In the two examples you quoted, there is no significance to raking the balls. Either scenario could have been accomplished by a verbal concession. So are you really against raking in particular or concessions in general?
(snipped)
It makes no difference whether you pick up his ball and toss it to him or simply say "That's good" and let him pick it up.
I replied rather quickly as I was heading out the door so I didn't really give my reply full attention and re-evaluation prior to posting.My apologies for not making it a well thought out reply.
*opinion warning*
To answer your question highlighted in blue above, it depends. Again it goes back to intentions (or my interpretation of those intentions at that moment). This really is a not so much a yes or no answer question.
I see your point about gamesmanship and strategy regarding golf, and I agree that it somewhat applies to pool as well. I'm not against "it's good" on a mid set game winning hanger ball, nor do I see it as a "move". I think a concession is acceptable in that situation.
However, I am against raking a table of several/many balls where the outcome is yet to be determined (anything can and will happen from time to time). I see it a few different ways, its either a "move" or ones ability to not control their emotional outbursts. I also see it as an outright disrespect of both the opponent and the game. Nobody wants to be around or play against an opponent that is either mentally/emotionally unstable, or acts out like a child. It's just not enjoyable or worthy of my time and effort.....
Maybe it's that class and respect for ones self and others is a thing of the past. I don't see why the game can't be played respectfully of others. I judge ones class and character by not only how they win, but also by how they lose as well. Everybody wins, and everybody loses, so why the need to be rude or unsportsmanlike like in either situation. Be a man, shake hands and move on. If it bothers one that bad, improve ones self!
Speaking of "moves or sharking". In my opinion shows weakness, and ones lack of confidence and/or self respect. I see it as a cheat, which in turn only builds my confidence even more. When I get "moves" put on me, my reaction is back off the shot and go into super slow play mode. I let the "move" on me, be a tool to let the steam build up of the "mover". It's not always effective, but is more often than not in my experiences.
So by not answering your question directly, I gave the best reply I think I could.
Dopc.... feeling the heat...
EDIT: I'd also like to add, that my interpretation of raking is to wipe the table of many balls mid game in a fit of rage or as an outburst of emotion., not just pushing the winning ball in the hole as a concession. So I think thats where my diversion of the original topic originated. I really need to learn to re-read threads and make sure I fully understand the original post and the following replies prior to replying in the future. My apologies....
