Ask Ray - Answered questions - Miscellaneous

I am currently a SL4, and usually practice with SL6 players on my team. Often, I'm able to play well and sometimes win a "first to ten" practice match. When I'm shooting around I seem to pocket most of my intended shots with great position. Question is, when it's game time, I have a problem with over thinking and tensing up. What would you suggest I do to fix this? If I could relax I could play to my potential. – Los Angeles, CA

You have found the problem let’s fix it. You might be scared to win, that doesn't mean you don't want to win. You freeze a little under the pressure of the match. This is missing confidence. The more you are able to see the win the more pressure you have to win. Take the match one ball at a time and remember the match isn't over until the last ball is put into the pocket. Don't put winning above playing well. If you focus on how you played the match and not the outcome of the match you will play your best pool and the win will take care of its self. – Ray

I am a skill level 6. I would like to engage higher level players in practice to improve, however they seem unwilling to play with a woman outside of competition. How can I get better practice partners? – Portland, OR

Match up and bet something, table time a drink, let them know you are a serious player wanting to compete against them by offering a bet. That is how I had to get the better players to play me. You are after knowledge and sometimes you have to win it. – Ray

My wife is an awesome player, and well known for her game. She has a problem though with straight-in shots, what will help her with this? – Parma, OH

The straight-in shot has busted a lot of players. Make sure you don't try to do more than the shot will give you. Players try to do too much with the cue ball for shape off of straight in shots. This is a shot that you have to make and take what comes up next. Don't over do it by trying to get prefect on the next shot. The only straight shot I try to set up for is the win. – Ray

I have been playing APA for a little over a year, and my goal is to play at the pro level. I became a SL7 in my very first 9-ball session. How can I advance my game more? Should I seek an instructor? – Puyallup, WA

You seem to have a good jump on your goal. I would keep doing what you’re doing—play, play, play. Play in everything around you and when they ask you to please not play in the local events, move up to the Viking Tour or the bigger tournaments in your area. Try participating in the APA U.S. Amateur Championship, the winner of the event wins paid lodging, travel and entry into a Pro event for the following year. – Ray

Is there a billiards term for being in a very difficult or nearly impossible position? - Charlotte, NC

Some people say, "I'm behind the eight ball." We like to say, "he is in jail." - Ray

In a game of call shot, and prior to the break, a player calls the 8-ball in the side pocket, then breaks and makes the 8-ball in the corner pocket rather than the side, does this player win or loose the game?- Louisville, KY

I've never played a game where if you pocket the eight ball on the break you lose. Worse case you would spot the eight ball before the next shot. - Ray

What are the rules for 7-Ball? - Purvis, MS

Seven Ball is played like 9-Ball. Some 7-Ball tournaments are played different. On the break the non-breaking player picks the side of table they want to pocket the 7-Ball. - Ray

In 8-ball, if there is an opponents ball blocking a pocket which I wish to call as the designated pocket for my object ball, and both balls (my object ball, and the opponents ball) goes in, is that considered a foul? - Boston, MA

If you pocket your ball and your opponent's ball on a good hit it is still your shot. That shot comes up a lot in eight ball and if you want to make it more often use low English and try to hit the ball blocking the pocket full so you don't get a double kiss. - Ray

Can 12, 13 or, 14 year olds play in pool tournament? - Oklahoma City, OK

Yes, if the event sponsor doesn't put an age limit on the event. If a young player wanted to play they would need to contact the promoters and ask if there is an age limit. - Ray

How do I change the tip on my cue? Do you have any advice about making bank shots with the diamond system? - Denver, CO

Make sure the ferrule is clean of any old tip first. Then take the new tip and rough up the bottom using coarse sand paper. I use super glue gel to glue the tip on, make sure the tip is larger than the ferrule. Next, take a utility knife and trim the tip to fit your ferrule. The main thing to know on the diamond system is the angle on the first rail is the same angle off the second rail. This will mean more the more you practice. - Ray

During a game of 8-ball, my object ball was frozen to the rail, I struck the cue very high moving it enough to hit another ball. My opponent called a foul because with this setup, the cue always double kisses off the tip of the stick, although I may not be able to see it or feel it, apparently he could hear the double click. Do I owe him an apology? - Yakima, WA

On some shots it is possible to hear a kiss. I wouldn't apologize just because the balls look like you double kissed. Unless you have a judge to watch the hit it always goes to the shooter. Next time hold your ground if your at the table and you really don't thing you fouled it is their job to ask someone to call the hit. Be a good sport if you know you fouled give up the shot. - Ray

