A Message to All Members of The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc.
We at The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc. (Privately Organized and Operated Leagues) would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the new generation of league play. Our goal is to promote the sport of billiards in a forum that fosters fellowship, good sportsmanship and team spirit. Your affiliation with The Association is very important to us important because it lets us know that you share the same love of the sport of billiards as we do. We hope that you enjoy your league play, and are certain that you'll witness your skills developing as you participate in the fastest growing team sport of the new millennium.
The Association has put a good deal of effort into developing the programs offered to our members. Our research has noted that there are dozens of different ways to play the sports of 8-Ball and 9-Ball, and these vary from establishment to establishment throughout the United States. We've structured our rules to be as fair as we possibly can to all of our players, regardless of where they are competing. Please remember that there will be circumstances that arise that aren't specifically covered in the rules. We ask you to use this booklet as a guide, and let your common sense and sportsmanship do the rest. Also remember that there are all levels of players and teams in our Association. Some like to play for fun, and others enjoy the thrill of competition. Please remember that we all have the right to play and participate in this great sport. Whatever a person's reason for playing, respect that reason and encourage that person to do their best.
The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc. and it's subsidiary, POOLNet, are nationally recognized league and tournament management systems. We'll soon to be international in scope. The support of our players has gotten us to where we are today, and your continued support will put us in the forefront of the industry we've all grown to love. We hope to see all of you at one of our regional "Titleholders" tournaments, and perhaps some day, we'll be handing you a check for the winners share of a "Titleholders" event Until then, kick back and enjoy our league experiences and remember that while we may be "the new kids on the block,"...
"After all the rest,
Why not the best?"
Introduction to League Play
Many of our members have been playing league pool for years; however, some find themselves participating in organized league play for the first time. If this is the case for you, a few simple rules will make your league experience, as well as those of your teammates, as enjoyable as possible. These are as follows:
1. Before being allowed to compete in an Association sponsored event, you must be a bona fide member in good standing with the Association. This requires filling out an Association membership form and paying your annual membership and league fees, also staying active for any events or session you or your team may have entered or qualified. Remmember the time to stop playing is when you have completed your obligations for the session and events for that session. Should you not do this, a Licensee and/or League Director will not sanction your participation in any Association sponsored event.
2. When you sign up to play in a league, you make a commitment to your league and team- mates to play the entire league session. League pool, the way we play it, is a team effort and only through this commitment can we foster the type of fellowship that we are looking to develop through active participation in our Association. Also try your best to stay commited to the team you started with at the beginning of the session. Changing teams is accepted and sometimes needed and should be done early in the sesion if needed.
3. You should make it a point to be on time and play your league matches. It is a matter of common courtesy not to keep your opponents waiting to start league play. If you don't start on time your match could be forfeited.
4. Always be courteous and polite to your opponents and fellow players. While we foster a competitive environment, we don't want this to take precedence over the rights that everyone has to enjoy themselves, just have fun.
5. Abusive behavior and foul language will not be tolerated, and may be cause for suspension of your Association membership.
6. The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc. does not condone gambling and will suspend any member doing so during league play.
7. Every member has an obligation to pay league fees. You should remember that if you do not pay, the only people who suffer are your fellow team members, as your shortages may result in your team being ineligible for league post-session play or to compete in the "Titleholders". Also your shortages my be posted on the league rosters for other divisions to note.
8. There is an old adage that goes "It's not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game" that aptly sums up our approach to league play. While we consider all of our members to be "winners", for every match that is played there has to be an official "winners" to conduct themselves like champions, and our "losers" to conduct themselves like ladies and gentlemen.
9. If there is something that you don't understand about the way your league is being run, we encourage you to approach your League Director with questions. If necessary, your question will be referred to The Association's corporate board. All inquiries will be answered because we firmly believe that a member who understands why something is done in a particular fashion, rather than in some other manner, is one who will be more apt to continue participating in our Association's activities.
10. Always respect the house rules of the establishment in which your are playing.
General Guidelines for Play
Team Handicapped 8-Ball
Object of the Game: The game of 8-Ball is played with fifteen (15) balls numbered one through fifteen and a cue ball. The object of the game is to pocket either all of the "low balls" (numbers 1-7), or all of the "high balls" (numbers 9-15), after which you are entitled to shoot and hopefully pocket the 8-Ball. Once this has been done, the player legally pocketing the 8-Ball wins.
