ACTEBA Newsletter

2016 Eight Ball Nationals - ACT Teams Wrap

margin back to 8-8 prior to the start of the final round before taking the match 15-9. Half way through the round robin group stages, the ACT Opens Team held a record of 2 wins and 5 losses.

The team looked to lift its performance as it faced South Australia for the second time. Both teams fought to a standstill with the score at 8-8 after two rounds. South Australia then won the first 3 frames of the final round to edge ahead of the team before eventually winning the match 13-11. Ian Stanley was outstanding against South Australia, finishing the match with 3 wins from 3. The team took an early 7-3 lead against Tasmania and were looking like favourites to win the match. However, Tasmania rallied back in front of a vocal home crowd to win ACT Opens Team 13-11. After two close losses, the team were never in the match as New South Wales took a commanding The ACT Opens team began its 2016 Nationals 6-2 first round lead before running away with the campaign against a very strong South Australian match to win 16-8. Jakk Phillips chalked up another outfit going down 15-9. Despite the loss, Jakk 3 from 3 but his efforts were not enough to lift the Phillips was outstanding in his first ever game at the team. The team were a chance to upset Western Nationals finishing the match going a perfect 3 wins Australia with the match even at 8-8 going into the from 3. He continued to star in the second match final round. The big match experience of the and along with Matt Harmon chalked up another 3 Western Australian players showed as they won wins from 3 effort to provide the backbone of a 14-10. Queensland took an early 6-2 lead against crushing 15-9 victory over hosts Tasmania. With the team before running out winners 14-10. Jakk confidence and self-belief restored, the team took on Phillips and Matt Harmon went 3 wins from 3 to rivals New South Wales in the following match. Matt inspire the team to a 14-10 victory over Northern Harmon went 3 from 3 in another solid outing but the Territory. The team were never in the match against team went down 15-9. The team started out on fire Victoria who reached a winning score of 13-3 with against Western Australia taking a commanding 6-2 one round remaining. The boys fought back in the lead after the first round before being pegged back to final round to make the final score more respectable 9-7 prior to the final round. Western Australia then at 17-7. won 7 out of the last 8 frames to take the match 14-10. It was a missed opportunity for the boys. The The ACT Opens Team finished its 2016 Nationals team also began strongly against Queensland, campaign in 7th place with a 3 win and 11 loss leading 5-3 at the first break before being overtaken record. Jakk Phillips was the top player for the team by Queensland in the next two rounds to lose the with 27 wins from 42 frames for a 64.28% winning match 14-10. Jason Tanaskovic and Shane Smith record. It is a remarkable achievement considering it both went 3 wins from 3 as the team thrashed bottom is Jakk’s first ever appearance at the Nationals, and placed Northern Territory 16-8. In what seemed to hopefully no the last. be a growing trend, the team started out on fire against eventual champions Victoria taking a 6-2 lead after the first round. Victoria then pulled the Page 2 ACTEBA Newsletter

A huge match for our ladies against Queensland, we managed to rattle one of the top teams so far this tournament. A fight till the end to secure the draw. Feeling pretty pumped we charged into the next match again Northern Territory, but we knew we needed to stay grounded. You can't underestimate the NT girls and we knew they could steal frames from us. Even though we were ahead the whole match we knew we couldn't relax until that last ball was down. We secured a convincing 12-6 win and Lissi (Melissa Chapelli) walked away with a massive 3/3 against some tough players, earning her a new nickname "The Giant "!

Day 4 was the start of the singles tournament. The ladies had their singles matches first up in the day, with Cindy, Ann, Kathy and Kylie progressing through to the second round. With almost half of the tournament completed in 3 ACT Ladies Team and half days, we were ready to take the afternoon off to do (By Ann Moimoi) some fun stuff in the sweet Tassie rain - like catch up on washing... yay!

Well, Thursday 6 October seemed to come around Onto our next match - The Vics. Always a tough match much quicker than most of us had initially thought and against these girls and we kicked off to a good start. They was a very full on day for all involved. We all arrived at were fired up and they brought it back to 6 all going into the the Country Club on a high, possibly more hyperactive third. At that point we just couldn't catch them, and they from adrenaline where we discussed some of the secured the win at 11-7. formalities that arose during the delegates meeting and umpires and rules meeting. We lined up patiently Playing SA for the second time, they thought they were waiting for our photos and mingling with friends from going to get away with another head start, but this time the other states before we went on to the opening tables had turned. Our ladies ran away with a huge 5-1 lead ceremony, where of course we all got to have a giggle leaving SA to play catch ups the whole match. We finished at the mispronunciation of people's names and then it with a win of 10-8 and some extra confidence to carry us to was down to business! the next match against Tassie.

ACT Ladies begun the tournament with an interesting Unfortunately, the tournament and the hectic schedule was match against South Australian. SA ran away with a beginning to take its toll. It was 9pm and we'd been playing 10-2 lead and thought they had us rattled. But we and talking for 12 straight hours. We were trying to proved we were there to fight and brought it back to keep our energy up to fight against Tasmania, but we were 11-7. However, we still played well although it really exhausted. After a gruelling 3 hours, we went to bed after was the nerves that controlled the outcome. midnight with a draw, and some of us were lucky enough to still have voices. We walked away on Thursday night, tired and slightly disappointed with the result however, were determined Back up at 9am the next day to play NSW. We were tired. to get some much deserved rest in order to rejuvenate So tired. We were neck and neck the whole way at 7 all, but and come back and show Tasmania what we are they managed to steal the last few frames finishing on 11-7. made of! And that's exactly what we did, turning our All we wanted to do was sleep. We had a couple of hours to previous night's loss into an 11-7 win over the hosting have a quick nap and then we were back in that pool hall to state team, Tasmania. You can view this match on the play singles, where Kylie progressed to the top 16.

