In this captivating first chapter of our multi-part conversation with Billiard Congress of America Hall of Famer “Captain Hook” Mike Sigel, we step into the origins of one of the greatest cue artists the sport has ever known. Named Billiards Digest’s Greatest Living Player of the 20th Century, Sigel joins Allison Fisher, Mark Wilson, and Mike Gonzalez to trace the earliest threads of a life that seemed destined for the game—even before he knew the game would define him.

Sigel takes us back to Rochester, New York, where a childhood built around tennis, schoolyard walls, and a hand-me-down pool table suddenly collided with fate. The moment he first picked up a cue—left-handed, inexplicably, despite living his life right-handed—everything changed. With eye-hand coordination sharpened by tennis and a natural, almost mystic feel for the cue, he surged ahead of his brothers within weeks and discovered the passion that would shape his future.

Listeners will hear vivid memories of the old Ridge Billiards poolroom—20 Brunswick Gold Crowns, no alcohol, no frills, just pure pool—and meet the mentors and characters who shaped him. Foremost among them is straight-pool great Irving “The Deacon” Crane, whose quiet brilliance and disciplined philosophy (“Make them earn it”) laid the foundation for Sigel’s dominance in straight pool and his later mastery of nine-ball strategy.

Sigel also recounts his early days on the road, the culture of gambling in the 1970s, and his unforgettable first encounter with a young Earl Strickland—complete with barns, insects, and high-stakes drama.

This opening episode offers an intimate portrait of a prodigy discovering his gift, his voice, and the competitive fire that would make him a legend. Join us as the story begins.

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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.”