Beginning Play
Choosing Your First Player
Games commence with opposing Team Captains tossing a coin to determine who will be the first to announce a player. The winner of the coin toss has the option to either choose a player form his or her team, or have the opposing Team Captain choose a player form their team to start the first game of the first match. After this has been done, player selections will be alternated for the following matches until all league matches are completed.
Lagging for the Break
Once two players have been selected, they must simultaneously "lag" for the break. The "lag shot" is executed by stoking an object ball from behind the head string to the foot rail and attempting to have int come to rest as close to the head rail as possible. The winner of the "lag" is the player whose ball has touched the head rail. The "lag" is considered a skill shot and should never be aborted in favor of a coin toss. The winner of the "lag" has the option of wither breaking the rack or awarding his/her opponent the break. In subsequent games, the winner of the previous game breaks. (NOTE: In cases where the cue ball is of different weight or size from the other balls, it should not be use for the "lag").A pocketed ball is a loss of the lag.
Racking the Balls
The fifteen object balls are racked in a triangular shape, with the 8-Ball in the center and the other balls distributed throughout the rack in random fashion. The object ball at the top of the triangle should be centered on the foot spot. The player breaking can request a rack check before breaking the balls.
The Break Shot
The player entitled to the break has cue ball-in-hand behind the head string. The breaking player must attempt an open break, driving as many balls to the rail as possible. At least four (4) balls must contact a rail, cut ball included, or a ball must be pocketed, to constitute a legal break. If this task has not been accomplished, the opposing player is entitled to ask for a new rack and may elect to break. Please note that this is at the non-breaking player's discretion.
An attempt to break that results in the cue ball crossing the head string, but not hitting the rack, is a foul. In this case, the opposing player has the option to take the break or allow the breaking player another attempt at the break.
If any balls, other than the 8-Ball, are driven off the table during the break shot, those balls are spotted. If the cue ball is pocketed, or driven off the table during the break shot, the incoming player has cue ball-in-hand behind the head string. All object balls that are pocketed "remain down". In either case, the incoming player has his/her choice of object balls on an "open table". (NOTE: For scoring, the breaker gets the number of balls added to his or her score under the "Made on Break (MOB) column).
A player pocketing the 8-Ball during a legal break wins the game. If the breaking player pockets the 8-Ball and scratches or drives the cue ball off the table, which is another form of "scratch", that player loses the game. If the player drives the 8-ball off the table during a legally executed break, he/she loses the game. (NOTE: In either of these instances, the score sheet should be marked with balls "Left on Table" (LOT) for both players and the "Win"and "Loss" properly marked).
Continuing Play After the Break
If the player pockets a ball on the break, that player continues to shoot until he/she misses or fouls. Regardless of which category of balls is made ("low balls" or "high balls"), the table remains "open" until a shooter has completed a skill shot. Once this has been accomplished, that category of balls belongs to that shooter for the remainder of the game. (NOTE: Combination shots are also "open" until a player's category has been determined with the exception of the 8-ball, which is never neutral). Once your category of balls has been determined, you shoot your category of balls in a called pocket until you miss. When this happens, your opponent assumes control of the table and does the same until the 8-ball is legally pocketed. (NOTE: If a foul is committed on any shot after the break, the incoming player has cue ball-in-hand anywhere on the table).
"Skill" Shots/Good Hits
Our leagues are "call your pocket". The shooter must execute a skill shot by first hitting one of his/her category of balls (thus making a "good hit") and then causing that ball or one of his/her types of balls to fall into a called pocket, for example: "5-ball in the corner pocket". If you have completed this task, you have then accomplished a skill shot, and you are allowed to continue your turn at the table until you miss or foul. When the table is "open", your category of ball can only be determined by executing a skill shot. If you call the 5-ball in the corner pocket, as in our example, and it goes in the side pocket, that is considered a "slop shot". In this case, the 5-ball is spotted and your opponent assumes control of the table. If you complete a skill shot and then scratch, you are awarded the shot and the ball pocketed is your category for the remainder of the game, but your opponent has cue ball-in-hand because of the foul on the scratch, unless you were shooting the 8-ball, in which case, you would lose the game. (NOTE: The rule concerning spotting balls can vary depending on the equipment in use and the location of play. Please contact your league representative for further information. For additional information, see "Commentary on Tavern Rules"). If you are calling a low percentage shot, or a combination shot, it is a matter of courtesy to call the shot to eliminate any potential for controversy. It is the opponent's responsibility to ask for the call.
