Instruction: - Steve "The Miz" Mizerak

"The Miz" Steve Mizerak was a Hall of Famer who began collecting titles in the late 1960's, including four U.S. Open Championships. He was one of the most recognizeable faces in the world of pool, appearing in the movie " The Color of Money" and a series of Miler Lite commercials. "The Miz" was named 5th in the 50 Greaest Players of the Century.  Steve Mizerak passed away on May 29, 2006 at the age of 61.

THE GRIP

The power of your stroke comes from the hand that controls the butt of the cue stick. You should grip the cue with your power hand-your right hand if you are right-handed, or your left hand if you are left-handed-about six to eight inches from the butt-end. Some players suggest that you hold the cue about four inches behind the balance of the cue-the point at which the weight of the cue is the same on either side. The butt of the cue should be cradled in the palm of your power hand with your thumb, index, and middle fingers gripping it firmly. The other two fingers are just along for the ride. There should be no space between the cue and the area between your thumb and index finger.

There should be a little space between the cue and the palm of your hand that should increase slightly on the back swing. Regardless of the situation at the table, you should grip the butt-end of the cue in the same fashion. If you find you are doing it differently, there is probably something wrong. You know you are changing your style, and it should not be done.

Avoid the mistakes a lot of players make-lifting the back hand to elevate the cue. When circumstances force you to elevate your stick-either to get over a ball or to try to hit the cue ball low so that it returns-you should, if at all possible, raise the bridge hand, not the power or stroking hand.

The most common offender of the proper grip is the "choker". He squeezes the cue as tightly as he can. This type of grip creates tension, which prevents you from the smooth fluid stroke necessary to shoot straight. It also keeps you from being able to use wrist action on your stroke. So don't be a "choker"-be loose and relaxed!

Placement of the grip hand: At the point of contact with the cue ball, your back hand should be perpendicular to the floor. Your elbow should make a 90-degree angle at the point of contact. After you have made your bridge, take a few practice strokes, and stop the cue tip at the edge of the cue ball. Is your back hand pointing directly to the floor? It should be! Without moving the cue, slide your hand forward or back until you find the 90-degree angle. Now take a few more practice strokes before you shoot.

Relax and enjoy-it's a great sport!

"THE MIZ"