The youth movement in pool is growing stronger and larger every year. The BEF and On The Wire are factors in helping provide events for the youth to play in. But without a youth playing pool, there are no youth events. One of the unsung heroes in the exploding youth movement in pool is the support of the parents. The parents of our next featured player are examples of just that. They gave up their master bedroom suite and stayed in a guest room for 2 years so their daughter could practice on a 9 table. Aryana Lynch is an 18 year old player from Dallas Texas. Aryanna has experienced many successes in her early career, such as wins on the Women’s Gulf Tour, Dr Cue’s lag challenge, and even mixing it up with Allison Fisher at the Super Billiards Expo. Pool has allowed her to travel with her family to such places as Italy for the Atlantic Cup and Russia and India. Sponsored by Pechauer, Aryanna continues to prove that she is a force to be reckoned with.
How old were you when you started playing and when did you take it seriously?
I started playing for fun when I was 7 years old but didn’t start playing competitively until I was 13 years old.
Take us through a practice session. How often do you practice, how long, and what do you do in your sessions?
I try and practice an hour each day of the week and a couple of hours during the weekend. Depending on how I am feeling, I’ll work on my break, shots that I want to be more consistent at, or I will practice my pre-stroke routine while shooting balls.
What do you think is your best/favorite accomplishment to date?
My favorite accomplishment is definitely winning the Team USA MVP award at the Atlantic Challenge Cup in Italy in 2019.
What is your favorite game to play and why?
My favorite game to play is 9 ball because every game you play is different from the last. It tests your ability to make shots, play defense, and makes you practice your kicks. I love the ongoing strategy of it and how the game isn’t over until that 9 ball is shot in.
If you could play and player, living or not, who would it be and what format?
I would play Allison Fisher in a 9 ball, race to 9 format.
Do you have a coach and what do they help you with?
My coach right now is Team USA captain, Jeremy Jones. He mostly helps me on my stroke routine, how to make shots easier and improve consistency with certain ball control.
Favorite Player and Why?
My favorite player is Shane Van Boening. I love how dedicated to the game he is, and how he disciplines himself to work on ways to improve his game. He’s not afraid to play defense, but will also go for shots even if they look difficult. I love how confident and composed he is.
This is your last year to play in BEF events. What are you goals for this year?
This year I am hoping to win the BEF 18U girls bracket and qualify to play in the BEF World Championships.
What is a tournament that is on your bucket list to play in?
I would love to play in the Diamond Las Vegas Open.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years I see myself getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. I also see myself playing in pro tournaments on the side which will give me the mental break and the ability to follow my passion for pool.