(About the author)

(This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.)

Use the exercise below and learn to move the cue ball over precise distances.

1. Place a donut (paper reinforcement ring) where the cue ball starts.
2. Put the Post-It sheet about a diamond away from the cue ball.
3. Shoot the object ball onto the Repeat until mastered.
4. Move the sheet closer and master that
5. Continue working on finer and finer control.

Repeat this once a month. During a competition, a couple of slow roll practice strokes are all that is needed to remind your muscle memory. Continue reading →

(About the author)

This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.

In all types of competition, there is an element of the game played above the table. In the minds of every player is the battle to hold strong the drive and will to win. Forces that affect this intention begin with the player’s opinion of his personal self-worth, usually proven by table results. Win one or more games and personal opinions are positive; lose one or more games and it can begin a self-defeating downward spiral. Continue reading →

(About the author)

This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.

A bad angle is any shot that is not within the shooter’s skills to pocket. It does not have to be impossible, but must be a low percentage shot for your opponent. (Low percentage means that the shot cannot be pocketed more than 30-40% of the time – 3 or 4 out of 10 tries.) Continue reading →

(About the author)

(This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.)

"Know your enemy" has been a basic principle of strategic and tactical warfare planning throughout history. Understanding your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses helps you develop effective plans to defeat him. Continue reading →

(About the author)

This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.

All defensive shot selections must include a consideration of its effect on your opponent. Observe his reactions immediately after executing a defensive shot. Individually, taken shot by shot, these have little effect, but over time you should see him emotionally respond to your efforts. Continue reading →

(About the author)

(This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.)

When a shot is at the edges of your comfort/chaos zone, the chances of being successful may be less acceptable. For example, if you can only make the shot 40% of the time and it is a critical situation, that chance of missing may be more than you are willing to allow. Continue reading →

(About the author)

(This is today's bit of advice from the book Safety Toolbox.)

When your opponent's chaos zone has been defined, you can easily setup traps, known as temptation shots. These are hero shots just beyond your opponent's abilities and control. They look within reach, but are tantalizing ghosts. He might succeed once in a while, but the odds are in your favor. Continue reading →