SPM Writers Area

I had the pleasure to interview Sam Rullo, TAP (the Association for Pool) founder and owner of the Laurel Highlands division in PA, and the Sales Director for TAP Corporate, where he handles all the contracts for new licensees throughout the US. Sam got his start in billiards when he visited a local bar with his dad at age 10. That started a love affair with pool that has not abated in the many years since. As a teen, he would play at the local bowling alley. He’s from wester

It wasn’t that long ago a few players were using headphones during practice, and even fewer were using them while playing league or during a local tournament. However, in recent months there has been a striking upswing in use. It appears that more players are seeing a benefit to their game by blocking out peripheral noise and getting into the “zone.” Upon asking several players who wear headphones about the benefits, the consensus is they have better focus, they are less lik

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 feel at 2700 square feet, with six 7 ft Valley tables — which are open and rented at $6 an hour, rather than coin operated, dollar a game.   They have 5 smoke filters spinning above — charcoal filtered — mounted in the ceiling that look like space age ceiling fans. They are very effective it appears;  “You can sit here in the back of the bar and look up to the

I am truly impressed and amazed by this 12-year old’s list of accomplishments that it gives me hope that the sport is alive and well. Coached and motivated by his father, takes lessons from a billiard author and instructor and is sponsored by one of the biggest names in the industry, this young man is destined to be on a short list of the nation’s top players. Charlie Marshall Jr.’s accomplishments: First and currently the only junior player sponsored by Predator® Products, W