It's funny, I was just reflecting on this.
Yesterday (Sunday) before 1PM, I took my wife to the pool hall. She hadn't played in 10 years because of her arthritis, but she's going again. She can't play long due to multiple physical disabilities, but she's trying. We also went Saturday evening and got a table in the back, where it was less busy, away from the bar traffic and noise. She also has PTSD so the noise and people traffic is a problem.
The hall is all 9 foot gold crowns.
Table number 1 at the front is where the managers plays, or the old guys that are regulars. It is set up with tighter pockets while the rest are recreational size. Table 4 is right next to it. This puts it close to the entrance/exit, bathrooms, and bar. It's a quiet time. No real traffic or noise. One guy was practicing on table 1, and I recognized him. We got Table 4, right next to him. There were many tables open.
Shortly after, the manager showed up and it was clear he and the guy at table 1 had some games planned...and we were right next to them. I don't know if these were money games.
Our table was end to end with theirs. Several times one or the other player politely stepped aside to give clearance.
My wife is obviously just a banger. I don't play "serious" with her. It's just me and the wife getting some time together.
So, the table selection is based on whatever will best suit her according to her disabilities, and it changes depending on how busy the pool hall is.
Maybe I should post on "Am I The Asshole"?
YMMV.
When I am by myself or with a more serious player, I typically pick the best table available, number one if it is open.
In the past, when out with a group of friends for a good time, I would pick the table farthest in the back corner because I knew we would be a little rowdy and having fun, they aren't really players. It's been years since I have done that, but since I am back at it, I may have some "non-player" friends meet me there for fun some time again.
