I remember back in 2002, I think it was my first U.S. Open. Two pool stars were playing on the TV table, and the place was literally packed. I managed to squeeze on up in the bleachers right in front of the TV table on the end of an aisle. What a great view!
Along comes Billy Incardona. I was introduced to him through Keith. He sat down next to me at the end of the aisle. As the match was in progress, I asked Billy a question about the rules. Yes, I wsa a little green back then when it came to professional pool.
Billy proceeded to explain the rules and commentate on what was happening while the match was in progress. It was so cool. It was like I had my own private commentator sitting next to me, and I could ask questions whenever I wanted and get an answer to my queries. Wow!
As time went on, Keith and I attended more and more events on the professional tournament trail, and I got to know Billy better. What a gentleman! At Keith's One-Pocket Hall of Fame dinner speech, he stated that Billy was the best 9-ball player in the country when Keith was growing up. Coming from Keith, that is a very strong accolade.
I know many of pool's fourth estate, and we are all members of the Tribal Nation of Pool. I respect that, but I am disappointed, I guess, that there are not more Americans inducted into the Billiard Congress of AMERICA's Hall of Fame, number one. Number two, it seems like American thoroughbred pool legends like Billy, Grady, Kim Davenport, Shannon Daulton, Mary Kenniston, and a few others who have devoted their life to pool, played in tournament as well as contributed in many other ways in the autumn of their life are overlooked for our foreign brethren of pool players, some younger than my daughter, and industry members' darlings, those who wine and dine the industry members at pool events.
The people's choice doesn't matter, it seems. I am reminded of Alex Higgins, considered a "bad boy" in snooker, yet when he passed away, the entire world mourned. What a shame people are given tribute for their contributions to their chosen live's path after they are deceased. :sorry: