Player Profile #4- Dan Louie

I apologize for the delay in this post, but if you knew Dan, you would understand why it was so important for me to get things just right. Dan is an amazing pool player, a caring husband and father, and dedicated coach and friend to many. I was recently able to celebrate his 60th birthday with him at The Parlor in Bellevue, where he is the house pro and coach to Team Vixen. Friends and family gathered around to celebrate the life of a man who is kind and so humble, you would never know from his demeanor that he was a former world champion. Dan continues to give back to the sport that he has dedicated his life to and was gracious enough to allow me to interview him for my blog. I am truly grateful for the opportunity, so I hope that you enjoy the read.

Dan Louie was born July 17, 1952 in Seattle, WA. His father, Alan, was a well known restaurant owner, including China Gate and New Luck Toy. His mother, Fong, ran their families "at home" business in bean sprouts. Dan was one of three children. His older brother, Lincoln, was 17 years older than Dan, while his younger sister, Lily, was two years junior.

Growing UP
As a youth, Dan had many hobbies and found a love for competition early on. At only 10 years old, he placed 3rd in state at a Spin Top competition. At 12, Dan discovered a new game, pocket billiards. His dad was one of the best pool players around town and they even had their own table at home. Dan would have the neighbor kids come over and play, mostly 8 ball and straight pool in those early years. He also enjoyed hanging out with friends away from the pool table. Some of his fondest childhood memories include boating on Hood Canal with his family, the Shriner's Parade, where he worked selling posters, and driving his father's 62 Cadillac.

Dan was also an honor student growing up, in particular he enjoyed Math and Sciences. Dan graduated on his high school's honor roll and ultimately, Dan went on to attend Washington State University where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. An excellent student, Dan was also accepted at the University of Washington and Western Washington University.

Dan's first job was at Ben Paris Restaurant while still in school. It was a combined sporting goods store, restaurant, and pool room. Dan ended up quitting rather quickly, as his M-F 5-10 schedule reduced his ability to concentrate in the classroom, according to him, he was "just too tired."

Family MAN
Dan has been married 27 years to his wife. When they met, she worked as a medical interpreter and at the same restaurant as Dan. His offer to teach her how to drive ended up being the beginning of a beautiful relationship and marriage. They have three daughters together and enjoy taking small trips in their free time. Dan also has one son from his first marriage, who currently resides in Los Angeles. Most recently, Dan and a large group of his family/closest friends took a European vacation, which included Barcelona, Paris, and London. This was Dan's first trip to Europe and he said it was absolutely amazing.

When I asked Dan who the three most influential people in his life were, it was no surprise to me that he included his father (business), mother (temperament), and grandfather (values).

His family helped to shape the way that he looks at things. They have a strong asian heritage and those cultural values permeate the interactions between all family members. He was taught how to respect others, especially his elders. Modesty and honesty in all things...

Pool PLAYER
Dan is an amazing person off the table, but his demeanor and sportsmanship on the table are why I selected him for a profile write-up. His competitive drive has kept him as one of the top players in the NW region for the last 30+ years, in fact his most recent title included the Grand Master Singles 9 Ball Champion at the Western BCA Regional 9 Ball Championships (October 2012). Looking back, here is a list of some of Dan's accomplishments on the table:

1973 ACUI National Champion- 14.1 Straight Pool
1974 ACUI National Champion- 14.1 Straight Pool
1974 Labor Day Open Champion- 14.1 Straight Pool
1976 World Open 8 Ball/9 Ball Championship- 9 Ball Champion (lost playoff to Mike Sigel for All Around title- Mike was the 8 Ball Champion)
1983 Washington State NPCA Champion- 9 Ball
1996 Canadian Pro Tour Stop Champion- 9 Ball
2007 Western BCA Master Singles Champion- 8 Ball
2009 NCS National Qualifier - 14.1 Straight Pool
2010 Derby City Class Mini Champion- 1 Pocket
2011 Western BCA Grand Master Singles Champion- 8 Ball
2012 Western BCA Grand Master Singles Champion- 9 Ball

Pool EQUIPMENT
Cue- Dave Jones Custom
Case- Jack Justice
Jump- Ernie Omori Purple Heart
Break- Predator BK1 Butt with PK2 shaft (unless no phenolic allowed)

I truly hope that you have the opportunity to meet with or compete against Dan in your days, it was truly an honor for me to be a part of his living legacy.  Thanks again to Dan and best of luck in your many tournaments to come :)