And don't get me wrong, I don't have an issue with people wanting to gamble. I simply get tired of being down upon because I don't.
People can enjoy themselves without gambling, even playing pool.
Everyone can play pool without ever gambling, in fact the large majority don't gamble at all and among those who "Claim" to gamble, many will only play if they think it is a lock.
I was just pointing out an historical fact. Years ago the pool rooms had local champs and they gambled. That is how they gained their status and were known.
Not necessarily large amounts but they did demonstrate they had a confidence in their game that they would back up with a bet. It was often refereed as "Gun fighting".
You say "People can enjoy themselves without gambling, even playing pool."
Of course they can but not "Pool players". When two players want to play how can they play without a bet? What is the point, it would be meaningless. These legendary players are often discussed on here. Freddy the Beard didn't write a book
"The Encyclopedia of the best fun players I ever saw".
Not to mention, who wants to give another player a shot at you for nothing? If they want to take some of what you have as a player that you have worked for, they are going to have to take a risk.
Even the most humble player has an ego and if you want to walk around bragging how you beat them your going to have to risk something.
If you are not a pool player you and your buddies can play for fun all you want. Players though don't want to play for fun when they match up.
