Dickinson hosts inaugural Jerry Heidecker Memorial Pool Tournament

Harrison L. Parrish, The Dickinson Press, N.D.
·2 min read

Mar. 20—DICKINSON — Jerry Heidecker's unparalleled passion for pool transformed a common pastime into a lifelong dedication, setting the stage for the Jerry Heidecker Memorial Pool Tournament. Unlike many who see pool as just a casual game, Heidecker devoted significant time to mastering and sharing his love for the game.

The Jerry Heidecker Memorial Pool Tournament commenced on Friday, March 15, and continued until Saturday evening. A youth tournament began that same afternoon. In the initial round, 67 participants vied for advancement, with only 16 progressing to the tournament's final round.

According to Preston Obrigewitsch, a member of the North Dakota Tournament Association, this youth tournament was Dickinson's first. It featured 16 young competitors battling for the prize. Both the youth and adult tournaments awarded trophies and cash prizes to the winners.

Obrigewitsch, who was responsible for organizing games and raffles during the event, lauded Heidecker's skills and contributions. "Jerry Heidecker was an exceptional pool player," he said, noting Heidecker's role in teaching the game to many over the years.

This sentiment was echoed by Heidecker's son, Scott, his daughter, Laurie Stronman, and a close friend, Kent Nauman, who were present at the event. They shared stories of Heidecker's eagerness to teach anyone the nuances of the game in a fun and engaging manner.

Obrigewitsch recounted a memory of Heidecker playing pool at the Eagles Club, surrounded by people eager to learn from him while having a great time.

Heidecker's expertise and enthusiasm led him to compete in local, state, and even national tournaments. Nauman, who accompanied him on these journeys, reflected on their travels across the country, culminating in a nationwide pool tournament in Las Vegas.

"He was an excellent leader," Nauman said, praising Heidecker's skill and role within their team.

Stronman fondly remembered her father's gracious demeanor, emphasizing his focus on enjoyment and interaction over the game's outcome.

The inaugural Jerry Heidecker Memorial Pool Tournament was a resounding success, attracting a remarkable turnout. Stronman concluded, "This tournament is the first of many to come," signaling a promising future for the event in honor of her father's legacy.