Anyone can start playing as soon as they’re tall enough to see over the pool table, and basically play as long as they're physically able. People enjoy playing pool well into their 70's, 80's and beyond. Watch out for people who have been playing a long time though, we call those people sharks!

The object of billiards is pretty simple which makes billiard games easy for kids to learn. Kids love to play pool. Usually they start out by playing with their parents on pool tables in their own home billiards room. Every child is intrigued by the spinning and rolling of the balls. Once they see that they can use a pool cue to hit the pool balls and make them go into the pockets, they're hooked! It’s a lot of fun teaching kids how to play pool, as with any thing else, patience is a must. It’s a great past time for families who love to spend time playing together. But watch out, because kids can be quite competitive and then you can teach them about good sportsmanship!

People of any age can learn as long as they have good eye-hand coordination and perseverance. If you don't get frustrated easily, listen and do exactly what is asked of you, before you know it, you are shooting balls in the pockets and having fun. After you practice a few times and get the hang of it, you can play singles or doubles with your friends at their houses or your favorite bar or billiards parlor. There are many fun times and laughter to be had around the billiard table. There are many different billiards games to play and you might even make up some of your own.

Watching billiards on television can be entertaining and educational. If you have a pool table at home, I would recommend watching some 9ball and 8ball matches and trick-shot competitions on ESPN and you might even want to set your DVR or VCR to record them for practice later on. Who better to watch and learn from than the best players in the world. You can learn some trick shots and show off to your friends!

So try it out and I guarantee if you can get the hang of it you'll love playing pool! Billiards is one of the few sports almost anyone can participate in. Life's great when you're having fun!

Happy shooting everybody!

Patti Aragon, (aka 8ball Outlaw)