Eric Naretto
PBIA Master Instructor, ACS Level 4 Instructor, CTE Endorsed Instructor
[email protected]Eric's dedication to the game and his commitment to excellence have made him a respected figure in the pool community. For years, Eric has been involved in competing, league operations, tournament directing, and instructing. With his extensive knowledge and experience, he continues to inspire and mentor aspiring pool players, helping them achieve their goals and excel in the sport.
Location: Pontiac, IL
Phone Number: 815-228-7498
Background
- Years Playing: 19
- Started Playing: 2006
Player Accomplishments
- 2014: Indiana South Shore Team Champion
- 2015: ACS Midwest National Scotch Doubles Champion
- 2016: ACS Iowa State Champion
- 2017: ACS Illinois State Champion
- 2019: ACS Midwest National Team Champion
- 2023: APA National 3rd Place Finish (7's Bracket)
Notable Instructors
Eric has trained with or under the following notable figures:
- Anthony Beeler
- Gordy Vanderveer
- Jerry Briesath
- Kim Young
- Margaret Styer
- Mark Wilson
- Niels Feijen
- Randy Goetlicher
- Stan Shuffet
- Craig Hauck
Instructor Information
- ACS Instructor: 2012–Current (Master since 2023)
- PBIA Instructor: 2021–Current (Master since 2023)
- CTE Endorsed Instructor: 2021–Current
- SPF Endorsed Instructor: 2024–Current
Other Contributions to the Game
- League Operator: 15 years (2010–2025, Retired)
- Tournament Director: 15 years (2010–2025, Semi-Retired)
Kim Young
PBIA Master Instructor | G1 Approved Billiard Instructor
[email protected]Kim knew at 15 years old that he wanted to be a professional billiards instructor—before he even knew such a profession existed (and before he even knew how to play)! After getting hustled by a player offering a "lesson," Kim made it his lifelong goal to master the game and the art of teaching it. His mission has been to prevent future players from experiencing the same hustling moment that sparked his journey. As one of the world's only full-time instructors—and perhaps the most active—Kim has dedicated himself entirely to coaching. As of 2025, he has worked with over 7,000 students in more than 60 countries and counting. Kim also played a pivotal role in mentoring Eric Naretto, guiding him through the ranks of PBIA/ACS.
Location: Vestal, New York
Phone Number: 607-743-2055
Background
- Years Playing: 26
- Started Playing: 1999
- Started Coaching: 2012
Notable Instructors
Kim has trained with or worked alongside the following notable figures:
- Anthony Beeler
- Rodney "Babe" Thompson
- Eric Naretto
- David Donovan
- Jerry Briesath
- Roy Pastor
- David Sapolis
- Anthony de la Merced
- Steve Campana
- Jeremiah Gage
- Tom "Dr. Cue" Rossman
- Gloria Jean
- Dr. Dave Alciatore
- Randy Goettlicher
- Steve Jennings
Kim has also been hired to work instructional events alongside professional players:
- Earl Strickland
- Dennis Hatch
- Emily Duddy
- Elvis Rodriguez
- Francisco Sanchez Ruiz
Instructor Information
- PBIA Master Instructor
- ACS Level 4 Instructor
- Senior Instructor, Billiard University
- Board Member, PBIA Instructor Committee
Other Contributions to the Game
- Owner, Dragon Billiards Instruction (one of only seven PBIA-accredited training academies in the world)
- Has certified dozens of instructors and continues training under peers to improve for his students
- ACS Certified Referee
- Inventor/Manufacturer of CenterPoint Training Cue
- Kamui Authorized Tip Installer since 2019
- McDermott Brand Ambassador
- Iwan Simonis Ride the 9 Tour Ambassador
- Dragon Billiards Instruction also offers:
- Free Juniors Training Clinics
- Equipment Sales
- Cue and Table Repair
-
2024 Community Choice Awards Finalist:
- Dragon Billiards Instruction – Best Sporting Goods Store & Best Place to Work
- Kim Young – Person of the Year
Michael Mattingly
PBIA Certified Instructor/ACS Level 2 Instructor
[email protected]Michael has dedicated over 25 years to the game, with brief breaks, and has achieved significant success in both singles and team competitions. His passion for the sport extends beyond playing, as he has contributed as a league operator and tournament director for decades.
Location: Ladd, IL
Phone Number: 815-303-3172
Background
- Years Playing: 25
- Started Playing: 1981 (with two 8-year breaks)
Player Accomplishments
- 1997 Snookers Billiards - The Tour - C Event - 3rd Place (Singles)
- 2000 Boston Billiards - The Players Tour - B Event - 3rd Place
- 2001 APA 8-Ball Division Champions
- 2010 Tortillas Flats Tournament of Champions - 1st
- 2021 TNT Champions Tournament Series - 1st
- 2021 Wisconsin State Championship Singles AA Division - 5th
- 2022 Iowa State Teams Championship - 2nd
- 2023 BCA National Teams Championships (Gold Division) - 5th Place
- 2023 Iowa State Championship 10-Ball Masters Division Singles - 2nd
- 2023 Iowa State Championship 8-Ball Masters Singles - 1st
- 2024 USTB Teams Champions (Fall and Spring)
Notable Instructors
Michael has trained with or under the following instructors:
- Eric Naretto
- Craig Hauck
- Mark Wilson
Instructor Information
- ACS Level 2 Instructor: 2025–Current
- PBIA Certified Instructor: 2025–Current
Other Contributions to the Game
- League Operator: 18 years
- Tournament Director: 23 years