AEBF youtube channel - https:// Day 7 we had back to back matches straight up against WA youtu.be/7jr5wbeN6AQ and then QLD. We pulled off a very convincing win against WA and we were feeling like we had found a groove that Something about ACT vs NSW, it's always "smash or was working for us. Up against QLD we were nipping at be smashed" with us. Unfortunately this time we were their heels the whole way, but their two strongest players the smashees, and came away with a loss of 13-5. We were too strong for us this time, and they pipped us at the were feeling a bit deflated, but picked ourselves up post at 10-8. It was then on to cheer Kylie as she dominated quickly, because we knew these matches were not her singles match to progress to the top 8! going to win themselves! We geared ourselves up for a competitive battle against Western Australia next. Day 8. Our final day. We needed to win our last two We dug deep for each win and so did they. They put matches to secure a place in the finals. Perhaps we had put us in difficult positions and we gave it right back to too much pressure on ourselves, but unfortunately we lost against NT 11-7. This meant that we could no longer make them, and walked away with a hard fought draw. the top 4, so we decided to go into our last match against

the Vics and just have fun. And we almost got 'em! We Day 3 came around so quickly and we were already were up 7-5 going into the last round, but they pulled out all feeling the exhaustion of playing so much pool with a their tricks to secure their 10-8 win. tight schedule. Page 3

Despite all of this year's challenges, the results speak for themselves. Finishing 5th the ACT ladies have proven time ACT Singles Wrap and time again that we are no easy beat. Our players are continuing to grow and our game is always improving. I have a feeling Canberra 2017 is our year ;)

The ACT were well represented in the singles events at the 2016 Eight Ball Nationals with 12 players entering the Open ACT Masters Team Singles, 8 players entering the Ladies Singles and 7 players entering the Masters Singles. The ACT has come close to The ACT Masters Team began its Nationals campaign with winning the Open Singles title on a few previous occasions a 9-6 loss against South Australia and 10-5 loss against with Chris Stead finishing runner-up in 1996. Steve Woods Tasmania. With an early 0-2 record and in desperate need was runner-up in 2006 and 2007 while representing the of a win, the team rallied to defeat neighbours New South ACT, and again in 2015 while representing New South Wales 9-6. Tied at 5-5 heading into the last round, the team Wales (but playing in ACTEBA as a member of the HGC let one slip as Western Australia edged ahead for the 9-6 Hammerheads). Cindy Blackmore was runner-up in the win. Richard Yonan led the way with a 3 wins from 3 effort Ladies Singles in 1994. Ian ‘Mongrel’ Will was the to lift the team to a 10-5 hammering of Queensland. Peter runner-up in the Masters Singles in 2011. Smith and Sid Scott both went 3 wins from 3 as the team delivered another 10-5 score line to defeat the Northern In the Open Singles event, Jason Tanaskovic, Matt Harmon Territory. The team suffered a heavy 12-3 defeat to Victoria and Mick Norton were the three players who made it in the final match of the first round of the group stages. At through to the last 16. Matt Harmon went down 7-6 in a the half-way mark of the event, the ACT Masters Team were 3 wins from its 7 matches. tight contest to Jeremy McGuire from Tasmania. Jeremy had an outstanding tournament and would eventually be The team got off to a flying start in the second half of round selected for the Australian Men’s Team. Mick Norton also robin matches by defeating South Australia 9-6. Peter Smith went down 7-5 in a tight contest to Tom Hall-Mcleod of and Ian ‘Mongrel’ Will both chalked up a 3 wins from 3 in the South Australia. Jason Tanaskovic had an outstanding match. A poor start in the next match saw the team go down singles tournament defeating close friend Jakk Phillips 5-2 10-5 to eventual champions Tasmania. Needing to win to make the last 16. Jason would go on to beat Lui Iarossi every remaining match to make the top 4, the team from South Australia 7-6 to enter his first ever Quarter rebounded strongly by hammering New South Wales 10-5. Finals where he faced two time champion Justin Sajich Peter Smith playing some inspiring pool to notch up another (2004, 2009). Justin proved too good for Jason in the end 3 wins from 3. The team then trailed Western Australia 7-5 winning 8-2. But it was a great effort by Jason to progress before Ian ‘Mongrel’ Will, Phil Morton, and Richard Yonan so far. delivered 3 consecutive clutch victories to clinch the match 8 -7. The team fought bravely against Queensland taking a In the Ladies Singles event, Kylie Power was the lone ACT 7-5 lead but could not hold on losing 8-7 in a heart breaker. representative at the last 16. She would defeat Nicole The Northern Territory match was a tense affair with the Fielding from Queensland 5-4 by playing some terrific pool teams tied at 5-5 going into the final round. They played to make the Quarter Finals. There she faced Isabella some clutch pool as Richard Yonan once again anchored DiGorgio of Victoria and unfortunately went down 6-2. the team to a 8-7 victory. With one match remaining, the Isabella would go on to be selected in the Australian Ladies ACT Masters Team sat in 4th place but needed to win its Team. But what a great effort by Kylie. final game against Victoria to remain in finals contention. The team came up just short going down to Victoria 9-6. In the Masters Singles event, Ian ‘Mongrel’ Will and Rolf Bandte both progressed through to the last 16. Mongrel The ACT Masters Team finished the 2016 Nationals in 6th forfeited his Last 32 Open Singles match against Luke place with a 7 win and 7 loss record. Mongrel was Foster to take on John Russell from Victoria in the Masters outstanding all tournament winning 26 of the 42 frames he event. Mongrel unfortunately went down 5-3. Rolf Bandte played for a 61.90% winning record. He would be selected also went out after losing to Darren Waite of Victoria 5-1. for the Masters Team to represent Australia at the 2017 Eight Ball World Championships. So well done Mongrel. Page 4 ACTEBA Newsletter

Eight Ball Nationals - Australian Champions

The 2016 Eight Ball Nationals took place in Launceston, After the 3rd round, TAS improved to a 9-6 lead before Tasmania from 6 to 15 October 2016. After a gruelling eventually claiming the match 11-9. Eric Matthews schedule, with games played over a 12 hour span each day, defeated Vic Marcello to deliver Tasmania its first ever the finals of all events took place on Friday, Masters Team title. The winning TAS team included Wayne 14 October 2016. Stubbs, Greg Lawrie, Bruce Lockley, Eric Matthews, Peter

