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Billiards Player

What To Learn

High School

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The game is becoming more specialized. There are separate tournaments and leagues for players who shoot eight-ball, nine-ball and straight pool.

While the shooting doesn't change much, each game does have its own set of strategies. Learning to play a certain game well may help launch a pro career.

Pool, say the pros, is a relatively simple game to play and learn. All you need to get started is access to a table and a cue. Most players receive little or no formal instruction.

Players begin as amateurs. They move into the ranks of semi-professionals by earning points by placing high in tournaments. Semi-pros who place high in sanctioned tournaments on a regular basis are then granted professional status.

You don't need formal education to be a professional pool player. But most players have some advanced education. They say it helps with their other pursuits, including teaching pool, organizing pool tournaments events and running their own billiard halls. A business degree may be the best choice.

Besides, several players say they honed their playing skills while in college. Some universities have intramural pool leagues or pool teams.

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

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