How can you fix the rack spot after people tapping head ball and make a dent? - Pevely, MO

Replace the spot, or even change ends if there isn't a ball return on the table. The table will have a dent in the spot from not only the tapping of balls but from the break impact of the cue ball. Make sure you replace the spot every week if you get a lot of play on the table. - Ray

In the National Singles Championships are there a lot of high handicaps? I am a four and just wondered how good my chances of qualifying were? - Constantine, MI

The APA National Singles Championships are broken down by skill level. People compete with others of their "about" same level, 2's compete against other 2's and 3's, 4's compete against other 4's and 5's, and so on. Everyone has an equal change of winning the championships because of the handicap system; many 2's win, beating 3's, for example. Being a true 4 you should be able to compete and enjoy the tournament, good luck. - Ray

I have played on the APA Junior league for 7 years. I am confident that I could compete in a large tournament setting, and would like to try. - Denver, CO

Look for local or area tournaments on the web. I played in big tournaments when I was 19 and if the room doesn't sell alcohol you should be able to play. - Ray

I was playing 8-ball and my opponent hit his ball in then mine. What is the ruling on this? - Calabassa, CO

If your friend hit the eight ball first it is a winning shot. It doesn't matter what balls are pocketed if they call and pocket the eight on a legal hit. - Ray

My husband is a Skill Level 7 and a 9, I'm a 2 and a 3. I love the game but this is the only sport that I'm NOT good at. He's always really supportive of my game but sometimes if I miss a shot he'll ask me something stupid like "why did you do it that way" How do I make him understand that HE's been playing this game for 16 years and I just started? I still don't understand all the in's & out's yet. I know he's just trying to get me to see things the right way but I'm the type that if you say I can't do that I'll figure out a way. How do I get him to remember what it was like and how hard it was starting out? - Salem, OR

My girlfriend plays and I'm the same way. I wish I had the answer to that one. I try to stay back until she asks me what she should have done. I've found what works best is that I don't intimidate her that way and she seems to take in the advice better. Make a deal with him to do the same. It will have a better affect on both of your games. That problem will always be there just try to figure out what and when he should help. - Ray

During 8 ball play, I was criticized for not breaking "aggressively". I actually made at least one ball on two out of three breaks. Does the fact that I am making balls mean it is still legal even if I am not pounding the break? - Ann Arbor, MI

Yes, it is a legal break. I think you need a game play when you play and if you think you out move most of the other players, using that break is very smart. - Ray

Are there and youth pool tournaments coming up anywhere? - Calgary, Canada

The Internet would be the first place to start. Some APA League Operators host Junior League play, if your local League Operator does not, check with your local pool hall to see if they have any junior tournaments. The best tip for young players I have is, practice and keep and open mind when people give you pointers. - Ray

Is it legal to call a safe on the 8-ball? - The Villages, FL

It doesn't hurt to call a pocket; you never know when you might screw up and luck the 8-ball in. You don't have to call a pocket or even safe when playing the eight ball. The only reason a player would call safe on a shot is when they shoot a ball in a pocket and don't want credit for the ball or to give the table up. That is a play in straight pool. - Ray

If you are banking the 8-ball, do you lose if you scratch? - Natchez, MS

That is up to what you agree on with the other player or house rules. When we play bank the eight we play it as a loss of turn. - Ray

I played an older gentleman the other night who called the 8-ball off another ball to win the game. While he said it was a legal call I have always thought the 8-ball had to go clean. Who's right, is there any such rule? - St. Simons, GA

We play call pocket, the 8-ball can go around hit every ball and fall in the pocket you called and you win. If he called the hit it would be a legal shot anywhere I've played. - Ray

I also play another basketball in addition to pool. Will playing any other sports affect my pool game? - Hayward, CA

No, it will help with your hand eye coordination. - Ray

What is the best way to determine value and market a billiard table? - Harrisburg, PA

Value is what you can get out of a table not what you think it is worth or what someone tells you it is worth. The problem with used tables isn't the condition of the table but more the cost of the dismantling of the table and the set up the new owners have to consider when they buy a table from someone other than a dealer. I would call and get your local pricing for that type of job. You have value in the table but it is hard to get that value back because of the labor. Good luck. - Ray