Kirkcaldy, and Terry Adams. The singles final for the Opens, Ladies and Masters took place simultaneously at 1.30pm and was live streamed on YouTube through the Australian Eight Ball Federation The Ladies Team Final saw VIC take on WA. VIC has won (AEBF) channel. The live feed was watched by roughly 220 the title 6 times while WA has won the title 3 times. It was a viewers. Ben Foster, a youngster from Western Australia highly tactical and strategic match with WA holding a narrow (WA) looked to dethrone current champion Michael Scerri 7-5 lead at half time. VIC dominated the 3rd round winning from Victoria (VIC) in the Open Singles Final. Michael was 5 of the 6 frames to snatch the lead 10-8 heading into the looking to become the first person to win the event three final round. Despite a brave fight back by the WA ladies, consecutive years having also won it in 2014 and 2015. But VIC won the final 13-10 when Caroline Ruscitti defeated it was Ben Foster who flew out of blocks with some Sue Bassanich. The winning VIC team featured Isabella remarkable play to take a 4-0 lead. Michael Scerri then DiGiorgio, Kolbe Poole, Caroline Ruscitti, Karen Winter, composed himself and played a few steady frames to level Rhiannon Bolton, Lyndal Ellement, and Emma Babutta. the scores at 4-4 before taking a slim 5-4 lead. From that Kolbe Poole and Rhiannon Bolton capped off a wonderful moment, Ben Foster played outstanding pool and hardly missed a shot. Michael Scerri on the other hand made 2016 campaign having also been part of the winning some uncharacteristic mistakes including jawing some Australian Ladies Team that captured the 2016 World shots. This allowed Ben Foster to take the lead and he held Championship title. his nerve in the final few frames to win the match 10-7. It was Ben’s first ever Open Singles Title. The final event of the final day was the Open Teams Final which was played at 8.30pm. 2015 defending champions, VIC took on fierce rivals South Australia (SA). VIC has won the title on 8 previous occasions while SA has won the title a record 15 times. SA boasted a strong line-up that included three times Australian Singles Champion in Alec Evreniadis (1994, 1997, 2002), the 2010 Australian Singles Champion in Brenton Collier, and Adam Andretzki from the 2016 Australian Eight Ball World Championship winning team. VIC featured two times Australian Singles Champion in Michael Scerri (2014, 2015), who was also part of the 2016 World Championship side, and the 2016 World Eight Ball Juniors Champion in Matt Curwood.

It was an epic final with SA racing out to an early 4-0 lead. But VIC fought back to level the scores at 4-4 after the first round. It was an evenly contested second round with SA and VIC battling to a standstill. The score at half-time was 9 In the Ladies Singles Final, Sharron Brown from New South -7 slightly in VIC’s favour. During the half-time break, Wales (NSW) took on Melanie Sanders from the Northern veteran Jack Russell delivered an inspirational speech to Territory (NT). Sharron was the runner-up in the event in the Victorian boys which fired them up. Meanwhile, SA 2012. Her finals experience showed as she took a walked back into the pool hall looking subdued after the half commanding lead early and held on to win 8-5. The -time break. The difference in body language between the Masters Singles Final saw Steve Gray (VIC) take on John two teams was telling as VIC crushed SA 7 wins to 1 in the Russell (VIC). It was a repeat of the 2014 final and once 3rd round to hold a decisive 16-8 lead going into the last again, Steve was too good winning 8-4. It is Steve’s third round. SA fought back gallantly at the start of the fourth title having also won it previously in 2013 and 2014. round winning the first four frames in a row to storm back to 16-12. But Nathan Harris managed to hold his nerve to The Ladies and Masters teams finals commenced at defeat the usually cool Adam Andretzki to deliver a 17-12 4.30pm. In the Masters Team Final, home team Tasmania win for Victoria. It is their 9th title overall. (TAS) took on WA. TAS had never previously won the title and were looking to take advantage of playing at home and Please visit the AEBF website at www.aebf.com.au for the having the best available players in the team. WA on the complete results and statistics from the 2016 Nationals. other hand were champions in 2012 and 2013. In a highly Archive footage of select matches can be viewed from the AEBF channel on YouTube. In 2017, the Nationals come to attacking and entertaining match, TAS edged ahead of WA Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory. 3-2 at the end of the first round. They would hold the 2 frame lead at half time with the score being 6-4. Page 5

2016-17 Australian Teams

The 2016 Eight Ball Nationals concluded on Saturday,  Mickey McPerson (VIC) – Team Manager; and 15 October 2016 with a gala dinner for presentations. This  Lyndall Morphett (SA) – 2016 Team. included the announcement of the Opens, Ladies, and Masters selected to represent Australia for an eight ball tour The players selected to the Masters Team squad includes: later in 2016 and at the 2017 Eight Ball World Championships. The final team to represent Australia in  Michael Delahunty (SA) - Captain; 2016 and 2017 will depend on the availability of the  Wayne Stubbs – Vice Captain, 2016 Player of the selected players. Carnival;  Steve Gray (VIC), 2016 Masters Singles Champion; The players selected to the Opens Team squad includes:  Steve Brett (WA);  Alec Evreniadis (SA), Captain;  Cranne Wrigley (VIC);  Peter Butterworth (VIC) – Vice Captain  Ian ‘Mongrel’ Will (ACT); and  Michael Scerri (VIC), 2016 Player of the Carnival;  Joanne Brown – Team Manager.  Ben Foster (WA), 2016 Opens Singles Champion;  John ‘Rusty’ Wheeler (NSW); The players selected to the Under 23s Team squad includes:  Dax Wasley (WA);  Luke Foster (WA) – Captain;  Justin Sajich (NSW);  Ben Foster (WA);  Nathan Nemes (SA);  Cale Barrett (TAS); and  Luke Foster (WA);  Joanne Brown – Team Manager.  Brent Read (NSW);  Travis Crawley (NSW); and  Jeremy McGuire (TAS).

