[danny_shank]

This is the equivalent of much of the golfing "hoary old chestnuts" that still prevent us from playing golf as well as we might.

No good focusing on what we are not involved with. We, in your example - and I play a lot of snooker - must focus on the ball being struck by the cue. Imprecise contact with the cue ball, despite focussing on the object ball, will damn the shot to eternity.

I must admit i'm surprised you'd say that. Personally i find snooker much easier looking at the object ball. Also don't the top snooker players all do the same?

To continue the topic do you think it is possible to get too ball conscious, at the detriment of the whole movement? Indeed how important is it actually looking at the ball at all? For example if you trace the plane line correctly and are aware and maintain the correct pressures in the hands do you need to be focused on the ball for correct striking?

As far as speed control goes i'm sure this must be easier when looking at your target. The golfer feels how hard they are gonna hit it in their practice swings then we put our head downs and do our best to remember. This can never be as accurate in speed control terms as the alternative.

I'm not saying i agree with this, as i look at the golf ball when i putt. Just throwing some ideas in the air.