Tony Chessa describes himself first and foremost as a 33 year-old father. His son Joshua is 1. He lives with his gal, Stella, in Greenock, Scotland . Family is obviously his top priority. Chessa is also full-time pro poker player – you can often find him online at Littlewoods Poker - who loves football, golf and…eating.
Tony graciously agreed to chat with us- here's what he had to say:
Holdemback: Tony, so when did you learn to play poker?
Tony Chessa: I started playing poker when I was very young, but I only began playing Hold'em 10 years ago.
HB: In the States, we don't hear much about Scottish poker – and, as a result – Scottish poker players such as yourself. So, what is the poker scene like in your homeland?
TC: To be honest, the poker scene is actually getting worse. I'd say things were pretty good about 4 years ago. They're a bit slow now.
HB: Poker is one of those off-the-beaten-path professions. What made you decide to become a pro?
TC: I thought I was good enough to make a living at it. What a mistake that was at the time! Of course, it's been a very hard lesson for me to learn, but well worth the frustration and effort.
HB: What's a typical day in the life like for Tony Chessa?
TC: To be honest, it's very normal. I try to spend a lot of time with the family when I'm home. I do play online at Littlewoods Poker (of course). I often go out for lunch with Josh and Stella and then work for a bit on my PC.
HB: There's so many variations of poker. Which types do you like the best?
TC: That's easy! If I'm playing a cash game, my game of choice would be 4-card Omaha. If I'm in a tournament, then It would have to be NL holdem.
HB: What would you say your best poker moment has been in your career so far?
TC: Well, winning my first European ranking event was cool. Really, it's all great. I love traveling and playing in different places around the world.
HB: Do you prefer tournaments or cash games?
TC: That's an easy question. Cash, cash, cash! (lol) If you ask most players that play for a living, they'd say it's a lot easier winning in cash games than in tournaments. Nowadays the fields at tournaments are so big that it's harder and harder to win at 'em. In a ring game you have more control of the final outcome. You can cherry pick the games you want to play too.
HB: Would you share with my readers some of your poker goals? For example, do you want to win the WSOP Main Event or would you prefer to score big in a higstakes game?
TC: Every player wants to win a WSOP event. That would be cool, but I am happy playing the ring games. I have won my share of tournaments, and it's a great feeling…but, for me, I prefer winning the big pots in a ring game.
HB: You play for Littlewoods Poker. What drew you to the site? I mean - how would you describe the atmosphere there for players?
TC: I think that Littlewoods is a great place to play. I like the graphics. I think the software is user-friendly and the different levels of ring games they offer are very good. I also feel that the people at Littlewoods have a good understanding of what players want.
HB: Alright, cool. What tips do you have that'll help a player improve his orher game?
TC: Enjoy the game. Don't play out of your comfort zone. Take your time and really learn the game. You can't get carried away and increase your limits before you're ready. Remember, your bankroll will last a lot longer if you play the smaller games
HB: Which pros do you admire the most – and why?
TC: I really admire all of them. It's not as easy as people think to play poker for a living. A lot of pros risk it all every day
HB: I don't want to take up any more of your time, Tony. You've already been so gracious. Before I leave you, I've got to know - is there anything else you'd like to share with my readers?
TC: I love poker and hope to see it grow and grow. So if you're like me and love it, tell your pals to start playing. Let's see the game get bigger. Oh, and come and play with us at Littlewoods Poker. After all, we are a trusted name in gaming.
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