The players selected to the Ladies Team squad includes:  Sue Bassanich (WA) – Captain, 2016 Player of the Carnival;  Sharron Brown (NSW), 2016 Ladies Singles Champion;  Kirsty Henville (WA);  Kolbe Poole (VIC);  Taylor Meyer (SA);  Stacey Tsiakas (NSW);  Rebecca Smith (WA);  Isabella DiGiorgio (VIC);  Sue McCord (NSW); Page 6 ACTEBA Newsletter

The Money Man - Mick Norton

5. You regularly play in major pool competitions, pub competitions and money games. Can you provide me with an estimate of how much money you’ve won because of pool over the years and what was the largest prize pool/money you have won?

Over the 18 or so years of playing, I would have won in excess of $30,000. Back in the day when there were 5 pool comps a week, I pulled in $4,500 in an 8 week period. My largest prize has been $1,500 and 3 or 4 times I have won a $1,000 first prize in a competition. Most I've won playing in a money match was $1,000 in total. I’ve played in 18 money matches in the last 18 months winning 15 of them, each match being between $100 and $500.

6. What would you rate as your greatest achievements in eight ball?

Of course my greatest achievement is playing for my Australian Opens Team Selections: 2015 country last year. Also the privilege of breaking the balls at ACT Opens Team Selections: 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, the Australian Juniors Opening Ceremony last year! 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016 7. You play at a pretty elite level, what advice would you ACT 9 Ball Champion: 2012 give to a new player to improve their game? 1st Division Singles Champion: 2012 Current Rank: 6th Any advice I would give a new player is to keep your 2017 Summer Season Team: HGC Avengers (1st composure, concentration and confidence. I call them the 3

Division) C's but never give up no matter what.

1. Before we get to the eight ball stuff, can you tell me a 8. Who is the toughest eight ball player you’ve ever had bit about yourself like what you do outside of pool for to play against? enjoyment? Any interesting hobbies? Toughest player I've played would be Benny Nunan and in I like to travel and spend time with my family. I like to watch ACT it would have to be Matt Harmon. my kids playing sports and watching the NRL as we all go for the Bulldogs :) 9. Who is your biggest scalp in eight ball and how did you manage to beat this person? 2. What is your favourite band and have you seen them live in concert? Over the years I've played all the top players in Australia

and have beaten them all and have also been beaten by Cold Chisel is my favourite band and I've seen them twice them. But one match that stands out was in the Gold Coast and also Jimmy Barnes on numerous occasions. Open beating Brent Read in the Semi Final 8-7 after being 4-0 down. It was livestreamed and I had my 3 kids there 3. Are you able to tell me something unique or unusual watching. It was a great match about yourself that members of the association might want to know? 10. If your life depended on a game of eight ball, who would you chose as your doubles partner and why? People may not know but I was born in the country and I've owned over 200 sheep a few years back breeding lambs as I would choose Michael Scerri because of his great a hobby farmer. composure in high pressure situations.

4. Now onto the eight ball stuff, how long have you 11. You’ve played for several teams in the association been playing the game and why do you enjoy playing? now, can you tell me which team do you enjoy most playing for and why? I started playing when I was 24 in 1998. I didn't know much about pool then so I got some training from an ex ACT In ACT teams my first ever team. I played in Legend number one player in Chris Stead. He helped me improve Creators. Was a great bunch of blokes to play with and my game and taught me the tactics of eight ball and I made brings great memories but there's a case with all the teams my first state team that year. Then I was hooked on eight I've played with. ball. Page 7

12. What’s the weirdest thing that has happened to you Current Team: Enzo D’Ambrosio (Captain), Fabio while playing eight ball? D’Ambrosio, Raffaele D’Ambrosio, John Cameron, Marcus Divito, Mark Abery, Paul Davies, Richard Siliwinski, Sam One of the weirdest things was having to play the State Bryant, Scott Clarke Team trials with a broken collarbone in a sling, LOL. I still made the team too. 5th Division Championship: 2016 (Winter)

13. When you’re practicing, what kind of drills do you 1. Can you provide me with a brief history of the do? Shooters team? How it was formed and how many years you have been in the league? Practising I usually do line ups, play the top players for money, and go to major tournaments to keep my standard Well my first season playing eight ball was with a different up. side. I loved the game and I told some of my family members who suggested we should put in a side together. 14. How did you rate your own performance and the I then asked friends whom I play with to join us to Opens Team’s performance at the recent Nationals? make a team. We've only played two seasons so far.

This year my performance was my worst ever at the 2. How do you rate your team’s performance to date, National level and yet one of my best in the singles. Just especially prior to winning the 5th Division title? missing out on a quarter final spot in the Open Singles. Of 3 new players, all played great for their first nationals and Excellent, no other word. Two seasons, two Grand Finals. the team did really well against all the other States 3. The Shooters put together an impressive line-up to 15. What improvements do you think needs to be made compete in 5th Division with many former 3rd Division to ACTEBA before the 2017 Nationals in Canberra to players and Richard Siliwinksi, a former ACT State enable all ACT teams to compete for a title? Player representative, at its core. Did you expect to win 5th Division before the season began with such a If we can get our top 9 players trying out and going it would strong team? really improve our chances I think. No not at all. Even with strong players, you can’t 16. What are your eight ball goals heading in 2017? Are underestimate your competition. 5th Division maybe all the you confident you’ll achieve them? way down the bottom as some say but some of these sides have come from much higher divisions and trust me My 2017 goals are to make the ACT State team as it's held its not a walk in the park. in the ACT. Also I want to help my new team the HGC Avengers make the finals next year and I'm feeling very 4. The Shooters went into the Grand Final missing 3 confident for the new year of pool. key players, including Richard Siliwkinski who won 30 of 34 frames for 88.23%. How did you rate your chances going into the Grand Final and did you expect to win prior to the start of the match?

Capital Club I went into grand final thinking no hope in hell, but John Cameron walked through the doors with a great attitude Shooters - and kept telling us we could beat them. It boosted our moral and we played the best we could on the night Shooting Stars against a very strong team.

5. Going into extra frames is always nerve racking. Did you have a plan or strategy in place to ensure your team would win?

