At the beginning of every snooker season, I select five different elements of my technique that I believe are holding me back and need improvement. This year, I am confident that the first thing I need to do is improve my aiming process. Here’s a breakdown of my goals and how I plan to achieve them.
1. Improve Aiming Process
Identifying the Problem: I’ve noticed that whenever I miss an angled shot, I often miss it too thick. I believe this is due to the way I line up the shot.
Solution: Focus on where the cue ball has to strike the object ball. Imagine the cue ball directly behind the object ball in line with the pocket. Aim your cue through the center of the cue ball’s current position to the center of where you want it to be. Push the cue through in a straight line to pot the ball.
2. Ensure Complete Follow-Through
Identifying the Problem: Occasionally, I don’t push my cue through far enough, resulting in a lack of power or spin on the cue ball.
Solution: Make sure to push the cue through all the way, especially on most shots, to achieve a predictable cue action. This makes the game more consistent and helps in understanding where you’re aiming and how the shot will play out.
3. Keep Bridge Hand Still
Identifying the Problem: I struggle with keeping my bridge hand still while playing the shot. My hand moves in an attempt to correct the shot, causing inconsistency.
Solution: Focus on keeping the bridge hand completely still, even if it means missing some shots initially. This will help in the long run as getting everything lined up perfectly will improve accuracy.
4. Line Up Correctly
Identifying the Problem: Often, my cue doesn’t drop in line with the shot, causing me to miss in various ways.
Solution: Walk into the shot with the cue online and ensure that you’re striking the cue ball in the center. Then, look up to the object ball to confirm that the cue is aimed correctly.
5. Maintain Consistent Wrist Angle
Identifying the Problem: My cue action varies because my wrist comes through at different angles from time to time.
Solution: Find a consistent wrist position that works and stick to it. The more predictable the wrist position, the more reliable the cue action will be.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts: These are my goals for the season: focusing on the cue ball after it strikes the object ball, ensuring complete follow-through, keeping the bridge hand still, lining up correctly, and maintaining a consistent wrist angle. Setting simple and achievable goals is crucial for improving your game. Remember to keep your game predictable and make the commitment to becoming a better player.