"Banking" Shots
A player electing to play a bank shot must call it as such along with the pocket the ball is to be banked into. It does not matter how many rails the object ball strikes, as long as it drops into the called pocket. This is considered a skill shot. This stands with all forms of bank or kick shots.
Completing Multiple Balls in One Shot
If you call your ball and pocket and complete a skill shot, it is marked as a completed shot. After completing a skill shot, any other numbered balls, regardless of whether they are "high-balls" or "low-balls", that drop into a pocket stay down and need not be marked on your score sheet. If you miss your called shot and you pocket your opponent's ball, that ball stays down. If you miss your called shot and any of your balls go down, they are spotted. If you are in a situation where you need to call low balls in one shot, this must be done in the sequence called and fully completed, or it is counted as a miss and your pocketed balls are spotted. (NOTE: For additional information, see "Commentary on Tavern Rules").
Shooting the 8-Ball
When shooting the 8-ball, you must mark the pocket you are calling. As long as the 8-ball goes in that marked pocket, it is a good shot. Any form of a scratch on the 8-ball is loss of game. Your team can remind the shooter to mark the pocket without it being considered a time-out, coaching or outside interference.You do not have to touch the marker if it is already at the designated pocket.
Combination Shots
Combination shots are legal during league play. You must strike the correct category of balls first to execute a skill shot. The 8-ball is never neutral, but can be used as part of a combination after the appropriate category of balls has first been hit.
Defensive Shots
A player may call a defensive (or safety) shot instead of attempting to pocket an object ball. A player must "announce" a defensive shot prior to its execution, or it is treated as a routine shot. A player surrenders his/her turn at the table after executing a defensive shot and the incoming player plays the cue ball from the positions that it has assumed on the table. (NOTE: See "Commentary on Tavern Rules" for additional information).
Fouls
A player committing a foul must relinquish his/her turn at the table. If a skill shot is correctly executed when the foul occurs, the shooter is awarded the shot but is penalized by having to give his/her opponent cue ball-in-hand. The following are examples of commonly occurring fouls:
Foot Foul - during any shot, a shooter must have one foot on the floor or he/she has fouled and the incoming player has cue ball-in-hand anywhere on the table. (NOTE: This rule does not apply to players who are physically impaired).
Bad Hit - If the first ball contacted by the cue ball is not of the player's category, it is a bad hit and considered a foul.
Scratch - If a player pockets the cue ball or drives the cue ball off the table, it is a foul. If you scratch and you are shooting the 8-ball, it is loss of game. If a player executes a skill shot and then scratches, the shot is considered complete and the ball stays down, but the opponent is awarded cue ball-in-hand.
Failure to drive a ball to a rail - A player must either legally pocket a ball or drive a ball to a rail after making a good hit or he/she has fouled. (NOTE: If the table is "open", any ball except the 8-ball may be struck and then any ball must subsequently be driven to a rail to constitute a good shot, unless a ball is pocketed during the execution of the shot).
Ball off the table - If a player drives the cue ball off the table, it is a form of scratch and is treated accordingly. If a player drives one of their object balls off the table, the ball is spotted and the opponent shoots from where the cue ball has come to rest. If a player drives his/her opponent's ball off the table, that ball stays down and the opponent shoots from where the cue ball has come to rest. If the 8-ball is driven off the table, it is loss of game.
"Push" Shot - When the cue ball is "frozen" to the object ball, the shooter may execute the shot in any fashion he/she desires and it will be considered a legal shot. (NOTE: When the cue ball and object ball are not frozen, but are closer together than the width of a piece of chalk, the shooter mush elevate his/her cue and strike down through the cue ball in an effort to impede the forward motion of the cue ball. As this is an amateur league, we ask only that a player make a bona fide attempt to execute this shot).