Our strategy was simple, go into the first three frames with our strongest players and make sure we won. I don't think we were that nervous because we had played a tie breaker the week before and I also had played one in my first season with the Buffalos.

6. Are you able to provide me with a recount of who played and won the final 15th frame and how that match went?

That would be my other ‘gun’ Mr Paul Davies. He is a great player and I had no doubt that he would win. Unfortunately due to work Paul wasn't able to play many frames in the season, but I do believe he only lost 1 frame out 13 with a 92.30% win rate.

Page 8 ACTEBA Newsletter

He played Barry Floyd in that frame. Barry made an have to be my brother Fabio D'Ambrosio who actually was error which gave Paul two visits. He was able to pot one of the reasons we made the grand final. He had a great the remaining balls and win the Grand Final. come back game under pressure against Michael Di Munno.

7. How do you rate your team’s chances of Unfortunately Richard will be leaving us and moving into 2nd winning the upcoming Champions of Champions Division with the DV8's. He is a great friend and I wish him tournament with +10 handicap advantage? good luck.

I think we will give it a good go, but like all the other 12. Who was the team’s most improved player and why? champions they are all great sides and no walk overs. It will give us good experience for the next few I don't think there isn't a player who hasn't improved. Scott seasons. Clarke improved over the season, Mark Abery won the tie breaker for us against Neil and Bob and put us into the 8. I noticed that your team features several former grand final. My father Rafa has improved over the last two Uni Pub Bombers players in John Cameron, Mark seasons and I do believe he is one of the oldest players in Abery, Paul Davies and Richard Siliwinski. John the whole of ACTEBA at 70. Richard, Fabio, Paul, John and has already announced publically that he will be myself have all played very well throughout the season but I reforming the Bombers to compete in the 2017 must say that Marcus Divito may have not played the best Summer Season, how does this impact on the through the season as his stats would suggest but he Shooters team? Will the Shooters still be around improved immensely in the grand final and we wouldn't be for next season? the champions without him. He kept calm and cool in every game and played very tactically winning 3 from 4. Definitely Yeah, it was quite funny that four of our players came most improved on the night and man of the match. from another side but that was due to me being good friends with Richard who brought John and Mark on 13. Who would be the team’s most valuable player? board. John, Richard, Fabio, Scott, Rafa and I have all player snooker/billiards together over the years. I think Richard would be our best player, but we won it as a team so everyone is valuable. Those who are leaving us will I brought Paul into the team not knowing that he had be missed. also played with the lads. 14. Every team has a clown, who is the funniest guy on Yes it is true that a few players have left to reform the the Shooters team at the moment? Bombers but the Shooters will keep going. At this stage we don't know if we will continue playing from John Cameron, He is the funny one for sure. On grand final the Golf Club or be moving to Calwell with Mick and night it wasn't till I got home that I noticed he had written the lads. I'm waiting to hear from some old/new Smell Fish on the score card instead of Hell Fish. He also players for next season but we will definitely be in Division 4.

9. By winning 5th Division, the Shooters will be promoted to play in 4th Division. How do you Rony Sood - A Champion think your team will go in the 2017 Summer Season? Any predictions?

If everything goes to plan, and I'm able to get the players I want then I do believe that the Shooters will be a very good side. I can't predict the future but we will give it our best and have fun at the same time.

10. Have you added any new team members following the Grand Final win to strengthen your team for next season?

At this stage no, but three/four new players is on the cards. These players will be from my snooker roots so I think they will adapt quickly.

11. Okay, now onto the players on the team – which player do you think plays the best under pressure? ACT Opens Team Selections: 2005 (Under 21 Player), 2008, 2009, 2011 We had two players that were great under pressure. ACT Opens Singles Champion: 2011 One of cause would have to be Richard Sliwinski. Previous Team: Page Tavern Toros (1st Division) Great player with a great tactical game and just outright awesome player and great guy. The other would Page 9

Questions: 5. Who has been your biggest scalp in eight ball and how did you beat this person? 1. In 2011, I watched you defeat Anthony Chia to win your first ACT Open Singles title. To some in the I’ve beaten a number of great players, and also lost to a association it was considered a genuine upset. Can number of great (and not so great!) players. This is the you share with me your memories of that day and what great thing about eight ball, anyone can beat anyone on the it felt like to win? day. I feel the best win I had was a big money comp at Pendos quite early on when I’d only been playing eight ball Anthony Chia’s been one of the most consistent players in for a year or so. I was relatively unknown in the eight ball ACT for a long time and is able to play well under pressure community and won the comp, beating quite a few top which makes him an extremely tough opponent. However, players including Steve Woods in the final. I feel this comp I’ve always maintained that you need to play the table, not was crucial in my development as it gave me the confidence the player. I cannot comment how the match-up was quite early on to know that I can compete with the top perceived by others, but in my mind I was very confident of players and to back myself. winning which I think was reflected in the 9-4 final score line. If you can’t back yourself then why should anyone 6. If your life depended on a game of eight ball, who else? At the time my game was quite consistent. I was would you pick as a doubles partner and why? playing with confidence and I was also ranked #1 in ACTEBA. Michael Hazilias. I played doubles with Hazza for quite a few years and we developed a good understand of each My memories of the day are somewhat hazy now as it was other’s games. Whoever was breaking well on the day 5 years ago, but I do recall that I got off to a scratchy start would take the majority of the breaks, whoever felt confident in the top 4 playoff, doing just enough to win my first match about the frame situation would take the first shot. We were and then losing my second match. I started to hit form and different players with different strengths and weaknesses gain confidence in my third match which was the perfect and allowed each other to play our own games, and only lead in to the State final where I took most of my chances consulted each other for advice when essential. We played and was happy with the way I played. as a team which was the main reason for our success.

