23/09/2025
A question I've been asked multiple times since the weekend is "what are the new UP balls really like?"
I've always made it clear that I'll never slander an organisation and I've got the utmost respect for any organisation that is trying to grow the game of pool. But in my position I will always give my honest opinion. And we've just seen a fantastic weekend of pool around the UK.
A few years ago I didn't know too much about the world of pool itself and I hated change too. When I first saw a set of Pro Cups I was baffled - "How can the black ball now have a massive white stripe through it?!". I know some old school players that still to this day comment on the black ball of pro cups. Again, people struggle to adapt to things that are not the norm, which is fine.
The first time I saw the teal cloth my reaction was probably the same as most others, trying to get my head around it. Then the balls followed. I'd heard previously a little rumour that spots and stripes were being introduced and originally I absolutely hated the thought of it. But again, I've spent years learning the game on green or grey cloths, playing with standard balls or pro cups. It's a massive change.
On Thursday night I entered a flyer at the arena, and played my first match using the new balls on the teal cloth. I played awful so I blamed the balls, couldn't get my head around why I was missing roll ins, has to be the balls, right? That's where everyone's head is going to go to, as they're new, and different. Two hours later after a solid practice, I had adapted. The balls are actually really nice and I personally think they'll catch on, just as pro cups did.
Now, those that know me know that I can be very opinionated 😅 if I don't like something, I don't like it and you'll know about it. All I can say to anyone hammering the new balls is, give them a go first. They are different, and that's exactly what UP are trying to be. Have their own identity. If you try them and don't like them, that is also completely fine, not everyone likes the same thing.
One thing is for sure, Ultimate Pool and The IPA are not going anywhere, let's enjoy the fact that we've got two class organisations growing the game!
The amount of talent I've seen in the Next Gen series is amazing, the future of the game is in safe hands that's for sure. And it will only grow too. Seeing Jaden win event 8 is unreal, seeing Anthony win in the IPA is just as class.
Pool is in the best place it's possibly ever been. There's going to be rivalries and call outs and a truck-load of banter and gossip. I'm all for it. It completely baffles me when I see people personally hammering either organisation or their members 🤷♂️🎱
It's been a class weekend and there's many more to come. Let me know who you'd like on the podcast and we'll sort it out 🤝🎱
DG x