I work at a youth center and the teenage guys bang every shot, they just won't listen! We can't keep tips on the cues. Do you have any suggestions concerning glue that will hold a tip on the cue? - Cleveland, TN

Try Super Glue Gel. Everything needs to be tight. Also, get a video of a couple of pros and let the guys see how the top players play and maybe that will help. If that doesn't work, have them check out the cue and be responsible for each cue. Pool is a discipline you have to make your body and mind work together. - Ray

In straight pool what are the penalties of a scratch? Also, does ball in hand references in straight pool mean behind the head string? - Farmdale, OH

One point and the ball you pocket if any. Yes all balls are behind the head string. - Ray

Can you please tell me the odds of making 6 balls off the break in 9-Ball? My friend and I have a bet going. I think it is easier to make a hole in one in golf than to make 6 balls on a 9 ball break. - Marie, MI

I don't know the true odds, but I would have to say there have been more holes in one than 6 balls on the break. Sorry I couldn't help more. - Ray

Do you have an opinion about the pool games you can play on your computer? Should I stay away or are they better than nothing? - Burke, VA

I haven't played computer pool games but I would have to say it will help your real game. Seeing angles and difference ways to get shape will open your eyes to patterns you don't know. - Ray

Do you have any tips on banking and what videos out there will teach and improve my banking skills? - Powell County, KY

I don't know of any good videos for banking. The best way to get better at something is to spend more time practicing on that area. There is no substitute for practice. - Ray

I workout everyday, I believe this is messing with my stroke. What is a good practice drill to help my stroke? - Riverside, CA

I know guys who work out every day and play pretty close to their top speed day-in-day-out. The thing is they play every day to keep the feel for the shots that require more touch than stroke. Make sure you feel like hitting balls when you play, pool is a mental game if you put your heart into it I don't think you will see much of a let down in your game. - Ray

I was wondering when you play 8-ball where do you place the cue ball to break? I wasn't sure if you pro players broke from the side, like in 9-ball or just in the center. - San Francisco, CA

I break a little off center. The pros will move around until they find the sweet spot. - Ray

In 8-ball, if a player legally pockets his own ball and in the process accidentally pockets another of his own balls does the latter stay pocketed? - Antioch, TN

If you make a legal shot the ball stays down. We never pull up balls anymore. If you make a bad hit the ball stays down and you lose your turn at the table. - Ray

Can you tell me where the term "On the Hill" originated? - Melbourne, FL

I'm not sure. It is probably borrowed from another sport. Sorry I couldn't help. - Ray

Do you understand the APA Equalizer system, how do you feel about it? - Odenton, MD

I feel when you have to have different skill levels play against each other it is hard to have the perfect system. APA is the largest league and they keep getting more players each year, so I give it a thumps up. - Ray

I'm playing in the APA 8-Ball team division and we just won the local playoffs and we are going to the regionals. I was wondering if you have any tips or advice for us while playing in the regionals? – Radford, VA

If your team wants to win keep the partying down. I see that happen the most with teams in the league. Have fun after the win not before. – Ray

Are there any injuries tied to the game of pool? - Onalaska, WI

I don't know of any that pool would have been the only reason for the problem. - Ray

In 8-Ball play, say a shooter is trying to pocket the 8-ball to win the game but misses it completely - is this a foul or loss of game? - Scotia, NY

It is just a foul in the Pro Tournaments. This is a rule that is played different in about every place I've played. - Ray

Say Player 1 shoots and misses but leaves a ball hanging in the pocket. Player 2 steps up to take the shot and the ball suddenly drops in the middle of Player 2's stroke. Does the ball get placed back onto the table, is this a scratch? - Austin, TX

No, the ball should remain in the pocket. - Ray

Where could I get some free information on bank shots? - St. Louis, MO

Try Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman's books. They are not free, but very good. Look back at the January 28th answers to get his contact information. - Ray

How do I become an APA member? Also, when playing 8-Ball, on the break if you make a solid do you have to take solids or do can you take a stripe? - Chicago, IL

You are exactly where you can find out where to join the APA. On the Home Page there is a box called "Find the APA Near You" click on the link in that box and it will take you to a map, click on your state, then click on your county. A map will pop up on the left of the page giving you the contact information of the League Operator in your area. For your second question, 8-Ball can be played both ways. This is something you should agree on with your opponent before the rack is broken. In the APA, when one ball is pocketed, it is still the breaker's turn and he continues shooting the category of balls he just made. If the breaker makes one ball of each category on the break then the breaker has the choice of balls, after he shoots and makes the second ball he is the category of ball he made. - Ray

