How far would you go to express your passion for the game? One of the sport's biggest supporters is now commited for life.

With the exception of the Camel 8-Ball Classic, Floor Manager Chuck Rooney (also one of two Denver area League Operators) is a mainstay at just about every APA National Tournament event. No stranger to the game of pool and coming all the way from Denver Colo., he has developed a sincere passion for the game of pool for over 13 years and has been in charge of the referees for APA for nearly five of them. But what Rooney likes best is the U.S. Amateur Championship's growth and opportunity for amateur pool enthusiasts.

Looking back, Rooney remembers when the APA first began the U.S. Amateur competition. "I never thought anyone would take interest in this tournament because it didn't offer a cash purse. But the truth is, these players come out here for pure enjoyment of the game and the chance to play with other quality players like themselves."

Rooney says it's great to see these amateur shooters come out to Vegas and share their knowledge of the game with others. "Being a floor manager allows me to act as an advisor to many of the players who seek questions or comments about the game. I also get to share in some excellent sportsmanship qualities and the development of friendships among the qualifiers."

Today, Chuck enjoys his trips to Vegas for the family atmosphere he feels with the APA. "Being involved with APA tournaments, especially the U.S. Amateur, gives off a great feeling of family camaraderie with players from all over the country." Now that's true appreciation. If you could only see the tattoo on his backside...