2. Apart from the singles title, what would you rate as 7. Are you still playing in any pool competitions or any your greatest moments and achievements in eight away from ACTEBA? ball? No. I’ve picked up a cue twice in the last 3 years, and that Playing in front of family and friends at the 2009 Nationals was after quite a few beers! in Canberra was a pretty good feeling. Attaining the #1 ranking in ACTEBA was also quite satisfying. 8. As a former ACT Open Singles Champion, what advice would you give to beginners to improve their 3. When did you stop playing eight ball and what was game? the main reason behind it? Play Snooker, you’ll learn a great deal and improve your I stopped playing in 2013 and there were a few reasons cueing considerably. Always try and play better players behind it. The main reason was that I realised I’d lost a bit than you. Play comps and money matches, both will teach of interest and the hunger to do well. After winning the you how to play under pressure which is a quality that State Title in 2011, I didn’t put in any effort or preparation separates the good from the great. for the Nationals that year and it showed both in the way I played and the results. I felt it was unfair on my teammates Play the table not the player. Don’t make excuses. Jags / to not be putting in 100% and decided at the time that rolls are part of the game, and there’s no point whinging would be my last Nationals. I played on in the Wednesday about them. Just learn everything you can from each frame night season comp more for the social aspect, however it in order to progress your game. Confidence is everything, if was about the same time some good mates who I started you’re not confident in most cases you’ve lost before you’ve playing eight ball with were also giving the game away, so I begun. Enjoy it and don’t take it too seriously :D decided to follow suit. 9. If you could change something about ACTEBA to 4. If you had to name a person, who was the toughest make it better, what would it be? player that you’ve had to play against? In order for ACT to compete at Nationals, players need to The most skilled player would have to be Mick Hill, however play week in week out on high quality net pocket tables. I’m I only played him in a one frame situation. His cue ball not sure what the solution is to this, but until this happens control is next level and something to marvel at. unfortunately ACT will be at a considerable disadvantage when competing at Nationals. In a race it would be Mark Robertson, who was red hot when I ran into him in an Albury comp. I felt I was ahead in Since I’ve stopped playing the personnel in the committee every frame and didn’t leave him much, however he have changed considerably which has lead to a more managed to pull off incredible run-outs from virtually noth- proactive committee in terms of the development of eight ing in every frame to beat me 3-0. He played amazing and ball in ACT which is great. Increased social media was just way too good on the day. presence coupled with live scoring / streaming of matches is definitely a step in the right direction. Page 10 ACTEBA Newsletter

10. Would you ever consider returning to ACTEBA Presentation Night – 3 December 2016 at a future stage? The ACTEBA Presentation Night will take place from 7.00pm I’m enjoying playing a fair bit of Cricket and also on 3 December 2016 at the Labor Club Belconnen. The cost Squash right now. When age / fitness start will be $20.00 for members and $49.50 for non-members. It compromising these sports I’m sure I’ll venture back will be a fun night for all. Further information about the into the world of cues ports and take up both snooker presentation night is now available on the ACTEBA website and eight ball again. Never say never! at www.acteba.com.au. Those looking to attend the 11. Did you have a favourite venue that you enjoy Presentation Night may also contact Ann Moimoi on playing pool at? 0421 204 355 or via email at [email protected].

Not really to be honest. Everywhere we played had cold beer and most places had some decent food to get by on the night! Playing at venues with higher Colin Gamble - Worth quality tables was greatly appreciated of course. the Gamble Continued 12. What is the strangest thing that happened to you on a pool table?

I once potted the Black ball off the break, 3 frames in a row.

Upcoming ACTEBA Events

Champions of Champions – 26 October 2016

In the opening round of the Champions of Champions tournament, the Embalmers defeated the Crackpots 1. If your life depended on a game of eight ball, who 19 to 10. Just the Tip managed to defeat the ACT would you chose as your doubles partner and why? Juniors team 15 to 10. The Dots defeated the Screamers 18 to 9. Finally the KAOS defeated the I will take the easy way out on this one and say Mick Hill. I Rangers 21-16. Motley Cues and Shooters had the think it would be my best chance of survival based on him bye. being consistently one of the best in the world.

Round 2 of the Champions of Champions tournament 2. You’ve been a journeyman in eight ball having played will take place on 2 November 2016 with the Motley on several teams across several Divisions. Can you tell Cues taking on Just the Tip and the Shooters taking me which team has been your favourite team to play on on the KAOS. The Dots and Embalmers have a bye. and why?

Divisional Championships – 5 November 2016 I have definitely played in a few teams over the years. Motleys, Stickmen, Toros, and Hammerheads, just to name The Divisional Championships are scheduled to take a few. I would have to say that the Stickmen would have place on Saturday, 5 November 2016. Full details of been the team I'm most fond off just because it was set up the players selected to participate is available on the with a bunch of mates and we managed to get a few 1st ACTEBA website at www.acteba.com.au. Division titles while having fun along the way. But I have Congratulations to all of the players who made the enjoyed playing with every team I've been a part of so far. Divisional Championships and good luck. Also a big thank you for the Hermione German Club, The 3. What has been your proudest moment in eight ball? Basement, Kaleen Bar & Bistro, and Chisholm Tavern for hosting the event. These questions are tough geez! I would have to say the state title that Anthony and I won in 2008 for doubles. There

are so many great players here in the ACT and anytime you Adjudicators Competition – 19 November 2016 can be the last team standing in the state trials in any event

is one to remember. The Adjudicators Competition organised by Matt Harmon is scheduled to take place on 19 November 4. What’s the weirdest thing that has happened to you 2016. Only those who volunteered to be an while playing eight ball? adjudicator during any sanctioned ACTEBA competition during 2016 are eligible to participate in Two things come to mind. 1. I have had a player sink 8 balls the competition. A big thank you to everyone who off the break against me. 2. I was playing on a table once adjudicated during the year. Further details about the when a ball from another table landed on my table and competition will be provided close to date. knocked all of the balls on our table around. Page 11

 Lorraine Burns, Condor, New Player Available Eight Ball  Matt Dunn, Condor, Previously Burns Club Venues Nevilles (3rd Div)  Ruth Stone, North Lyneham, Previously HCG Shooters (5th Div), Has played 1st to 5th Div

Additional Pub Pool Competitions in the ACT Region

The following venues are interested in hosting a new or an additional eight ball team for the upcoming 2017 Summer Season. If you are interested in playing at these venues please send an email to Matt Harmon at [email protected]. He will facilitate discussions with the managers and owners and help your team get set up at the venues. This will ensure a coordinated approach for teams seeking a venue. It will also avoid any possible conflicts between teams, particularly when two or more teams are vying to play at the same venue.

