making the cue ball move backwards after contact when the tip makes contact off the cue ball centerline what Vince smelled in the pool hall hitting an object ball into a rail before pocketing number of diamonds on a billiard table (15 Across) - (1 Across) = hitting the cue ball into a rail before contact
black circle used to align the rack position deflecting off an object ball for another objective
legendary cue maker celebrating 50th anniversary shot hit downward with sidespin to make the cue avoid obstacles common name for a broken rule what Eddie and Carmen smelled in the pool hall causes the cue ball to curve back toward the original aim line the first shot of a game
Growing the Game
in Colorado: Highlights from the Third Annual Kidz Klinik
April 13, 2025 (Denver, CO): On Sunday, April 13th, 2025, Felt Billiards in Englewood, Colorado hosted another incredible juniors billiard clinic, welcoming roughly 30 young players and their families for a funfilled day of learning, challenges, and camaraderie.
Led by Felt’s house pro Samm Diep, this annual community event attracted participants aged 8 to 18, drawing participants from across the state and even as far as Casper, Wyoming.
Young players visited any of the six learning stations or four challenge shot tables, earning egg prizes filled with tickets. At the end, they traded their tickets for any of the amazing donated prizes, ranging from 5 to 250 tickets. The grand prize of a 52” Action cue and case was won by an estatic 14yo Giancarlos, who visited all ten tables several times asking for more challenges in an effort to win enough tickets for the prize.
This clinic would not have been possible without the support of an incredible team of volunteers. A huge thank-you to everyone who attended, managed stations, and helped spread the word:
Volunteers: PBIA certified instructors: Matt Wulfert, Ron Cox, Bobby Neues, Jeremiah Gage, Top players: Chris McDaniel, Chris Honeman, and Zach Bryan,
from the various junior league members: Ernie Castillo, D’von, Duke Marion, Chris Grounds, Connie Cofell, Bernie Jene, and Bob Hale.
Sponsors: PoolDawg.com, Kim Young (Dragon Billiards), Steve Sherman, Jim Lareau (Break Shot Billiards).
With another successful Kidz Klinik in the books, we can’t wait to see these young players continue to grow, compete, and fall in love with the sport. See you all at next year’s event!
Samm is a Master-certified instructor through the PBIA (Professional Billiard Instructors Association) and ACS (American Cue Sports). As the National Juniors Team USA coach and the 2024 PBIA Instructor of the Year, she brings two decades of experience working with players of all ages and skill levels. She offers both individual and group instruction, available in-person and remotely.
Felt Billiards is Colorado’s premier billiards destination, offering atop-tierplayingexperienceforplayersofallskilllevels.Located inEnglewood,CO,Feltcombinesawelcomingatmospherewith professional-grade tables, exceptional service, and a vibrant community of players. Whether you’re here to compete, learn, or simply enjoy a night out, Felt deliversa best-in-class billiards and bar experience with great drinks, delicious food, and an unmatched passion for the game.
“Just like so!” I arrived Friday shortly after 6 pm. Greg met me and he escorted me to “Mama Spanks” house. He showed me to my room where
I stayed for the weekend. The home was very well decorated and had a pleasant smell of scented candles. Greg showed me around the place. There were snacks, coffee, and water available. Greg mentioned several times, This is all for you! Greg then showed me the den. The Den is a large converted garage with a very wellmaintained 9ft Diamond Table. I got my cue out and started shooting a few. After about an hour we headed to Steve’s 727 club. When we arrived Greg asked if I was hungry and went to get us some street tacos. Let me just say those street tacos were fantastic! I’m a fat kid at heart so I love food and those tacos were excellent!
Unfortunately, there were not enough people to have a tournament that evening so I shot a few racks with a local
patron. Greg immediately noticed several issues with my stance, head position, and cue grip. We stayed for a couple of hours and then headed back for a good night’s rest. The room I was given was very nicely decorated and had a mini fridge loaded with water and a variety of snacks and sweets. The bed was very comfortable and I slept very well.
I woke very refreshed and ready to get to work. Mama Spanks made a very nice breakfast. There was seriously enough food for 3 people! Mama Spanks don’t play when it comes to feeding her guests! While enjoying an excellent breakfast, Mama Spanks and I had a nice conversation. It was now time to get to work.
It was a pretty chilly day in Tulsa but the Den was nice and cozy! We immediately got started on the tape drill. Greg is an extremely attentive teacher. Making multiple adjustments till everything was aligned and I was hitting the ball like I was supposed to. Greg is very patient and offers needed encouragement and suggestions throughout the session. I had to stop and take several breaks due to back issues and Greg was always accommodating.
We stopped around 1 for lunch and Greg made us some homemade pizza. Greg even makes his own dough. On a scale of 1-10, the pizzas were an 11! I wanted a nap after the pizza, but it was back to work.
We continued the different stroke drills. Even when I struggled a few times, Greg was patient and encouraging. By the end of the day, this old guy was hurting! It’s not often that many people shoot over 350 shots in a day.
From the adjustments to my stance and head position, my body wasn’t used to that. We finished up around 6 pm and after a long hot shower, I was ready to go to Steve’s 727 Club for a tournament. Athe tournament. We got to the club and Greg went to get food. Greg asked what I wanted and I said I could go for some more of those tacos and just like so, we had tacos again.
When the tournament started I started against a very polite young man and ended up getting the win who do I have to play in the second round? Greg! Ugh, I figured I would just be watching him shoot but with what I had learned, I was able to go hill-hill with Greg Hogue! Not too bad for a 361 Fargo!!
We left and went back to Mama Spanks and I fell in the bed and was out. The next morning Mama Spanks had another fantastic breakfast ready! After breakfast, we headed back to the Den. We worked on a couple of things
but I had to cut the session short due to back issues.
Greg was very understanding and said we could make up the additional time whenever I was back in Tulsa. Overall the experience was well worth it and I believe Greg isn’t charging enough!
Greg is extremely attentive, very concise in his methods, and always encouraging. Since I have been back home I have been working on the drills and maintaining the same discipline and pre-shot routine. I have gone out and shot a few racks with my wife and some teammates and everyone has made statements on how consistent I am on every shot. I can’t recommend the Red Door Den training center enough! The overall improvement I have seen in just a week is amazing!
With that being said there is no magic wand! You have to stick with the drills and practice every day to maintain what you learned. It is easy to fall back into old habits if you don’t stick with the grind.
Thank you Greg Hogue!
LESSON#442 - LONEGUNMAN
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Massé with Body Reference Points
Because I used several books over the years, some lessons may have the same number but be a different lesson.
The length of the table massé shots can be made easier by using elevation relative to different body parts to give you proper degrees to increase or decrease how much curve you need.
I hope I said that properly.
• Max english left about chest height for 1 diamond curve.
• Shoulder height for 2 diamonds, max left.
• Chin high for 3 diamonds. Max left.
Experiment using different heights and speeds because of personal height.
Diagram is for measurement. Not a real situation as other options would be possible.
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3. Position play and speed control. Practice is the time to try two or three different ways to get position from one shot to the next.
4. New techniques and shots you can add to your repertoire such as defensive play, a curve or jump shot, multi-rail kick shot, etc.
Conclusion
A key aspect of improving your pool game is learning by feel. This involves developing a keen awareness of your actions and sensations while playing, such as the weight and balance of your cue stick, the solidness of your stance, and the rhythm of your stroke.
Post-match learning is another crucial element for improvement. After each match, take the time to reflect on your performance and analyze areas where you excelled and where you need improvement. Consider your shot selection, cue ball positioning, and decision-making during critical moments. Use any mistakes as learning opportunities and set specific goals for future matches. Consistent practice is essential for steady improvement. Meaningful practice involves focusing on your pre-shot routine, addressing weak points, and experimenting with position play and new techniques.
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Ultimately, the journey to becoming a skilled pool player is a continuous process of learning, practicing, and refining both your physical and mental skills. Embrace this journey with dedication and passion, and you will see significant progress in your pool playing abilities. PRESS RELEASE: MONICA WEBB
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About Billiard Congress of America
Founded in 1948, the Billiard Congress of America is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to growing a united, prosperous and highly regarded billiard industry through BCA leadership. The BCA seeks to enhance the success of its members and promote the game of billiards though educational, marketing and promotional efforts, annual industry trade shows, tournaments and other programs designed to encourage billiards as a lifestyle and make pool everybody’s game. For more information, visit bca-pool.com or call 303.243.5070.
