My take, on the CSI stop in Muncie. After the initial introductions, Earl started off the show, doing a few trick shots. He then does a few of his stroke shots, {which I have to say, he should do more of} that are pretty incredible. The table he was on, I practice on pretty regular. The pockets are not cut right, and tend to be a little difficult at times, spitting out balls that should go. Earl was hammering some of the stroke shots in, and it was amazing. I've been watching Earl play, since back in the mid 80's, and he's still a shot making machine.
John Schmidt was in the bar when I arrived, and we chatted a bit. He had pulled something in his neck earlier in the day, and was having trouble even bending over to shoot a shot. One of the guys from our league is a Chiropractor, and gave him an adjustment, allowing him to do his part of the show. John showed the crowd a few things about position play, and how to stay on the proper side of a shot. Then did a challenge match with one of the locals.
They did some scotch doubles matches next, with each local getting a Pro player for a partner. I can tell you for a fact, that the local people, were extremely excited to get a chance to play pool with these 2 Champions. They must have played about 6 or 7 games of Scotch doubles.
They both stuck around for about an hour afterwards, chatting and signing autographs. I have been around a lot of pro players thru the years, and seen how the different ones related to the public. These 2 gentlemen, did a great job, of getting the crowd involved. I would be willing to bet, if the show was gonna happen again tomorrow, most would pay the cover to come watch again, and have the chance to talk with them.
From what I know of this tour, it's still new, and evolving. As with any show, there will be changes made along the way, to make it better. But in my opinion, this exhibition is well worth the money we paid to get in. Some people play pool for years, never getting to see a Pro player in person, {thinking the local guy who runs 1 rack of 8 ball is Pro caliber} and here we have 2 U.S. Open Champions shooting balls and chatting with the crowd. I honestly think this will be good for pool, and helpful for the Pro players too. Keep up the good work fella's.
I know some people will criticize, and complain. You're entitled to your opinion. But this is mine. Have a great day.
John Schmidt was in the bar when I arrived, and we chatted a bit. He had pulled something in his neck earlier in the day, and was having trouble even bending over to shoot a shot. One of the guys from our league is a Chiropractor, and gave him an adjustment, allowing him to do his part of the show. John showed the crowd a few things about position play, and how to stay on the proper side of a shot. Then did a challenge match with one of the locals.
They did some scotch doubles matches next, with each local getting a Pro player for a partner. I can tell you for a fact, that the local people, were extremely excited to get a chance to play pool with these 2 Champions. They must have played about 6 or 7 games of Scotch doubles.
They both stuck around for about an hour afterwards, chatting and signing autographs. I have been around a lot of pro players thru the years, and seen how the different ones related to the public. These 2 gentlemen, did a great job, of getting the crowd involved. I would be willing to bet, if the show was gonna happen again tomorrow, most would pay the cover to come watch again, and have the chance to talk with them.
From what I know of this tour, it's still new, and evolving. As with any show, there will be changes made along the way, to make it better. But in my opinion, this exhibition is well worth the money we paid to get in. Some people play pool for years, never getting to see a Pro player in person, {thinking the local guy who runs 1 rack of 8 ball is Pro caliber} and here we have 2 U.S. Open Champions shooting balls and chatting with the crowd. I honestly think this will be good for pool, and helpful for the Pro players too. Keep up the good work fella's.
I know some people will criticize, and complain. You're entitled to your opinion. But this is mine. Have a great day.
