Computers Are Bad For Pool

[Johnnyt]

While computers, cells, and streaming with chats have been good for the hardcore pool player that knows what goes on, and has gone on in pool for decades, it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool. A lot of them don’t watch pool or even try out playing it for a sport or hobby because they think of it like most think of wrestling where the outcome is set before hand. I don’t think computers and such have hurt the leagues anywhere close to what they have to pro pool. Johnnyt

 

[CocoboloCowboy]

Willie Mosconi in his Autobiography, Willie's Game mentions Pool has been declining in popularity since the year of his birth 1913. If you can find a copy of Wilie's Book read it, very eye opening.

 

[YubaCushion]

While computers, cells, and streaming with chats have been good for the hardcore pool player that knows what goes on, and has gone on in pool for decades, it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool. A lot of them don’t watch pool or even try out playing it for a sport or hobby because they think of it like most think of wrestling where the outcome is set before hand. I don’t think computers and such have hurt the leagues anywhere close to what they have to pro pool. Johnnyt

The mainstream public doesn't watch as many broadcasts on their computers as they do regular TV. Pool isn't on TV anymore. I always remember finding a game on ESPN 2 or 3. I don't think people believe it's fake, people are just more cynical in general.

 

[Dead Money]

I really don't think the "mainstreet public" reads sites where "inside information" is posted and they don't give a damn about pool beyond drinking some beers and slamming the balls around once in a while with their friends..if at all. They certainly don't care about pro pool which is why there is almost no TV coverage at all!

 

[nobcitypool]

I don't think people who are thinking about beginning to play pool come sign up at AZ Billiards prior to doing so. It's really simple why pool is declining.

1. Numerous other forms of entertainment ranging from online poker to video games.

2. Pool halls closing everywhere, there are less places readily available to play.

3. The economy. Less people who have $2K to $6K to drop on a pool table to install in their home.

4. Lack of TV exposure.

Pool cannot escape the fact that it requires 181 Square Feet of space to install a table costing several thousand dollars. Similar reason that Hockey will only ever have limited popularity among youth in the USA. It takes at least $300 to $500 to gear up and ice time is $200 plus per hour. Put pool tables in schools, colleges and every home, then see how popular pool becomes.

 

[cleary]

While computers, cells, and streaming with chats have been good for the hardcore pool player that knows what goes on, and has gone on in pool for decades, it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool. A lot of them don’t watch pool or even try out playing it for a sport or hobby because they think of it like most think of wrestling where the outcome is set before hand. I don’t think computers and such have hurt the leagues anywhere close to what they have to pro pool. Johnnyt

Johnnyt, you're on drugs. Strong, strong drugs.

 

[APA BRIAN]

I'm never sure where these threads are going. Pool IS popular! But what do you expect? Its a finesse game. Its not ever going to be football or poker. Millions of people play it worldwide... I think we should be happy for that and realize pool popularity has a CEILING.
We play a NICHE sport/game. To me pool is exactly where you would expect it to be. I know in the back the mind we want a 2003 for Poker.....for pool. That will never, ever, ever happen.

 

[michael4]

While computers, cells, and streaming with chats have been good for the hardcore pool player that knows what goes on, it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool.
A lot of them don’t watch pool or even try out playing it for a sport or hobby because they think of it like most think of wrestling where the outcome is set before hand.

I dont follow the logic here,

1. The mainstream public doesnt watch pool on TV -OR- follow it on their computer.

2. Pool has its issues, we all know that, but being "fixed" is not a complaint that I have heard personally.

 

[onepocketron]

I don't think the main stream public really would consider coming to AZ (or any other pool site), nor do they really care what pool players do. I think the main stream folk are wrapped up in sports that are on the boob tube. Movies about hustling would fit that bill more in my mind.

Me, I'm just the opposite. I could really care less about most sports, though I do watch a little football every now and then (mabye the super bowl or playoffs). I'm addicted to any table sport that you knock balls around on a flat table, with a wooden stick.

 

[Johnnyt]

OK, I might be wrong just this one time this year. Johnnyt

 

[dorabelle]

I strongly disagree. Because of computers anyone can find any info they need to improve and watch pool multiple times a weeks. It a great tool for the game.

 

[Maxx]

While computers, cells, and streaming with chats have been good for the hardcore pool player that knows what goes on, and has gone on in pool for decades, it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool. A lot of them don’t watch pool or even try out playing it for a sport or hobby because they think of it like most think of wrestling where the outcome is set before hand. I don’t think computers and such have hurt the leagues anywhere close to what they have to pro pool. Johnnyt

I'm pretty sure it's a legion of old guys hustling unsuspecting repair guys that turned the tide on the mainstream public 's opinion on pool.

They go in expecting to fix the garage door opener and make a meager wage, but end up getting hustled on the bar-box and leave broke and broken, never to pick up a cue again.

It leaves a bad taste in their mouth and they quit apa and join a dart league.

 

[perspicaz]

Computers are wonderful tools used by horrible people.

 

[BeiberLvr]

The IPT was the best/worst thing to happen to pool.

If somebody with deep pockets that actually knew a thing or two about the pool business started a professional 8 ball tour, I do think it would be successful.

 

[teedotaj]

JohnnyT you always have some crazy ideas for pool. This one takes the cake. lol

 

[IntoTheRail]

While computers, cells, and streaming with chats have been good for the hardcore pool player that knows what goes on, and has gone on in pool for decades, it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool. A lot of them don’t watch pool or even try out playing it for a sport or hobby because they think of it like most think of wrestling where the outcome is set before hand. I don’t think computers and such have hurt the leagues anywhere close to what they have to pro pool. Johnnyt

This has got to be one of the dumbest things I have ever read on this site...and that is saying something.

 

[Wybrook]

Propagating ignorance?? Works for all those who take advantage of it.

The free flow of info can only be helpful, unless its not the info you want. Perhaps the solution is to "create" better info and fix any outstanding issues.

 

[West Point 1987]

This has got to be one of the dumbest things I have ever read on this site...and that is saying something.

The OP has a point...although I don't agree the Great American Public would think the "fix" is in like pro wrestling. Pool has and has always had a bad image. Ever heard the term "miss-spent youth"? We constantly debate what's "wrong" with pool and how to "fix" it...then in the next thread we chirp about action (gambling), pool hall fights/killings, rip-offs, cons, drugs, jarrings, etc. To the casual lurker, it would appear that the pool world is a pretty scummy place. We probably should do a little better at promoting the positive side of competition and skill on social media and a little less reminiscing about the underbelly of it all. How many of you reading this talk about pool with your co-workers or bosses? I used to bring my gear to work with me if I had a tournament or league night...the looks/comments I got drove me back underground at the time. The only guys I talk pool with are fellow players I only see in the pool rooms...I'm too old to care anymore, but I still notice the eye-roles when I mention it in mixed company.

 

[bdorman]

it is not good for the mainstream public find to out some of the dirty stuff that goes on in pool. IMO this is one of the biggest reasons so many don’t watch pool. Johnnyt

Can't agree with this one. All sports have had their scandals, then and now. It doesn't seem to affect the fan participation at all. Doping in baseball and cycling...so what? The World Series will still get millions of viewers.

More scandals are publicized today because of increase communication (internet, loss of privacy, video smartphones, etc). But it doesn't seem to affect the fans beyond voicing an opinion about who's right in a he said/she said.

 

[Blue Hog ridr]

Computers are great for pool Mr. Johnny. I can bring up 2 browsers and watch porn in between stream games.

So there! Every cloud has a silver g string.