About Poolpro Expertise I can answer questions in all fields related to the game of pool including : Rules, technique, strategy, cues and equipment, history, league and tournament play,gambling, playing ettiquette, and cue collecting. I love all aspects of the cue games including 8 ball, 9 ball, 14.1 continuous, one pocket, and 3 ball. I am also knowledgeable in three cushion billiards
Experience I have been an avid player of all pool games for over 15 years. I have worked at, and managed over five different pool rooms in two different states. I have seen and played some of the best players in the world. I have given formal lessons to many students.
Organizations I have been a member of the APA, BCA, and Florida 8 ball leagues. I have qualified, and played in regional and national events for these organizations. I currently play in the TAP league.
Awards and Honors Many top finishes in league and tournament play. Also MVP of the session award.
Question i got a simple question, how would someone start off thier proffesional career? meaning how would someone start off to get to proffesional status?
Answer Hello and thanks for your question. If you are just starting out and thinking about playing professionally you have a ways to go. My advice would be just to play as often as you can, you have to really make it a priority to learn this game. If you can afford it find a qualified teacher or coach, the right one is worth every penny. Especially now, learn the right way from the beginning, and you won't have to correct bad habits and relearn your game. Find the best players you can and see what you can learn from them. Just watching good players will show you a lot. Learn from any source you can, get instructional books and videos. There is a wealth of knowledge available. You have to LEARN this game and all the different aspects of it. Obviously you have to put in the time on the table, there is no way out of that, but having the proper knowlege of what you are doing or trying to do will take years off the process. You must be careful to actually practice in a structured and disciplined way, and not just randomly pocket balls. Look at every game as a learning opportunity, and analyze why you won or loss each match.
Now, if you are already an acomplished player, and trying to make the leap to pro status, I would still reccomend a good coach or instructor. They can see you in a way that you cannot see yourself, and correct any bad habits that may have crept back into your playing and are holding you back. They can also give you ways to reach the next level in your game. Assuming you are ready, you need to get out there and PLAY. Play every tournament you can. If you can't place in your local tournaments, don't waste your time or money playing the bigger tournaments. Keep going untill you are winning your local tournaments easily. Then just keep on going. There are open and pro am tours in different parts of the counrty, join these. If you can find a pro player in your area, set up a match or a lesson, and get there opinion on what they think your chances are. Playing a pro will let you know where you stand. There are many tournaments that offer a paid entry to a professional event as part of the prize. All you got to do is win one, and keep winning on the tour, and now you are a pro! Much easier said than done. Problem is, untill you are actually placing or winning these tournaments, it gets very expensive to play them. Between entrance fees, travel expenses and time not available to work, it is pretty tough if you aren't making any return on your money. Of course once you prove you can win, you can get sponsors to help with these costs.
Anyway, hope this gives you some idea of the process.
GOOD LUCK! Jason