I was wondering if you could give me some ideas for bringing pool business into the pool hall where I work. - Southern Pines, NC

Each area is different. We don't have much of anything to do around my area; pool is about it; so that is what we do. I would suggest finding out if there is a League Operator in your area and hosting APA Leagues in your bar. Being a Host Location for APA Leagues is no cost to you. The League Operator runs the Leagues, he or she organizes the teams to play out of your location once a week for a session (14 to 16 weeks). The more nights you host, the more customers you can bring in. League Operators also run tournaments and qualifiers for their National events out of local establishments. Check out the Locator Map on the Web site to see if your area has a League Operator. I would also suggest going to billiards shows and consumer shows, like the Super Billiards Expo that just happened in Valley Forge, PA. At these shows you can meet other poolroom owners and share ideas. There are plenty of vendor booths set up to give you ideas on ways to attract customers. I personally, like to play on top equipment, so make sure your billiards equipment is in good shape. - Ray

Is it possible to reach the top of my game? I keep practicing but don't seem to get better - what can I do? - Kirksville, MO

Don't practice on the over-all game; pick out a few thing you have trouble with and try to improve one thing at a time. - Ray

What is the best way to get out of a slump? - Bloomington, IN

Make sure you want to be there. Slumps are a little overrated. You maybe playing just fine but your knowledge of the game may have gotten better and your stroke is not where your mind is. Hang in there, if you want to be there then your game will improve. - Ray

People tell me pool is a mental game. What do you think about when you are at the table? I beat myself with negative self-talk every time. Do you have any suggestions? - Tacoma, WA

When you practice do you think there is no way you will pocket the balls? If you can pocket balls you can beat any player in the world. That is one of the things that makes pool great. If you just try to tell yourself to play pool and not the person at the end of the table you will win a lot of matches. After all, they can't make you miss a shot you made over and over in practice. Work on your game so your confidence level goes up and try to play some people who intimidate you. This will help you get over the feeling of being a deer in the headlights. - Ray

I have small hands and can't really wrap my forefinger around the cue, the stick tends to move in the middle of my stroke, and I end up missing shots. Do you have any suggestions or am I just cursed? - Southbridge, MA

No, you are not cursed. Take the shaft and work on your bridge while watching TV. Take the shaft and stroke it through your fingers as if you were going to shoot a shot on the table. Move your pointer finger and your thumb until you have the comfort and control you need to be consistent. - Ray

How can I become a good pool player? - Virginia Beach, VA

Practice is a must. The rest is up to you. If you like to watch others play, you will learn pretty fast. That is the best way to open your mind to new shots. Seeing is believing. - Ray

Can I buy a good falcon stick for under $400? - Pittston, PA

Yes! Call me at the pool room, 270-683-7393. If I am not there leave your number and a message. - Ray

In a recent game someone from another team said that it is poor sportsmanship to tap the 8 and head ball in a rack with the cue ball when racking in order to get the balls to freeze. Is there a rule against this and it is generally considered bad play? - Millbrook, NY

Yes, you should not hit the balls to get them to freeze. If they will not freeze ask the other player if you may tap to freeze. The pros are not able to tap the balls on tour, only the Tournament Director can do this. - Ray

I was recently involved in a game at a local pool hall. I shot and the ball hung in the corner pocket. After I got up from the table and before the next player got to the table, the ball fell into the pocket on its own. What is the rule that covers this? - Yonkers, NY

The rules say when you leave the table or if enough time had passed where the ball falling in the pocket wasn't from the shot, you replace the ball at the closest spot and the next player has the shot. This is a judgment call and there is a little character required. Sometime pool players are accused of not having any. I would think you or your buddies know if it was from your shot are if you where trying to get credit for a ball you didn't deserve. We all need to have a little backbone when things don't go are way. - Ray

Have you ever played carom billiards before? How many kids in the U.S. do you think play? - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Carom is not my game. I would think there are a lot of young people who play in Chicago and the upper Northeast. I know they have a lot of billiard tables up north. - Ray

I own a Palmer pool stick from 1976. I'll never sell it, but I just had a new tip put on and they say it's worth $700 - $1000. What is your opinion? - Maple Shade, NJ

