By: Jeremy T. Ballreich
March 28th, 2018, I worked for a company that set up and tore down billiards tables of all kinds. We had the distinct honor of traveling to Ann Arbor to dismantle the oldest pool room in the state of Michigan at none other than the University Of Michigan.
This pool room opened with Alumni money back in 1919. It was always a place where students could go to have a relaxing evening playing pool. Darts and other games throughout the place. With a few 10′ tables, a 3 cushion table. But mostly 9′ tables.
It took most of the day to do the arduous task. I being an amateur pool player myself. I was elated yet dismayed to be there to know this era was coming to an end to see this be changed to a media room. With so few great places to play pool for young people.
The sport is slowly losing the once great exposure it had on channels such as ESPN and ABC wide world of sports. Log gone are the greats of the game. Willie Mosconi. It was at it’s height in the early 80’s. I remember watching pool not only on TV. But was even featured in beer commercials.
To be a good pool player, it takes patience like a surgeon, the steady hands of a classical pianist, and the stamina of a NASCAR race driver.
Pool is still going. But losing that pool room. It was a major blow to amateur pool in this state.
Again I was happy, yet dismayed to be a part of it. I took a moment to take it all in. But as we pulled away. A tear ran down my cheek.
Just wanted to give a little insight to my background as an avid pool player myself.
Thanks for Reading!!!
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