I began my pool referee career back in 2006. I have always had a curiosity about rules. You need to know the rules to know what is allowed, and what isn't. To me, not knowing all the rules gives you a competitive handicap.  My local area of Lincoln NE has a couple of well experienced and respected VNEA referees. Back then, they offered a referee class at our annual Midwest pool tournament. I told my local charter I was interested in taking the class. They signed me up and paid the class fee. Little did I know how that morning would influence not only my pool game, but my entire life.