Capital Golf Club Corner of Jerrabomberra Avenue and Hindmarsh Drive,

Narrabundah

The October newsletter contains a list of known pool Civic Pub competitions in the ACT region. One additional pool 8 Londsdale Street, Braddon competition has been operating since that time. To be safe, call the venue or the Tournament Director listed to Mooseheads Pub and Nightclub confirm the details of the competition if you’re interested in 105 London Circuit, Canberra playing in a pub pool competition before turning up on the night. If there are any additional pool competitions, please Uni Pub contact Long Dang at [email protected]. A full 17 London Circuit, Canberra complete list of all the pool competitions available may also be obtained by emailing Long.

Free Agents List Thursday

HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB The list of players below are currently without an eight ball team and would like to join a team. Contact players through the ACTEBA Facebook group or Matt Harmon at Time: 6.30pm (for 7pm start) [email protected] to get in touch: Format: Individual/Singles – King of the Mountain Rules: Eight Ball Entry: $20  Alex Irons, Chisholm, New Player Prize: Money  Cate Gaffey, Narrabundah, New Player Contact: Joshua King  Frank Perkovic, Turner, Previously Uni Pub Details: The pool competition adopts a ‘King of the Bombers (3rd Div) Mountain’ format where the winner stays on the table and  Gary Sargeant, Braddon, New Player the losers line up in to play the winner. Depending on the number of players involved, multiple  Glenn Wickett, Evatt, Previously Kaleen 8ballers tables may be used. To win each individual player must (3rd Div), Seeking 3rd or 4th Division Team race to 15 wins. It is a handicap tournament with less  Hayden Young, Giralang, Previously Basement experienced players receiving handicap as determined by Budgie Smugglers (3rd Div) the Tournament Director.  Jamie Clayton, Kambah, New Player Address: 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah  Kaaron Keily, Ngunnawal, Previously Burns Club ACT 2604 Schroomptons (1st Div), Not interested in 1st Div or Phone: (02) 6295 9853 2nd Div Page 12 ACTEBA Newsletter

Eight Ball Team Competitions in the ACT

Monday Social Comp 8 Ball 3s - The New ACTEBA Weekly

Frontier Comp

Day: Monday Day: Tuesday Day: Wednesday Time: 8pm Time: 7.30pm Time: 8pm Format: Singles and Doubles Format: Singles Matches Format: Singles Matches Matches Rules: Eight Ball Rules: Eight Ball Rules: Eight Ball Entry: $30 per player Entry: $60 per player Entry: $35 per player

Details: Get together with friends Details: The ACTEBA Details: Enter as Individuals. and form a team of at least 3 competition is the major pool Teams of 4 are then randomly players or register as an individual competition in Canberra. Currently, allocated by the Tournament player and be organised into a team the competition consists of teams Director. Competition takes place by the Tournament Director. Only 1 participating in 5 Divisions, 1st to as a round robin with each team player ranked in the top 20 in the 5th Division. Teams move between playing each other at least once. ACTEBA Open Rankings are Divisions through promotion by Top 4 make the finals series to allowed per team. Minimum players winning a Division or are relegated compete for the money jackpot. on a team is 3 and the maximum by being the bottom team in a Money prizes are awarded to 1st number of players on a team is 4. Division. New teams generally start and 2nd place. in 5th Division.

Competition takes place as a round Competition Nights: 18 frames, robin with each team playing each People wishing to participate in the 16 singles matches and 2 doubles other at least once. At the end of ACTEBA competition must either matches. the round robin of matches a finals join an existing team or get together

series will take place to determine with at least 6 friends to form a new Duration: Maximum players is 48. the winner. Money prizes are team. New teams must also find a Maximum teams is 12. Maximum awarded to 1st and 2nd place. venue with at least two tables to length of the competition is 11 Individual trophies are also play home matches from. weeks, plus 2 weeks of finals. presented to the winning team.

There are two seasons in the Level of Ability: Players of all Competition Nights: 18 frames, ACTEBA competition, Summer and level and playing ability are 18 singles matches Winter. Each season lasts for 14 welcome to join the competition. weeks with the top 4 teams making

Duration: Maximum of 11 teams. the finals series. The winner and Venue: Harmonie German Club Maximum length of competition is runner up of each Division receive Address: 49 Jerrabomberra Ave, 10 weeks plus 2 weeks of finals. individual trophies. The perpetual Narrabundah ACT 2604 trophy for each Division is also Phone: (02) 6295 9853 Level of Ability: The competition awarded to the winning team.

caters more towards introducing Tournament Director: beginners to eight ball. But players Competition Nights: 24 frames, Brent Hampton – 0404 198 878 of all levels are welcome to 24 singles matches. participate. Facebook Group: Type in Duration: 14 weeks plus 3 weeks ‘Monday Night Social Comp’ in the Venue: Harmonie German Club of finals each season. search bar of your Facebook Address: 49 Jerrabomberra Ave, account to join the group Narrabundah ACT 2604 Venue: Various Pubs and Clubs Phone: (02) 6295 9853 in the ACT Region

Tournament Director: Tournament Director: Long Dang – 0419 129 768 Matt Harmon – 0413 844 154

Facebook Group: Type in ‘8ball Facebook Group: Type in 3s Competition’ in the search bar of ‘ACTEBA –ACT 8 Ball’ in the search your Facebook account to join the bar of your Facebook account to group join the group

Website: www.acteba.com.au

Page 13

Pool Movies (by Long Dang)

Bored for the weekend and have nothing to do? Here are some highly recommended pool movies that you can search for and watch on the internet. Only be sure you don’t breach any copyright and watch them through official sources. Please note also that as many of these are American films you’ll need to understand the rules of American 8 ball, 9 ball, and to fully appreciate the movies.

