2 questions about pool halls

smahalko said:
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I had the pleasure of a few friends ( who were WAY better than me ) that basically
took me under their wings and showed me how to shoot and get better. One of whom
got me into shooting straight pool. Now there's a game that will help you improve too!!
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You had me at straight pool. :grin-loving::smiling-heart:
 
DD, as I said, I play league and enjoy it very much. I think it would be a good thing for a beginner to try. But I just don't believe it is "by far the best" - or even most efficient way, to improve.

Most of the weaker players I see in league haven't improved in years. They may play in more than one league or night but typically it's the only pool they play. The ones that have improved - along with the stronger players - have all done it through practice, matching up (even if not for the cash) etc.

League can enhance your improvement because it is competitive, but it's just not the centerpiece of the program to me is all.
 
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Don't sweat the small stuff. Just remember every single person in the hall, no matter how good they are, started off just like you....a beginner....every single one of them. As far as playing for fun, most folks are not gambling but are actually playing for fun. Sure there are some that will want to gamble, but the majority are there to pocket some balls and enjoy themselves.

As others have said, joining a league is a great way to meet folks and actually a great way to improve your game. I've played in league for over 15 years and skill levels vary from very good, to can't hardly make a ball. The object is to have fun and win a few games if possible. Hell the hall I play league out of actually has 3 leagues. One of them is actually for folks wanting to learn how to play so for the most part, they are almost all beginners. Don't sweat it, go have fun.
 
Scott Lee said:
I find it to be just the opposite. MOST people, when asked by a stranger if they "want to play some", will decline because they don't want to gamble. It's not hard to tell, imo. I always say, "would you care to split time? I'm just looking for someone to play with." Frequently the answer is "Sure!"

pmata...Don't be intimidated because you don't feel like you play well enough. Get out there and just play your best. You win some and you lose some! In the end, it's only a game. :D

Scott Lee
www.poolknowledge.com
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Lot of good responses on top of this one.

Most players don't average 3 balls so sounds like you're above average already.

A little advise: Habits are hard to break. Don't make trying to impress others about your game a habit. Like Scott says "Its only a game" Thinking what others might be thinking will ruin your game.
 
I think a new player who improves as the season goes on would be a huge asset to a league team. The key is improvement. And it should be relatively easy to improve if you are just starting out and want to improve.
 
Thanks once more for all the great responses! I feel very encouraged now. There's only 2 PH's in my area that I know about. I had called in the past asking about tournaments but none of them hosted tourneys. They do have league though and I plan to go check that out ASAP. Wish me luck! :D

Sent from my BlackBerry 9780 using Tapatalk
 
pmata814 said:
2. How good do you have to be to enter a pool hall without people laughing at you :) ?
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Both questions have been answered already, but, if you do find yourself a bit nervous while you're out, just keep your mind between the cushions. Pool halls can be intimidating, especially if you end up playing near someone who is also trying to prove themselves. Don't let it affect your game.

Unfamiliar equipment can also throw you off at first if you're used to only playing on your own table. Take your time, play some basic straight in and cut shots if you find yourself missing things you never do at home. It will settle you in and bring your focus back.
 
The room owners opinion is..... We are always trying to match up people alone with someone to play. (they stay longer ).
We know who to put you with so ask the house man.

ULTIMATE-BILL
 
efirkey said:
As one of the top players in my pool room I will gladly play you for fun if I think you are seriously trying to improve your game. If I notice you practicing by yourself and playing others to improve your game I have no problem playing with you and giving you some pointers. But if you have been drinking and never practice alone, I will decline, but I will decline to play nicely, so ask anyways.

I may be a high level player at pool, but there are times when I am the beginner at something and the tables are reversed.

Doesn't hurt to ask.

You can always befriend a regular at the pool hall and find out who likes to play for fun. Not everyone wants to gamble.
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This is a great post with lots of great advice!
 
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