Player Interview: Pete Genovese
Determination Finally Pays Off for Genovese
Few had experienced the success of Pete Genovese prior to the 2005 U.S. Amateur Championship. A 4-time qualifier, Genovese has never finished lower than 13th in the event, and as high as 2nd Place in 2003. Following his Runner-up finish that year, Genovese hoped that 2004 would finally be his year to attach the title of U.S. Amateur Champion to his name. But Genovese finished in a disappointing 3rd in his hometown last year.
A determined Genovese returned this year on a mission. He cruised undefeated through his first two days of competition, but then met Scott Pardo on Sunday afternoon. Pardo, a fellow U.S. Amateur Championship veteran, handed him his first loss. Genovese had his work cut out for him, but after a victory over newcomer Tim Orange, he earned a chance at the ultimate redemption against Pardo. Genovese was not about to let this opportunity slip away. After trading wins with Pardo the first four games, Genovese went on a tear and won the match 11-5.
“It’s the most unbelievable feeling. I’m not sure how many people here had an appreciation for what it means to me to finally win this title. It was frustrating not getting over that hump last year to take home that big trophy, so this means a great deal. I put a lot of pressure on myself,” said Genovese after the match.
Genovese said the victory meant even more to him because he faced Pardo in the finals.
“It always feels good when you get an opportunity to redeem yourself against a player who beat you earlier in the tournament. Scott is a tremendous player and I have a lot of respect for him so it was great playing him in the finals,” said Genovese.
Ironically, Genovese was denied a championship in 2003 after being defeated in the finals by an opponent he had defeat earlier on in the tournament. He said despite his lead in the finals, he wasn’t about to take anything for granted against Pardo.
“I just wanted to get on the hill, and it wasn’t until I got to that point, even with a lead, that I felt real good about my chances and let myself start to think a little bit about that champagne,” said Genovese with a big grin.
© 2005, American Poolplayers Association