“Let me start, Matt, with clarifying one of my previous statements:
‘...So to avoid a nice 7 ball run from the start with the last two hanging, I try to force that position onto my opponent.
That means I try to let my opponent run the middle balls in 9-Ball and leave me the last two for the win. Most of the ladies are only good for a 4 or 5 ball run consistently, so I'll try to make the first couple and leave them a shot on the three or four ball... they are usually out of position (or gas) by the 7-ball, leaving me at the table with the last two or three.
That was my strategy in regional competition. Obviously it worked at that level, and got me this far, to a national playoff. But now I'm a little concerned about playing gals and attempting a big ball run against those who may very well be capable of getting out from the four ball. I mean, they are all champions at this point.
And I know that we should always play the TABLE not the OPPONENT (a point you were making to me as well in your last teaching), but at this women's level... there's a little more room for sizing up one's opponent, I think. There's a greater range of skill and talent on the women's side than before.
I am interested in hearing more about how nonverbal or verbal signals can affect the game. I definitely approach the table as if I own the place... I've had lots of people tell me over the years that I can be intimidating even before I shoot, so I'm not worried about exuding confidence. I definitely believe that I can and should win.
But, is there more to it than that? It sounds like you were alluding to more than conveying confidence. Can you elaborate for me?
When it comes down to it, I'm confident about my game, my defense, my stroke... the only thing that really scares me is the inevitable panic that sets in when I get there and I ask myself if I am really worthy of this huge undertaking for a national championship. Because I've been there before... and that's what happened, panic.
But, in the same line of thinking, I've already “been there and done that...” most of the others lack my experience in this respect as well. So, now I can chalk up my fear to an advantage... but I still have to conquer my fear. Yikes!”
Great questions, all. Let’s address them in order for my student and for you, dear reader.
Q. Should I attempt a lengthy ball run (from the early balls in 9-Ball for the win) against highly skilled players?
A quick calculation of percentages is the first step. Even if you’re 90% likely to make each of the last five given balls in a competition game, you are just about 60% likely to make all five. If you then tack on the 4-ball, you can still commit to the run, as long as you stop and reassess if the cue ball position goes awry.
It takes tremendous discipline to be part way through a ball run before stopping to consider a lock safe possibility on the table. Professional pool players know to do so whenever needed.
Next, I review this all-important ball run issue in depth.