I'll give you $10 for the cue and case! A lot of Palmers are collectable cues, my guess is as good as yours, and it is possible for it to be worth what they said. - Ray

I have been playing for 7 years. I was wondering, since I live near pro Max Eberle, should I get him to work with me this summer? - Dublin, VA

Max is a good guy to play anytime you can. The best thing to do to get better is to play better players, good luck. - Ray

I joined the APA because I love the game of pool and their handicap system allows me to play with some of the best and still keep up even with my own physical handicap. (I was born with cataracts.) Would you have any special advice for someone who needs to leave the ball closer to his next object ball shot? - Carbondale, IL

Play a lot of straight pool. This will help you with your English and you will be able to play closer. - Ray

I have a 2-year-old son and have started helping him to play. Do you think I'm starting him too young? - Downingtown, PA

No, I think all kids like to see the balls roll around. I was 15 when I started, but I know a lot of great players today that started at about 5. - Ray

I think I am a pretty good player; but I can't seem to get any better. What do you think I should do to improve? - Rhinelander, WI

Join a league. Check out the membership information for the American Poolplayers Association on this Web site. You will meet a lot of players, your ability, higher and lower that you can learn from. Networking and playing others is a great way to improve your game. You also should play and practice other games, like 9-Ball. Mix your routines up. - Ray

I am a senior citizen who just discovered pool. Where can I find an instructor in my area? - Claremont, CA

There are bound to be many fine players in your area, you just need to ask. Ask the bar/tavern/billiard hall owner or manager where you play, if he or she knows of anyone who gives instruction. You can also call billiard supply stores to find out if they give instruction or know of individuals in the area that give private lessons. If you would like to have a great book to help you learn and understand what is happening on your shots I recommend Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman's book, RACK Up A Victory, you can order this book from his Web site, www.drcuepromotions.com. - Ray

I found a book, "The 99 Critical Shots in Pool: Everything You Need to Know to Learn and Master the Game" is this a good book? - Tehran, Iran

Yes, that is a fine book. I would also recommend Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman's book RACK Up A Victory, you can order this book from his Web site, www.drcuepromotions.com. -- Ray

I have noticed a four to five inch difference in bed height between tables around my city. Should I be varying my stance to compensate? - Waukesha, WI

That is a lot to get used to in a little amount of time before you play a match. I would try to practice on the tables as much as I could. Higher tables will make you fell a little uncomfortable; going higher is harder to get used to. - Ray

Is there a commercially available PC program that handicaps players? - Taylor, MI

Not that I know of. Have you tried Virtual Pool? - Ray

How can I adapt quickly to a situation where I play on a new cloth with new reflecting balls? - Belgium

You need to practice with new balls. I don't make a big adjustment when I go from the poolroom to the tournament room. Other and the slide of new cloth the balls seem to react pretty close. - Ray

What is the best way to develop a pre-shot routine? Sometimes I begin shooting faster and faster when I get on a roll. - Austin, TX

This happens to all players. Just let it happen. Try to remember how it fells when you are in that gear and it will be easier to fall into stroke. - Ray

How do you block out distractions while shooting a match, like people talking, loud music or people shouting things (like "Nice ***!)? - Austin, TX

Try to focus on the table and the balls. Let the game come to you and you will find that most of the outside distraction will fade out. I do have to worry about the "Nice ***!" comment, but that only happens in Vegas and only from girls from Texas! - Ray

Do you know where to go to take classes to improve yourself in playing pool? - Cleveland, OH

Yes, go to your local poolroom. Watch others play, you can even ask the owner or manager if he knows of any local instructors. But really, the best thing you can do is play in a League, you will learn a lot. Also, another good self-teaching tool are VHS tapes of Pro instruction. - Ray

What happens if the 8-Ball is accidentally knocked into the pocket, say with a shirtsleeve, but the object ball is properly pocketed? - Salem, VA

The 8-ball should be placed back in its last position. If you can't remember or if you and your opponent don't agree where it was then spot it. - Ray

Is there any way to gain focus while practicing? - Huston, TX

Yes, put more pressure on yourself to perform while practicing. Try to be perfect. I like to see if I have a pocket for each ball. If I don't I, like to look for the right spot to play safe before I shoot the first ball. - Ray

I have been playing for 7 years, but still get nervous sometimes when I play, does this happen to you? - Rochester, PA

It happens to us all. If the game is important to you, you will have to deal with your nerves. The more matches you play the better you will play and handle your nerves in the match. - Ray