Split Hits - A situation that occurs when a player contacts one of his/her balls and an opponent's ball (or the 8-ball) at the same time. In our Association, this situation does not constitute a foul. If it is suspected that a player may play a shot that might result in a "split hit", the non-shooting player should ask that a league official, referee or another player, observe the shot. In this instance, it would be that individual's duty to watch, and if necessary, call the hit. In the absence of an observer, should a controversy over the hit arise, the call will go to the shooter.
Accidental Movement of Balls - If a player accidentally touches or moves the cue ball prior to executing his/her shot, it is considered a foul, and the incoming player is entitled to cue ball-in-hand. This is at the discretion of the non-shooting player, who may take cue ball-in-hand or allow his/her opponent to play the shot.Touching the cueball with the leather tip of your cue is a foul. (NOTE: Players should remember that sportsmanship is the name of the game, and it is incumbent upon everyone to apply this rule judiciously where players of lower skill levels are concerned). If a player accidentally touches or moves an object ball, it is not a foul unless it was touched by the cueball. The shooter should afford their opponent the opportunity to reposition the object ball, after which he/she will be allowed to shoot their shot. If the player repositions the ball without affording his opponent the opportunity to do so, he/she has fouled and the opponent is awarded cue ball-in-hand.
Payment of League Fees
All teams are responsible for the payment of league fees, regardless of how many players shoot during each league match. Forfeits of matches are not exception. The full amount agreed upon should be in your league packet at the end of each league match unless other arrangements have been made with the League Director. (NOTE: Fees can vary by Division or State according to the type of league in which you are shooting. You may pay your league fees by check. Any returned check will have a service charge of $25.00. This may also vary by Division or State. It is important for you to understand that the team is responsible for any shortages and can be eliminated from participating in tournaments or receiving any prize funds until all league fees are paid. Because a percentage of your team fees go into the prize fund for the end of the league session tournament, this helps protect the teams that do fulfill their financial obligations. If you have any questions about this policy, please call the corporate office).
Coaching
A player is allowed to receive coaching from a fellow teammate who has been designated as the team coach prior to the start of each match. Only one coach may be designated for each player's match and may not be changed during that match unless approved by the opposing team's captain. The player or team coach for each team is entitled to call two "time-outs" per game, lasting no more than one-minute each, to discuss a given situation. (NOTE: You should remember that the game belongs to the players and they have the right to play the match the way they want. Respect this right. Make sure the time-out is mutually desirable). In an instance where a coach must leave the playing area, the coaching authority immediately extends to the Team Captain,. During any legitimate time-out, both players have the right to talk with their coach.
During a time-out the coach may not place the cue ball on the table (in an instance where his/her player has cue ball-in-hand), touch or mark the playing area of the table, or touch or otherwise disturb any of the balls on the table. Doing so constitutes a foul and the opponent is entitled to cue ball-in-hand.
After the time-out, coaches must cease communication with their players, and the player must execute his/her shot in a timely fashion. (NOTE: An outside player on the team can talk to the coach and relay information to the player at the cost of a time-out. The link to the player is through the coach. There are not other passages to that player allowed).
Interference and "Side-Line" Coaching
Any person who interferes with the course of the match by offering advice, distracting a player, altering the position of the balls, or otherwise disturbing play, subjects their player to a foul. In this instance, the match referee must warn the individual involved and that player's Team Captain/coach. After the warning, any reoccurrence of the offensive behavior results in an escalating series of fouls which could result in the loss of game or match.
Slow Play
It is incumbent on every player in the league to ensure that his/her league match progresses in a timely fashion. A 45-second shot rule exists and will be used as the benchmark for assessing slow play. If a player is taking a significantly longer amount of time to execute a shot, the opposing team's captain has the right to ask a league official to administer a slow play warning. If, after being warned, the player continues to play slowly, the opponent will receive cue ball-in-hand. In all matters concerning slow play, the decision of the League Director/referee will be final. (NOTE: Most of our leagues are played at night and it is important for the matches to be completed in a timely fashion. All players should note that after a match has been completed, a team has five (5) minutes to field another player, or the match may be subject to forfeit).
