When I first walked into Mafia Mike’s pool hall, a semi-circle layout of tables, evenly measured out in a big open space, thriving with light and vigor a pool Oasis — the place was alive and thriving with people playing pool. It was like coming home. I felt at ease — at one with the game. The pool arena exudes pool, and opens up into a room awash with green. Mafia Mike’s pool hall is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on Google — but I rate it a 5. It’s a small place, but has a big

Joseph Young had the chance to sit down and interview Matt Krah, who is ranked number 27th men’s professional and number one ranked on the Mezz Tour. Hi Matt, Tell me a little about yourself: Q: Where are you from? A: Newark, Delaware Q: Aside from your professional career in pool, do you have another occupation? If so, how did you get into that? How much time do you spend there vs practicing, competing, promoting pool? A: Besides pool, I work in sales and marketing for a man

Every player would agree that pool needs all the help it can get. From manufacturers to retailers, from leagues to professional players—everyone talks, few take action. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Emily Duddy, WPBA’s 2010 Rookie of the Year and an enthusiastic ambassador for our sport. She frequents tournaments and events as much as she’s on social media promoting and supporting her sponsors. Keep your eye out for more to come from Emily Duddy!” Q: Where are y

Wilson: Changing the Game Mark Wilson—the current 2014 team USA Mosconi Cup captain—is a class act in the game of pocket billiards. He is an individual who believes in ending the seedy counterculture and stigma the game currently maintains. He lives by a code of discipline, honor, dignity and respect. Always respect. “We have set out to change the direction of the sport and the fortunes of the U.S. in the Mosconi Cup by building a proper culture surrounding the game and its i

At 17, Kelly Isaac became enthralled with watching patrons of a local hall shoot pool. She observed their games intently—studying their stances, bridges, successful shots, and frustrating misses. It was only a matter of time before she gave in to the pull of bright green felt and vibrantly colored balls. Bob Dilley, the owner of the pool hall, complimented Kelly on her “natural stroke.” Those few, unsolicited words of encouragement were the platform upon which Kelly built her

There are a lot of players in the Cue sports industry; some are well known and others—not so much. Then there are the players that you should know. One of those people is Sweet David Crosby. David was born in Orlando, Florida. He is an accomplished musician, playing several instruments, and mastering several genres. He’s also an accomplished Martial Artist and a compassionate human being, but his game is pool. His only advice is that you need the Five S’s: The shot. The stanc

The first thing that strikes me about Devin Poteet is a drawl in his speech that resides somewhere between Southern and Midwestern. The “Loser Bracket Warrior,” as he was affectionately coined within the pool circuit for his ability comeback after a first round loss, is a 17 year old pool phenom from Paragould, Arkansas. Like most teenagers, Devin is a man of few words, but he graciously granted me an opportunity to speak with him about the game that rules his life. Q: When d