What is the best way to get consistency? - Chicago, IL

The longer you do something the better you should be. Keep up the work and zero in on the problem shots. - Ray

On the last shot in 9-Ball, the 9 is legally pocketed, but the player also scratches; does he win? - Bovey, MN

The 9-ball should be spotted and the player has ball-in-hand. - Ray

I recently played a friend in straight pool and shot better then I ever have, and I thought I was at the top of my game. Is it possible to improve one's game that much in just one practice session? - Tallahassee, FL

The practice you had in one day didn't get you where you played that match at a higher level, all the time you played up to that match was what made you play so well. There is a saying in pool "You just wake up a champion." - Ray

Here is the situation, I have cleared all of the stripes and missed the 8-ball. My opponent has three solid balls to shoot still. On his turn he shoots the cue ball and places it behind two of his balls for what he calls a safety. He did not hit any cushion with the cue ball or any of his object balls. I am blinded with no chance to make contact with the 8. Is this legal safe? - Staten Island

The answer is not that simple. It is a foul in most places you play, but that's it. Every place has what they call "House Rules" which are simple rules to keep players from fighting. If you need a call - FOUL it is. - Ray

After a break and nothing falls, the table is open. Can I use the 8-Ball in a cross combination shot hitting the 8-ball first to sink either a solid or stripe or is the 8-ball not considered a neutral ball on an open table? - Denver, CO

The eight ball is never neutral. - Ray

When choosing between playing safe on a difficult safety and pocketing a ball on a difficult shot is the choice as easy as assessing the probability of success of each then choosing the higher probability option? Assume that missing the safety and missing the shot have equal consequence. What other factors should be considered? - Hartland, MI

If you need to turn things around in a match, go for it. I always go with offense if all things are equal. After all if you miss the shot there is nothing saying you will leave the player a make-able shot. - Ray

My problem is I get so nervous trying to be perfect that I choke. I am a 6 in 8-Ball, would a lot of practice help or an attitude adjustment? - Maple Shade, NJ

Well, practice is good, but you need to put yourself in the hot seat until you have a comfort level where you just play. - Ray

In an 8-Ball game if the last ball (other than the 8-ball) is inadvertently hit off of the table is the ball spotted after or before the next shooter hits? - Toronto, MT

You need to look at the rules in the area that you are playing. Rules I play by drop everything down. We don't spot balls back on the table unless it is the winning ball. - Ray

I want to open up a billiards room in my town, any suggestions? - St. George, UT

Any business you own is like having a baby, don't do it if you can't put the time in. If you do a poolroom, please put Gold Crown tables or Diamond tables in. If you need help with the table cost call Diamond Tables, they have a new table they can put in at no cost to you, also ask them about the lease. - Ray

How do you divert negative attitudes out of your mindset? - Whitefish, MT

Repeat after me, "I will put a good stroke on this shot no matter what happens. I will stay down on the shot"…What I am getting at is fill your mind with positive thoughts. Work on this like you would a shot. - Ray

I am interested in getting professional training. It is hard to know what is best. I've heard good things about a couple of pool schools. Do you have any suggestions or guidance? - Fairfax, VA

I am sure some of the schools are very good, but unless you just want to travel and enjoy the trip, don't go. I think you would be better served buying pool on tapes and watch as many matches as you can. Then go to the poolroom and work on some of the things you like in the video. Try this first, if you seem to be having a problem understanding some of the things you are seeing, ask a good player in the area to help. - Ray

When I first start a match I am loose, my stroke is fluid, but I suddenly lose it. I start playing like its my first time and my stroke goes downhill. Do you have any suggestions to overcome this? - Levittown, NY

That is the difference between being ranked #1 or #50. Most players have this to deal with. The more you play the more you will play around the top of your level. When you start to lose your focus try to keep your mind in the game. This is the part of the game that takes time. Keep working on playing and getting better, your game will come around. - Ray

When calling a shot, the ball goes in another pocket other then the one you called, does it result in a loss of turn and the ball spotted or do you lose the turn and the ball stays pocketed? - Bronx, NY

In APA rules you do not have to call every shot, only the 8-ball. But if you don't play APA rules, in this case you lose your turn; the rest is up to House Rules. The Pros play everything down. - Ray

How do you block out environmental issues such as the crowd, cameras, and a competitor with poor sportsmanlike conduct? - Glen Burnie, MD

