Getting Better Systematically

Run It Once coach Patrick “FreeNachos” Gerritsen knows what it's like to feel stuck as a poker player. For years, he struggled to move beyond the $0.10/$0.25 online games. But then something changed: he discovered a new approach - not just to poker, but to learning itself.

In a recent article, he explained the concept of deliberate improvement, a strategy he believes anyone can use to elevate their poker skills. Here’s the gist: true mastery isn't about endless hours of grinding; it's about targeted, feedback-driven practice that leads to measurable progress.

Key takeaways:

• Focus on specifics: Identify a single skill gap (for example, defending cbets BTN vs BB in 3bet pots) and drill it relentlessly.

• Seek expert feedback: Outside eyes catch what you miss.

• Push beyond comfort: Progress lives on the edge of your abilities.

The big picture: Deliberate practice demands a clear goal, concentrated effort, and immediate feedback. Random reps won’t cut it if you truly want to improve.

How to implement it:

• Pick a “micro-skill” (a specific spot you feel uncomfortable in) to work on.

• Practice intentionally for a set time using flashcards and drills.

• Get feedback from trusted peers, tweak, repeat.

Bottom line: Quantity of practice matters, but quality is everything. Embrace the deliberate approach to fast-track your progress and move out of low stakes forever.

In The News

• WSOPC. Daniel Lowery has tied Maurice Hawkins by capturing his 18th WSOP Circuit ring, thanks to back-to-back victories in separate $250 buy-in Seniors events within a single week. Lowery, who now has $1,906,704 in WSOPC earnings, sits second on the tour’s all-time money list.

• Negreanu. Daniel Negreanu just revealed his possible WSOP schedule and it's a big one. KidPoker is eyeing up to 53 events with only two days off in between, totaling nearly $1 million in buy-ins (and that’s before rebuys!). This year marks Negreanu's first-ever Seniors event, since turning 50 earlier this year.

• Poland. PokerStars has announced an exit from the Polish market after an intention of building leadership positions in regulated markets. This is tough news for Polish grinders, who also don't have access to any legal live poker rooms.

• Open. The first-ever PokerStars Open has wrapped up in Campione, Italy, where Adrian State emerged as the champion of the €1,100 Main Event. The Romanian pro topped a massive field of 2,423 entries, taking home €363,000 for his victory.

Why Moneymaker Left PokerStars

Chris Moneymaker, a name that needs no introduction, recently opened up in a long-form interview with Craig Tapscott. He shared insights into why he left PokerStars after 17 years, how his approach to poker has evolved, and addressed recent controversies involving America's Card Room (ACR).

On leaving PokerStars: 

Moneymaker's decision to part ways with PokerStars was deeply personal. Over the years, as the company grew into a corporate giant, he felt his role became less influential after the founder Isai Scheinberg sold the company as more bureaucracy was involved. The pandemic also played a crucial role, making him rethink his priorities after realizing how much valuable family time he'd missed due to constant travel to play in PokerStars events and states where the site was operating.

On ACR: 

Moneymaker revealed it was ACR’s CEO Phil Nagy who convinced him to join the site, but only after making sure that all player funds are secure and segregated. He openly addressed recent controversies, notably the RTA scandal involving Nacho Barbero and Ebony Kenney. 

Moneymaker acknowledged ACR’s poor communication around these issues and candidly admitted that, if it were his decision, he'd strongly consider parting ways with both players. He also didn't shy away from admitting his own missteps during last year's bot scandal.

Moneymaker. Chris Moneymaker has lived through a fairytale story in poker, while remaining a great ambassador for the game. His perspective is refreshingly honest and insightful making the full interview highly recommended listening for anyone interested from a one-of-a-kind perspective.

Did you know?

March 19, 1931. The date that gambling was legalized in the state of Nevada as a way to boost the economy during the Great Depression. Safe to say, the plan succeeded.

March 19, 1931. The date that gambling was legalized in the state of Nevada as a way to boost the economy during the Great Depression.