Charlie - Who's Who Stateside

Charlie Williams is American pool’s Man of Action. The 25 year-old from Orlando, Florida is a promoter, tour organiser and player rep as well as being a top draw competitor in his own right. Recent victory in the BCA in Las Vegas confirmed his credentials as a member of the top set of current American pool players and he was an undefeated member of the winning 2001 Mosconi Cup side.

Speaking exclusively to worldpoolchampionship.com, Williams gives the low-down on his American teammates as they make their final preparations for Cardiff.


Frankie Hernandez - Very little experience in big events is going to be Frankie's biggest opponent in Cardiff. However, if he settles in, with his devastating break, great safety play, and a pretty strong kicking game, Frankie has potential to do well.

George Sansouci - He has not had a good year on tour and a bad showing last year at the World's will make most critics count him out. You have to remember, though, that he has won major events against world-class players and guys like him never forget how to win.

Jim Rempe - Though not in his prime anymore, he could have a flashback. Being inducted in the Hall of Fame this year could either make him more relaxed in competition, or it could give him a confidence boost to free stroke.

Shawn Putnam - Again, very green to big events. The pressure of the event and environment will be tough hurdles, but Shawn is a very capable player and on the improve.

Danny Harriman - Having been gone from the tour for 3 years, it will take time to shake the rust off. He has amazing fundamentals, though, and his knowledge of the game could make his a force to contend with.

Kim Davenport - Still looking to do well in Cardiff, Kim is high off a big win in the US. Always a tough opponent to play against, Kim is a hard-nosed competitor.

Troy Frank - Sometimes streaky, Troy should still do well in this event. Maybe the most underrated player on tour.

Shannon Daulton - He has been a little silent the last year, and an absence from 2001’s Championship does not help. Even so, there aren't too many people that would want to take their chances with him on the pool table at anytime.

Earl Strickland - You just never know with this man. If he doesn't beat himself up, he is potentially the most dangerous player in the world. If he is on, he is unstoppable.

Charlie Williams - A winner!(ha ha) But seriously, overcoming a number of factors including promoting my own events, running the US men's pro tour (UPA), and a serious lack of time to practice will be the real obstacles. But it worked out in Vegas at the BCA so maybe lightning could strike twice...

Jeremy Jones - A sub-par year without any big finals appearances, Jeremy always seems to do well in the UK. A nice finish last year and undefeated with superb play at the Mosconi Cup, Double J won't be an easy draw.

Nick Varner - Sadly, his best years are probably gone in 9-ball. But amazingly enough to his credit, he is still ranked No.3 in US at age of 53. Probably the greatest mental approach to the game ever, lookout for a flashback.

Johnny Archer - Many people consider him to be the greatest example of the modern day 9-Ball Professional. Though never having won this World Championship since it has taken on a new form, no tournament has ever escaped his winning grasp for very long.

Cory Deuel - A true pool prodigy, Cory's unorthodox game has often confused and mesmerized his peers. The only player I have seen to be able to shake the nerves of the legendary & mysterious Filipinos with his own blend of unique mystery and style. Though not the best shotmaker in the world, and sometimes making the strangest mistakes, Deuel is still probably the US's best hope in winning the event. That's probably why he's ranked No.1.