It just happens. When I'm playing well I don't see or hear anything. If I'm having a problem will my game everything comes in. I just try to look and focus on the table. - Ray

I was watching Color of Money and Tom Cruise said, "I'll spot you the seven." They were playing 9-Ball, what did they mean? - San Antonio, TX

It means you get two winning balls, the 7 and the 9. If you pocket one of them you win. - Ray

Is the effect of the English on the object ball completely gone after it has struck the second rail? - Youngstown, OH

Yes, on most banks. The angle of the bank has little to do with it, like coming out of the corner with a two-rail bank. This is an angle that the cue ball will have English after the second rail. - Ray

I contacted a Florida APA Representative about starting a youth pool league; I have to get about 30 people involved in order to start a division. Do you think I am doing the right thing for the youth of pool? - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Sure, anyone willing to help promote the sport is always good. I thank you for working with the younger players. I know pool needs to develop a strong youth league for the sport to have a chance to compete with other new sports, like "Curling." - Ray

A local Pro player often comes into the bar I work and play out of; he's given me one lesson, but I haven't been able to get another lesson. Do you have any suggestions on how to get more lessons? - Pearl, MS

Try to only ask for a pointer. I don't mind to help but if I'm out trying to relax I don't feel like giving a long lesson. - Ray

Do you think that by sandbagging you can actually improve your game or does it hurt your game? - Gaithersburg, MD

It is hard to sandbag and then play at your top level. I don't like people to lay down but if you think that is what pool is about good luck. The people who sandbag really have no place in a league, if you want to make money that way be careful. - Ray

I have a hard time controlling my nerves and concentration, so my consistency is really poor. What are the best ways to get them under control? - Tacoma, WA

Practice longer, the longer you practice the better you will focus for your match. Feeling good about you game will help both. - Ray

Pool comes pretty natural to me. I started out playing with the "local legends" of our small town. I was pretty bad at first but in a short time I have become a lot better. However, I feel I have lost my "zone" or mental focus. Any suggestions? Also, Do you have a tip on making the object ball when it's kissing the rail? - Freer, TX

I'm glad you are a natural, but there is still a lot of work to do. If the cue ball is frozen on the rail you need the hit the rail and the object ball at about the same time. This shot should come pretty fast if you work on it a few minutes. Local legends in small towns play OK but I was beating some of the guys I thought could really play. It only took a few weeks of practicing hard. The players I thought could really play back then were really not good at all. I remain friends with most of them and I'm glad they still play and pull for me in the tournaments. Be careful for the fingers you step on today because they might be the same fingers that help you up tomorrow. - Ray

When I shoot in an APA match I start to shake a little but when I'm out shooting with friends I don't shake at all. What can I do to stop the shaking? - Dunn, NC

You will shake if the match is important to you or your team. You never lose the shake; you learn to play with it. The more you play under pressure the better you will perform with the heat on. Welcome to real pool, good luck. - Ray

Sometimes I seem to play down, below my ability when I play people of lesser skill. I think it is because subconsciously I don't feel the need to focus as much to win. What are some tricks you use to keep your game up when the pressure is not there? - Mishawaka, IN

Play to win every time. I want to win every game I play no matter if it is with a person who playing for the first time or if I'm in a tournament playing the #1 player in the world. Pool is about playing your best on every shot. - Ray

I heard a lot of good things about the Predator shafts, so I bought one. However, it has dramatically reduced my accuracy with position. Should I go back to my Joss shaft? I feel like I'm learning to play all over again. - Baltimore, MD

I would go back to the Joss shaft. I don't like the Predator shaft because of the center is not prefect. When they turn the shaft there is no way to keep a turn center this will create a different hit on every shot unless you turn the shaft to the same spot every time. - Ray

I'm a salesman that goes to Louisville, KY; where is a good place to shoot? - Norwood, OH

The Bank Shot, downtown... Have fun, and don't gamble playing bank pool, Louisville is a tough town to win. - Ray

I recently went from a 5 to a 6 in 9-ball last session; quickly becoming a 7. My job has me mentally stressed on Monday league nights that I really play on the 5 level I once was. I have won only 2 games out of 2 sessions as a 6 but smoked a load of excellent top dawgs in our area as a 5. Are there any mental routines I can do before match play to help me be more focused? I play 7 days a week, 4-5 hours a night. One would think I should be a 9 skill level by now. - Lowell, NC