Stickmen The Hustler

The Hustler is the 1961 adaptation of Walter Tevis’s Stickmen is a 2001 film produced in New Zealand. It is novel of the same name. It stars Paul Newman, Jackie directed by Hamish Rothwell and stars Robbie Gleason, Piper Laurie, and George C. Scott. The story Magasiva and Scott Wills. Stickmen is fully entertaining is based on the fictional character of ‘Fast’ Eddie and focuses on a group of friends who play pool. The Felson, played Paul Newman, a small time pool hustler way they play pool often reflects their approach to life. looking to make major money by organising many high They enter a pool tournament organised by a Greek stakes money games. crime lord with each hoping to claim the major prize. Stickmen is the film that inspired the formation of the Color of Money Stickmen team in 1st Division many seasons ago.

Poolhall Junkies

The Color of Money is a 1986 pool classic film and sequel to ‘The Hustler’. The film stars Paul Newman and Tom Cruise, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Helen Poolhall Junkies is a 2002 film starring Mars Callahan, Shaver, and John Turturro. The story follows ‘Fast’ Alison Eastwood, Michael Rosenbaum, Rick Schroder, Eddie Felson, played by Paul Newman, who is a former Rod Steiger, Chazz Palminteri, and Christopher Walken. pool hustler and money staker. One night he meets It’s a story about a pool hustler named Johnny who has Vincent Lauria, played by Tom Cruise, who is a young given up the game but is actively pursued by Joe, his and upcoming pool player. Eddie convinces Vincent former mentor and money staker, to continue hustling. and his girlfriend to travel with him to pool halls to hustle When Joe makes life difficult for Johnny and his friends, for money while they travel to a major tournament at Johnny finally returns to the pool hall. He ends up Atlantic City. The character of Eddie Felson is from the agreeing to a big stakes 9 ball money match to get him novel ‘The Hustler’ by Walter Tevis. The character of and his friends out of trouble. Vicent Lauria is actually based on the young life of legendary American pool player Mike Sigel. Page 14 ACTEBA Newsletter

Shooting Gallery ACTEBA on the Internet

Visit our website at – www.acteba.com.au

Join our Facebook Group by typing ‘ACTEBA –ACT 8 Ball’ in the search bar of your Facebook account

Editor Thanks

Shooting Gallery is a 2005 film directed by Keoni A big thank you to Mick Norton, Rony Sood, and Enzo Waxman starring Freddie Prinze Jr and Ing Rhames. The story follows Jericho who is a smart kid with great D’Ambrosio for participating in the Q&A segments. Hope pool talent. He becomes involved in a battle of wits they were fun reading for members. during a 9 ball competition involving two legendary pool hustlers. October Edition Turn the River Corrections

The ACT Masters Team’s best result was actually in 2014 finishing 4th in Darwin and not 5th in 2009 as I mentioned in the newsletter.

Proud Supporters of ACTEBA

OnCue Sports

Turn the River is a 2007 film starring Famke Janssen. The film follows the story of Kaily Sullivan who is a single mum down in the dumps and living out of a pool hall. The pool table is literately her bed. Kaily is divorced and does not have custody of her child. A handy poker and pool player, she sets up a high stakes money game of 9 ball in an attempt to raise enough money to get herself and her young son to a new life in Contact Ian ‘Mongrel’ Will on 0416 136 230 or Canada. Will she succeed? 0457 366 296.

On Cue Sports delivers, installs, and provides a range of Feedback/Comments tables and services, including the reclothing and relocation of tables. A range of pool cues and accessories can also be purchased from On Cue Sports. Even get your tip redone.

Studio 3sixT

Studio 3sixT offers design and printing packages for post- Comments and feedback on this publication should be ers, flyers and sporting uniforms. Studio 3sixT has de- directed to the editor, Mr Long Dang (pictured) who can signed and printed our Nationals shirts for 2015 and 2016 be contacted on 0419 129 768 or via email at and can help you with some shirts for your eight ball team. [email protected].

Page 15

THANK YOU TO ALL THE EIGHT BALL VENUES PROUDLY SUPPORTING TEAMS IN ACTEBA

BELCONNEN LABOR CLUB KAMBAH INN Chandler Street, Belconnen ACT 2616 19 Primmer Circuit, Kambah ACT 2902 Phone: (02) 6251 5522 Phone: (02) 6231 7674

BUFFALO BISTRO OJO CAFÉ & BAR 48 Yass Road, Queanbeyan NSW 2620 The courtyard at Tuggeranong Hyperdome, Phone: (02) 6297 4207 Athlone Drive, Greenway ACT 2900 Phone: (02) 6293 2029 BURNS CLUB 8 Kett Street, Kambah ACT 2902 PJ O’REILLY’S TUGGERANONG Phone: (02) 6296 2425 78 Reed Street North, Greenway ACT 2900 Phone: (02) 6293 9666 CALWELL TAVERN 1 Webber Crescent, Calwell ACT 2905 PAGE TAVERN & BISTRO Phone: (02) 6292 8900 Page Shopping Centre, 6-8 Page Place, Page ACT 2614 CAPITAL GOLF CLUB Phone: (02) 6254 3032 Corner of Jerrabomberra Avenue and Hindmarsh Drive, Narrabundah ACT 2603 Phone: (02) 6295 9093 SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB TUGGERANONG Pitman Street, Greenway ACT 2900 CHISHOLM TAVERN Phone: (02) 6293 7200 Halley Street, Chisholm Shops, Chisholm ACT 2905 Phone: (02) 6292 2447 SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB WODEN 92-96 Corinna Street, Phillip ACT 2606 DICKSON TRADIES Phone: (02) 6283 7200 2 Badham Street, Dickson ACT 2602 Phone: (02) 6162 5656 THE BASEMENT HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB 2 Cohen Street, Belconnen ACT 2617 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Phone: (02) 6251 7630 Narrabundah ACT 2604 Phone: (02) 6295 9853 UNI PUB KALEEN BAR AND BISTRO 17 London Circuit, Canberra ACT 2601 163 Maribyrnong Avenue, Kaleen ACT 2617 Phone: (02) 6247 5576 Phone: (02) 6241 3025