He is often the emcee and sometimes director of major tournaments. How did he wind up in this position? I know Jay Helfert's story from reading his book. Is Shuman a former pro?
Who is Ken Shuman?
- Thread starter PocketSpeed11
- Start date
I don't know Ken's background but I have seen him in action at many, many events and he performs a tough, thankless job with a ton of class, professionalism, and unimpeachable integrity.
Lou Figueroa
Well said Lou. Ken is a fantastic referee and tournament chair who holds himself to the highest possible standards of professionalism.
He is occasionally overshadowed in Matchroom events by the attractive, popular Michaela Tabb, but that doesn't reflect negatively on him at all.
I've had the pleasure of working with Ken at several pool events. In the USA, Ken is considered the number one ref. He knows the rules inside and out and carries the BCA Rulebook with him whenever he's working, just in case an unusual situation arises. Whenever you see Ken working at a tournament, you know that tournament will run pretty smoothly because Ken is always prepared.
In addition, Ken serves as a Tournament Director/Master of Ceremonies at many major events. Because he knows every pool game so well, you'll even occasionally hear Ken doing the play-by-play in the Accu-Stats booth.
Ken can play, too, although he's not a pro. I think Jay Helfert can give him some weight.
I've known Ken for about 13 years. He has been a local Sacramento pool player for a long time.
Just a quick bio,
Ken is a good pool player and can handle the Tim Scruggs cue he owns rather well.
Ken is a Senior National BCAPL Referee. Ken helped re-write the BCAPL rules manual a few years ago.
Ken and I worked as officials with the IPT organization. We worked the final 4 matches with 2 other officials (Ken being the Head Official) for the Million dollar IPT tournament in Reno NV in 2006.
Ken has been the TD, co-TD or officiated for the DCC, US Open 9 Ball, 10 Ball, 8 Ball and One pocket events for the last 7+ years. BTW he also did the Galveston Tx event.
Ken also did an officiating job for the World 10 Ball event in the Philippines.
Ken's commentary for the Streaming events he's been involved in, has been very well received.
Just a quick bio,
Ken is a good pool player and can handle the Tim Scruggs cue he owns rather well.
Ken is a Senior National BCAPL Referee. Ken helped re-write the BCAPL rules manual a few years ago.
Ken and I worked as officials with the IPT organization. We worked the final 4 matches with 2 other officials (Ken being the Head Official) for the Million dollar IPT tournament in Reno NV in 2006.
Ken has been the TD, co-TD or officiated for the DCC, US Open 9 Ball, 10 Ball, 8 Ball and One pocket events for the last 7+ years. BTW he also did the Galveston Tx event.
Ken also did an officiating job for the World 10 Ball event in the Philippines.
Ken's commentary for the Streaming events he's been involved in, has been very well received.
I don't say this about many MEN but I love this guy. Tough to find a nicer, Gentleman, friend, good for the sport, friendly, informed pool lover and all around GREAT guy than Ken. I am honored to consider him a friend. Anyone just needs to spend 10 mins with him and you will know, as long as he isn't your ref in your match as he will call it as he sees it with honesty and integrity so don't expect any friend favors.
I don't know Ken's background, but a big +1 for the compliments for him. He seems to run a great tournament, is highly professional, and is a great commentator. He is very knowledgeable about the game, and does a good job staying focused on the match when in the commentary booth. Seems like a really nice guy too.
KMRUNOUT
KMRUNOUT
I agree, Ken does a bang up job! --Smitty
Watch this match and I ask Ken how he got into it when we commentated together. He is a class act and always a pleasure to see.
http://youtu.be/Spx-eohCtr8
http://youtu.be/Spx-eohCtr8
Jerry Forsyth
Well-known member
I have always loved Kenny because until he gets there I am the ugliest guy in the room.
lol..... Jerry with the jokes.
that must be recent.. last I knew 93 was it... Didn't Ken retire from the Fed Gov but while working he spent all of his vacation time at tournaments