Yes, maybe as a five it was to easy. You said you can play as a 7-do it. - Ray

If someone waves off an easy shot on the 9-ball, is this considered good or bad sportsmanship? - Houston, TX

I'd love for the other guy to give 9-balls to me, I don't like to give them up. Any shot can be missed remember that. - Ray

In 8-Ball what is the official rule if you pocket the 8-ball in on a break? - Clawson, MI

The official rule is the rules you are playing by at the time. Rules very from room to room and tournament to tournament. I always play it as a win and the APA rules dictate that is a win and in pro tournaments it is a win. - Ray

I am primarily a Snooker player but I have begun to enjoy the game of 9-ball. I play a few local tournaments now and then, usually placing 2nd; I can't seem to cross that threshold. I would love to try my hand at professional 9-Ball but I don't have a clue as to where I could start. - Columbus, OH

Play more tournaments, this will give you more opportunity for a win and look in the pool magazines for up coming pro events you can enter. - Ray

When I play billiards and I use slow to medium speed my accuracy is great, but when I start to put some speed on the shots I loose the accuracy. Do you have any thoughts on what I am doing to kill my game? - Philadelphia, PA

You are coming up on the shot trying to create seed and force. Practice the firm shots and really try to stay down threw the shot. - Ray

What would be the best way for me to build my consistency on the pool table? - Raynham, MA

Keep practicing and try to play in tournaments with better players. - Ray

Not forcing the game, let it come to you. If you miss a shot let it go and you will play better. - Ray

When playing pool I have a tough time looking three balls ahead. Any tips on how I can focus myself to always look three balls ahead? - Huston, TX

Why? That is just crap. Sometimes you can do that but most games you can look at the table to find your "out-ball" and work on getting there. The "out-ball" is the ball that once you get there you should be able to get out. Just try to read the table before you make your decision. - Ray

If you shot the 8-ball and it then hits the other players' ball and then goes in to the called pocket is it legal? - Simpsonville, SC

Good shot! - Ray

It seems I cannot overcome the nervousness of the match. Do you have any suggestions how to overcome these "jitters" and be able to play my game? - St. Louis, MO

Jitters are a lack of confidence. The more you put yourself in pressure matches and do well the better you will perform. - Ray

I still get nervous when I play a match. I don't have this problem when I'm warming up beforehand, or practicing, or playing after the match is over. What can I do? - Temecula, CA

I don't let the match play me. I might take a little more time on shots early in a match to get a feel for the table. - Ray

Try to get in a comfortable stance and go from there. The first thing to a good stance is comfort. - Ray

In making my stroke, I sometimes swing from the elbow, keeping the shoulder joint fixed, then other times I swing from the shoulder and keep the elbow fixed; which is better for the stroke to make it most effective in making the shot? - District Height, MD

Keep the shoulder out of the stroke. - Ray

What is three-cushion pool and what is the difference between a regular and three-cushion cue stick? - Toledo, OH

Three-cushion pool is played with no pockets on the table. It has to do with caroms and kicks. You have four balls on the table two cue balls and two object balls. One cue ball is yours, you want to hit one object ball and have the cue ball carom off and strike the other object ball. For the last point you hit the object ball and the cue must travel three rails or more and hit the other object ball. - Ray

My question is about the proper stance of player when making a shot. How should he hold the cue in relation to his body, positioning of his body and head? - Silver Spring, MD

Look around and watch pool on TV and you will find that none of the players stand alike. The most important thing is balance. - Ray

In your opinion, which is harder golf or pocket billiards? I say golf is more forgiving and doesn't require the physics knowledge billiards does. What kind of high run in 14.1 would one have to establish to equate the skill level of a scratch golfers skill level on a medium to hard course? - Katy, TX

I think pool has a little more to deal with than golf. In golf you don't leave the other players behind a tree. One thing most pool players don't understand is that in pool, like golf, you have to deal with the effects of the weather. The weather has a lot to do with the play of a table. Both are very tough to play at a high level but I would say if you run 75 balls it would be scratch. - Ray

Could you provide an overview of the rules for one pocket? Please focus on the break requirements and the penalty for a foul on the break and during play. Also once a player gets 8 is the game over? - Katy, TX

I would suggest you go to the Billiards Library and buy a book of rules, this way you have all the rules. On the break two balls must hit a rail after contact. If you foul you owe a ball to be spotted later if you don't have one. That's pretty much it; when you foul you give a ball back. - Ray