ESPN Trick Shot Magic Crowns a New Champion

On October 9 and 10, 2002…eight of the greatest “artistic pool” specialists in the world emerged at the ESPN Zone in Baltimore, MD. This magnetic host of superstars embraced the twists, turns, dips, and dives of the round spheres, along with an assortment of “prop” novelties…strategically placed across the green blaze. The highly spirited list of competitors included Mike Massey, the 2000 and 2001 ESPN Trick Shot Magic Champion. Mike is also the 2000 and 2002 WPA World “Artistic Pool” Champion. Stefano Pelinga from Italy returned for a third time, finishing second to Mike in 2001, and eager to dethrone him this time around. Other players included Sebastian Giumelli from Argentina, Ray Allard from England, Gerry Watson from Canada, and Steve Geller from North Dakota. Each of these “artistic pool” crusaders holds numerous titles in their respective federations. Enhancing the field was Charles Darling from Missouri, the 2001 WPA World “Artistic Pool” Champion, and coming off a victory in New York just days before as the North American Champion in this demanding sport. And, finally, Tom “Dr. Cue”® Rossman from Indiana was making an ESPN debut in his unique table trotter style.
Matt Braun Productions had set the stage for what would prove to be some of the closest matches in the history of this highly rated TV presentation. The format would be similar to “horse” in basketball. One player would choose a shot for a hopeful 1 point score, if made, while his opponent would have an equal chance of scoring a critical point for the same shot. Both players would have 2 attempts at each challenge. A total of 12 shots would be chosen by each player…thus offering a few surprise selections in a strategic plan of calculated moves by each champion. And, “surprise”…”surprise” would be the name of this game in more ways than one!!
The quarter final matches on October 9 pitted Allard against Darling, Geller challenging Rossman, Pelinga dueling Watson, and Massey meeting Giumelli. Victorious from these 1st four matches were Darling, Rossman, Pelinga, and Massey. A TV appearance was now guaranteed!! Each match exhibited the highly skilled techniques promised by this determined field of gladiators, and revealed matches too close to call until the final challenge. October 10 would be no exception to close matches, with Darling vs. Pelinga in the first semifinal match, and Rossman vs. Massey in the second.
Pelinga revealed his winning form once again over Darling in a nail biter. He would now have an opportunity to win the 2002 competition. As the audience filled the arena for Massey and Rossman, each player reviewed his shot plan for this “classic” battle. The last time Rossman had beaten Massey was in 1982 at the McDermott World Masters Trick Shot Championship in Milwaukee, WI. Since that time he has finished second to Massey in several “artistic pool” events on the continental and world levels. Here it was…20 years later, with each player in extreme focus…Massey, hoping to continue his winning ways, and Rossman, praying for wisdom in shot choice and a hopeful upset. Rossman literally jumped to an early lead with some “nifty” cue ball liftoffs over obstructing balls, creative stop watch timed waterfall specialties, and consistent pocketing of Massey’s selections, as well as his own. When the smoke had cleared, Rossman had climbed the mountain and experienced a miracle victory with a score of 14 – 12.
Pelinga and Rossman would play for the title, glory, and the $25,000 first place prize. All was in place for a flavorful night of competitive spirit and audience enjoyment, Rossman once again took an early lead, but Pelinga narrowed the gap. The score was tied with 1 challenge left. Rossman chose the “starburst” shot (15 balls in 3 pockets in 5 rapid fire cue movements). Perfect! Pelinga missed, so the score stood at 11 – 10, with one shot left for Pelinga to present. A new masse never before seen by Rossman was Pelinga’s choice. Both attempts by Pelinga fell short of their target, assuring Rossman of the victory!! The debut of “Dr. Cue”® on ESPN turned into a special blessing…with this victorious moment. The prayers for “burning focus” and wisdom in this unique format of shot selection were answered.
Positions of finish with corresponding prize money were as follows: 1st -- $25,000, 2nd -- $5000, 3rd & 4th -- $2000 each, and 5th thru 8th -- $1500 each. A custom Viking Cue engraved with “2002 ESPN Trick Shot Magic Champion” was presented to “Dr. Cue”® as an additional prize. Watch for the upcoming ESPN schedule of TV releases for this historic event. ENJOY!!

Article Submitted By, Tom “Dr. Cue”® Rossman October 17, 2002

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