I was about 11-years old when I won my first junior competition - that's when I realised snooker was something I wanted to pursue.
I was 13 when I made my first century break. I think I was 16 or 17 when I got my first 147 - although I've never managed one in tournament play.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
I used to practise all the time and I learned a lot from just playing.
But I did get some tips early on, like how to stun the ball or put side on it.
I practise now for about five or six hours a day.
Some of that is doing practice routines, other times playing against someone else.
Natural ability counts for so much in snooker - there's only so much you can teach.
But there are times when you need to call on advice from others.
That's why most of the top players have coaches these days.
I'm no different and I work closely with former world champion Terry Griffiths.
POTTING TIPS
First, you've got to be able to sight the ball well, which is knowing what will and won't pot.
Then, you've got to stay steady on the shot - don't take a flyer at it because your cue action will just go to pieces.
And thirdly - make sure you pot it! It might be a while before you get another chance.
There are several drills you can use to practise.
The easiest is just to set up the cue ball and object ball for a particular shot then practise it six or seven times.
Try to understand how you are aiming and playing the shot.
If you're playing in and around the black ball, it's more about control and touch - and knowing how fast the table is.
Long potting is all about confidence - and good eyesight!
Think positive!
If you're feeling down or lacking a bit of confidence, your game goes.
You start thinking about the balls you might miss more than the ones you are going to pot.
Snooker is all about keeping the same action for every shot, regardless of what type of shot it is.
It's about good technique. Get that right, and the rest of your game follows.