Molly Stark of Spanaway, Wash., never thought she would qualify for Regionals at her first Singles Qualifier, and she definitely did anticipate qualifying for the National Singles Championship at her first Regional, but she surprised herself when she did! Even more exciting was that she had only returned to pool just months before qualifying. She played in the APA in 2007, but then lost touch with the sport after getting married. When she and her husband, who’s in the military, moved to Washington Molly decided to take up the sport again.
“I’ve really enjoyed getting back into the world of pool. I currently play on three teams,” Stark said. “I’ve also counted myself very lucky to have met the people I play pool with in this area, and look forward to hopefully continuing to play with them for years to come. My husband’s time in the military is almost up, and we’d both like to stay here in Washington permanently.”
Molly is competing in the 9-Ball Shootout White Tier. She’s concentrated on doing her best; just qualifying is an accomplishment in itself.
“APA helped bring me back out of my shell and regain confidence in myself,” Stark said. “I’ve improved so much in the past year alone and I would love to continue improving. Even if I don’t win or take a big placing in the event, I’m very happy to be going and at least to give it my all in the competition!”