Tip Of The Week

 

Number: 38 Jim Tellier March 2012

 

TOPIC: Whyd Ya Lose? Ya Shoulda Won!!!

 

CATEGORY: All Skill Levels

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Most matches (or games) are decided by who makes the most mistakes, NOT by who is necessarily the better player! This is true at ALL skill levels, from total beginner to world-class pro. If you keep that in mind, your instinct will change from gotta run this rack out!! to can I run this rack out?. Big difference!

 

 

TECHNIQUE:

 

Heres a simple checklist to use if you find yourself selling out more often than you should. (Well ok, nobody should ever sell out, but you know what I mean!).

 

         Try (no, really! TRY! it cant hurt anything, and eventually it will help you see the plan!) to plan the entire rack from the break.

         Avoid low-percentage shots that are a) outside of your comfort zone, or b) would leave your opponent in good shape.

         During your plan for each and every shot, think about what happens if you miss. If you dont like the answer to that question, look at all of the other possible shots on the table, and see if theres one that will leave you better off IF you miss. Every game is different: make your choice based on the big picture.

         Develop your own personal philosophy and plan for when to play a safety. When you become more and more aware of your skills and limitations, know what shots you are likely to make and which ones are iffy, you will know when to switch into safety mode more instinctively.

Forget about running out when there are obstacles that you wont likely be able to solve (unreachable ball(s), clusters that arent easily broken up, etc). Play a safe, and put yourself back in the drivers seat. Repeat until you can see a clear path to a win!

Theres always a lot of information on Dr. Daves site:www.billiards.colostate.edu

 

Capn Carom

 

May your Next Shot be on the 8-ball!