Shot Clock
All sports have a time limit and billiards is no exception. In some leagues, there is a shot clock used to monitor the 45-second time limit of your shot. The time limit commences after your opponent's shot ends and the cue ball comes to rest. If a time-out commences in the middle of your decision making process, the time remaining on the clock is still in use. (NOTE: Depending on your area, an official clock might not be in use, but shot times will be monitored as closely as possible. See the section captioned "Slow Play" for more information or contact your league official).
Time-Outs
A player is entitled to two (2) time-outs per game regardless of their handicap level. Each time-out is one (1) minute in duration. See the section marked "Coaching" for additional information.
Timeouts should be kept to under one minute.
Protests and Disputes
Only the match player or the designated coach or Team Captain have the right to protest a shot during the course of league play. If it is a shot that is in question, then play should cease until a league official, local league operator, referee or Licensee can resolve the matter. All players should remember that once a shot has been completed, and the shooting player takes another shot, if a foul has been committed but has not been called, the non-shooting player loses his/her right to call a foul, and the match will continue as if the foul never happened. (NOTE: Always remember that we want you to play and enjoy the game and win it on a skill level, rather than by manipulation of the rules).
Fielding a Team
Team Total Handicap Rules/ Criteria (The "25 Rule")
To field a legitimate five (5) player team, the sum total of the team's handicap may not exceed twenty-five (25). A team can play their players in any order they choose as long as the "25 Rule" is not violated.
Violation of the "25 Rule"
If a Team Captain cannot field a legitimate team according to the "25 Rule", he/she must then field their team accordingly:
Total handicap for three (3) player team cannot exceed 18; and
Total handicap for four (4) player team cannot exceed 21.
Failure to Field a Legitimate Team
If a Team Captain cannot field a legitimate team in accordance with the criteria set forth above, they will forfeit ONLY those matches that are in violation of the rule. (NOTE: It is the best rounded team that stays the strongest throughout the league session, so choose your players wisely).
Adding and Dropping Players
Generally speaking, no team should have more than eight (8) players on its roster. There may be circumstances that are unique that would allow a team to have more than eight players, but these need to be reviewed and approved by the League Director prior to the start of the league.
A team may add a player to its roster at any time during the league session, however, a player must play five (5) league matches on a specific team to be entitled to play in league playoffs or "Titleholders" competition.
The "Original Players" Rule
During "Titleholders" events all teams must adhere to the "Original Players" Rule. In this regard, the team that qualified for the "Titleholders" event must have four (4) of the original players on their roster in order to field a legal team. In addition, of those four (4) players, three of them must play in the first three (3) matches before other players are allowed to compete.
The "Known Player" Rule
A player that is brought in to the league that has no previous handicap or league experience may be ascribed a handicap by the League Director or other league official if his/her skill level is known by that person. This is a discretionary matter solely up to the decision of the League Director or other league official.
The "Team Survival" Rule
If your team has a problem losing players, you should bring it up with your League Director at the earliest possible time to enlist their help in obtaining a full complement of players. If a team legitimately drops below three (3) players, they may then add players to their roster at any time during the session in order to legitimately finish the league session. This should be coordinated with the League Director. It is suggested that you not wait until your team is in jeopardy of falling into this category before brining this to your League Director's attention. Otherwise, he/she may not be able to help your team. This is particularly important as league sessions draw to a close.
Professional Players
Individuals who hold current membership in a men's or women's professional billiards association are not allowed to compete in The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc.'s handicapped league events as these leagues are intended strictly for the amateur player. Although we have all skill levels of players in our Association, we still need to provide a comfortable level of protection for the recreational player. This is where our first concern lies. We also need to protect the prize funds to which our players contribute so that everyone has a fair chance at winning prize money. Taking all of this into consideration, if you hold a pro card in any of the current professional associations, you will not be allowed to compete in any of our handicapped league events.
Make-up Matches
In house league locations allow make-up matches. For those teams wishing to make matches up, it is important that the match be noted on your Team Summary Sheet so that the credit can be directed to the correct team. Also, make-up matches must be agreed upon by both teams and have approval by the League Director before they are considered official. All make-up matches
should be completed within two (2) weeks of the date of the scheduled match. No matches can be made up within the last two weeks of league play. Travel Leagues do not have the opportunity for make-up matches due to the scheduling of multiple locations in which the leagues plays. When a new division is starting, a League Director may offer a new team make-ups for two weeks of play. No teams will be added after the third week of play. (NOTE: All make-ups are at the sole discretion of the League Director).
