Mark Wilson - Part 5 (Mosconi Captain, University Coach and Pool Ambassador)
In this fifth and final installment of our Legends of the Cue deep-dive with co-host, former Mosconi Cup Captain and player, professional pool player, master teacher, and broadcaster Mark Wilson, we bring the conversation full circle — from the bright lights of international competition to the grassroots of the game he loves.
Mark takes us behind the curtain of his Mosconi Cup captaincy, sharing the challenges of managing world-class talent, the psychology of match play, and the small strategic edges — like the all-important lag — that can swing an entire event. With candid storytelling, he reveals the intense preparation, lineup decisions, and personal mentoring that went into shaping his teams, including guiding players like Shane Van Boening, Justin Bergman, and John Schmidt through the crucible of the Cup.
The discussion then shifts to Mark’s groundbreaking tenure at Lindenwood University, where he built one of the most disciplined, academically accomplished, and successful collegiate billiards programs in history. He explains how character, accountability, and camaraderie formed the core of his coaching philosophy, producing national champions and lifelong ambassadors for the sport.
We also explore U.S. Team Billiards, Mark’s ongoing “give back” initiative, where he continues to instill professionalism, etiquette, and technical excellence in players of all levels. From creative practice drills to fostering a family-like culture, Mark’s programs reflect his unwavering commitment to pool’s betterment.
With humor, humility, and heartfelt reflection, Mark shares lessons from decades at every level of the game — as a competitor, coach, mentor, and steward of billiards history. He closes with three revealing “final questions” on what he’d do differently, the one shot he’d like back, and how he hopes to be remembered.
It’s a fitting conclusion to a five-part journey through the life of a man who has dedicated himself to leaving the sport better than he found it.
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Music by Lyrium.
About
"Legends of the Cue" is a pool history podcast featuring interviews with Pool Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around pocket billiards. We also plan to highlight memorable pool brands, events and venues. Focusing on the positive aspects of the sport, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by WPA and BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher, Mosconi Cup player and captain Mark Wilson, our podcast focuses on telling the life stories of pool's greatest, in their voices. Join Allison, Mark and Mike Gonzalez for “Legends of the Cue.”
