Canadian Billiards & Snooker Association
 

Player Profile: Jason Klatt

Jason Klatt

Hometown: Selkirk, Manitoba
Rising Star Jason Klatt

Jason Klatt is a man on a mission. Having burst onto the national pool scene with a 2003 Junior Snooker title and a 2004 Junior 9-Ball title, Klatt is now one of Canada's fastest-rising stars. He won the Canadian Open 8-Ball in 2006, and has twice been runner-up in Open 9-Ball. Klatt began playing professionally in 2005, and has since racked up an impressive string of wins and top 10 finishes at events across the country and around the world. However, as the confident and cordial young man is quick to note, these results are only the beginning.

How long have you been playing pool/billiards?
14 years.
How did you first get involved in the sport?
My dad got me to start playing. He thought it would help me with learning strategy in other sports, but I ended up just getting hooked on pool.
What is it about pool that appeals to you, and makes you want to put in the effort to excel?
The competition and the fact that it isn't a team sport. All of the pressure is on you. I put the effort in to excel so that I can fulfill my goal of becoming the next Canadian World Champion.
In your pool career, what accomplishments are you most proud of?
Winning the Canadian 8-ball Championships, and being part of the World Cup of Pool.
What sacrifices have you had to make to become such an accomplished player?
The time away from my friends, family and girlfriend are the most difficult.
What goals have you set for yourself for the future?
Being the next face of Canadian pool or pool in general, getting a full time sponsor, and opening my own pool room.
Tell us a little bit about your life outside of billiards.
I spend time with my girlfriend Sarah Rousey, I like site-seeing, sports (hockey especially), cooking, golfing, watching movies...
From your experience, what does it takes to be competitive at the elite level?
Hard work -- "what you put in is what you get out". Also, competing with the best as often as possible.
What billiard player(s) do you most admire? Why?
Alex Pagulayan. I've always wanted to do what he has done for pool in Canada and pool in general. I really looked up to him when I was younger. Also, Johnny Archer, he always plays his hardest and has been a top player for so many years.
What advice would you give to a young player interested in competing at the national/international level?
Prepare as much as you can mentally and physically, try to only worry about yourself and play your game, not someone else's. Prepare for each tournament as if it is your last.

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