ask joshua filler..

You’ll really understand the importance of staying on the correct side of the OB. Will increase your level of play in all games!

From the greater Cleveland area. Have been in and out of the game for 30 some years, going back to middle school. Currently play BCAPL 8 and 10 ball and some 9 ball on 9 footers when I can make it to that weekly tournament. Frequent another room with 9 footers just to practice alone for the most part. I've enjoyed following this online community for about the last four years.

Started the activation of this account a couple years ago or so, and just realized that I finally have permission to post. I don't know when the restriction was lifted, so I'm not sure how "new" I am. I'm trying to play by the introduction expectations before making any posts or replies.

Start playing a lot of straight pool AND one pocket. These games will require you to LEARN the cue ball. The more knowledgeable you become about controlling the cue ball, EVERY POOL SKILL will improve. Shot making, position play, banks, and every game.

@Frosty
speaking for myself
most chalks if you apply them correctly and frequently enough do fine and there is no "better" (unless maybe less skids from the cleaner chalks)
but if you have a table at home the cleanliness can be seen as an advantage
as for green streaks on the blue cloth it wipes off easily with your glove
last
what do you mean i cant buy results with the newest bestest chalk/tip/break cue etc...you telling me i have to practice ????
c'mon man!!!!!

jmho
icbw

Great to see that the classic disciplines simply refuse to die. There's no money to be made, international tournaments are scarce, but the game simply has a reason to exist because it's basic, brilliant and beautiful. I have no idea about your current average in the free game, so forgive me if I'm telling you things you already know. When learning how to play the free game, it's important to know that there are three types of shots in that game, I call it the 1,2,100 principle. 1. A shot is so difficult, you'd be happy to make it, period. Don't make it harder than it already is. 2. A shot is makeable and there is potential for position. You try to play it in such a way that you will at least have this point, and the next one. 100. You have the balls nicely gathered, maybe even in the Americain position. You are thinking "production". Whether that's a run of 12 or a run of 199, that's depending on how far advanced you are. If you are a beginner, always decide if you're playing a 1 or a 2!

I also believe in the power of playing 14.1 for practice , as it teaches you how to see combination shots and how to break out problem balls as well as working on cue ball speed and control .
I feel its got way more positives than negatives to help improve your game .