Shawn - First off, kudos for taking this step to solicit any, and all, input on your game and how you're perceived by others. Most of us would never take a similar step. It's really encouraging to see someone who actually
wants to improve their image and be an ambassador for the game of pool. Thanks for doing this! The game certainly needs more players who sincerely care about the game and can permanently set their ego and macho self-image on the rail.
I've had the opportunity to watch you play recently... at the Reno Open... and based on your play of Saturday, you were my choice for the top money. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be. The confidence you played with on Saturday was gone come Sunday morning. There was a noticeable change in your demeanor… even before the matches on Sunday began. It was fairly obvious to me as I was watching you closely... at the table and in your chair. I'd be interested in knowing if you knew that as well… and if so, to what you attributed it to. Understanding what happened would likely be instrumental to your progress.
Regarding your image while at the table… first impression… you come across as professional, well-mannered, straight-forward (no BS or games being played at the table, such as with the rack), you're focused with the task at hand and generally absorbed in the game. Really, no negative attributes while at the table. Could there be some more positives?, sure… as have been suggested by Williebetmore but those are tough to adopt while at the table… as they tend to be "out of character" for most of us… and would require a major effort on your part to change.
Away from the table, my advice would be to engage the spectators more. Don't be afraid to initiate the interaction… to ask them where they play, how much… and if there's a question or two they might want to ask a pro if they had the opportunity. Pool tends to be clique-ish… and whatever you can do to break down some of those borders would be beneficial to the game. Strive to make the fans of the game feel close to you.
Again, thanks for asking Shawn… and good luck. You're on your way to the top and steps like these will help your journey.
