Algonquin students had the chance to do just that March 19, when Canadian pool legend Gerry Watson was at the Observatory, clobbering challengers, shooting tricks and sinking both stripes and solids for delighted spectators.  Nicknamed “the ghost,” Watson describes himself as a defensive pool player. 

“Fans gave me my nickname,” said Watson, “because I would never leave my opponent with a good shot.” 
Born in Cornwall, Ont., Watson was living in Montreal when he started playing pool professionally, at the age of 12.  Before that, Watson played hockey which he had to give up due to an injury. 

While he admits to occasionally wondering how his life would have been different if he had pursued professional hockey instead of pool, Watson had nothing but good things to say about his experiences. 

“With pool there’s been a lot of world travel that I wouldn’t have experienced with hockey,” said Watson.  “It’s been a heck of an excursion.”

Watson has won the Canadian Open 8-Ball Championship and twice won the Canadian Open 9-Ball Championship.  He has also performed on television thousands of times. 

Watson currently lives in the Philippines and comes to North America to tour for five months at a time.  There was a point in his career when his skills were highly in demand. 

“I had so many people wanting lessons,” said Watson. 

While he no longer teaches pool, Watson recommends taking advantage of the trainers who are available today for aspiring pool players. 

Nevertheless, Watson claims he never had a trainer when he was younger and developing his skills, nor did he require one.  “I’m a natural athlete,” said Watson.  “I’m good with my hands.”