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Jeffrey Pollack's surprise resignation last week as Commissioner of the World Series of Poker has left many in the poker community scratching their heads.
"It's been a very good run, and I'm proud of the growth that the tournament, and poker, for that matter, have experienced," Pollack told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. "I came into this role with a certain set of objectives, and now there's a sense of accomplishment of how the World Series of Poker has expanded."
Poker Player Annie Duke told Poker News Daily that Pollack's ascension to the role of WSOP Commissioner in 2006 marked a player-friendly movement for the tournament series. She explained, "The first thing he did was meet with top players and I was fortunate enough to be among them. He really listened to us. There was only so much he could do because in the end he didn't own it, but he was committed to working with the players and making sure they had a strong voice."
"I think it's a bummer," poker pro Joe Sebok told Poker News Daily. "The biggest thing is that the players are losing out. Jeffrey did a good job and people don't understand how much he fought for different things. He really was an advocate for us, so it's a sad day. He was a great Commissioner and I think he did a great job of fighting for the WSOP and fighting for the players."
Poker pro Tiffany Michelle offered this: "I'm very sad to see Jeffrey Pollack resigning. He has been so instrumental in the excellent changes and adaptations we've seen over the last four years. Jeffrey was professional, yet personal, which is why I think he held the respect of the entire poker community."
Since 2006, the overall number of participants in the World Series has increased each year. Under Pollack's reign, the organization emphasized the international aspect of the WSOP.
Harrah's, which runs the World Series of Poker, issued this statement following Pollack's departure: "The World Series of Poker remains the market leader, with this year's tournament exceeding all expectations, and we are well-positioned for the future. There is no intention at this time to replace the commissioner role
Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com