Forfeits
League matches can be forfeited under the following circumstances:
1) A scheduled team match does not commence within fifteen (15) minutes of the scheduled match time. Three (3) points will be awarded for a team forfeit; or 2) A team is unable to field a player whose handicap is appropriate for the given match, as described by the criteria set forth under the "Team Total Handica
Score Keeping 18p Rules/Criteria" clause.
All forfeits should be properly marked on the score sheets and/or Team Summary Sheets. For a team to claim a forfeit, it must identify a player to use for statistical purposes. If you have a player who is in need of a match to qualify for tournament play, mark that player as having played the forfeited match and he/she will be given credit.If both teams can only field four players, the team that must put a player up first for the fifth match will forfeit saince they were the legally obligated to do so first. (NOTE: Your league fees for the forfeited match are still due regardless if the match was played or not.)
It is impossible to document all cases where forfeitures may apply. We recommend that you stay within the guidelines of the rules and play to the spirit and intent of the rules as good sportsmen should. (NOTE: There will always be players who, for whatever reason, try to test the system and manipulate the rules to their advantage. League Directors and officials easily come to recognize these people, and will take the appropriate steps necessary to control their behavior).
"Concession"
If a player concedes, he loses the match. The unscrewing of a jointed cue stick, except to change a shaft, is considered to be a concession. A player must notify their opponent if they plan to change the shaft or the match is considered a forfeit.
"Byes"
In some leagues, there will be an uneven number of teams competing during a league session. When this happens, a BYE will be written into the schedule to even out the schedule. On a night when a team is scheduled to receive a "BYE", it will be credited three (3) points for that match>
Handicapping
League handicaps are based on raw data taken from the players score sheets for each league match, as determined by a computer formula developed and copyrighted by The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc. Players, Team Captains, league representatives, or Licensees do not have the right to change these handicaps. (NOTE: There is always the possibility that an error can be made when posting handicaps. If this seems to be the case, the matter should be called to the attention of the League Director, who will be responsible for adjudicating the matter. This action will then be verified by the corporate board and posted in the computer system for verification purposes).
Should a player join the league who has not had a previously established handicap, he/she will play a "Race-to-3" and will be counted as a "3" for purposes of the "25 Rule" (unless he/she is brought in under the "Known Player" Rule, in which case, he/she will shoot under the handicapped race grid). When a player with an established handicap plays a new player, his/her established handicap will be counted towards the "25 Rule". After this match, his/her handicap will be subject to the same criteria as all other players, and will be evaluated based on his/her performance in subsequent league matches.
(NOTE: The handicapping formula developed by The Association for P.O.O.L., Inc. is copyrighted, and as such, is proprietary property belonging to The Association. While players are entitled to a cursory explanation of how the system works, under no circumstances will they be provided with documentation of the Association's proprietary computer algorithms).
Score Keeping
A league score sheet must be completed for every match played. As this is the vehicle that determines your handicap, it is extremely important that these forms be completed accurately and neatly. Information from each player's score sheet must be transferred to the League Summary Sheet unless other arrangements have been made with your League Director. Make sure either the Team Captain or a team player signs the sheet before leaving. Once the sheets have left the league location, they are final.
As a rule, each team should assign a score keeper; however, there are some cases where one person keeps score for both teams. In this case, these are the scores that will be accounted for without dispute. It is a matter of courtesy during league play that a player never keeps his/her own score because of their need to be able to concentrate on the game.
However, after a player shoots, it is suggested that they keep score for the next team player. (NOTE: Your league report sheets are the result of your paperwork. If there are make-up matches or players to add/drip off of your team they should be noted here. If there are players with no "Player ID#s", write it out in a note to the league office and put it in your team folder so it can be properly taken care of. Make sure you have first and last names, along with the player's ID# on the sheet. This allows us to cross reference the player if needed).
The following are the categories noted on your score sheet:
"COMPLETE" - Every time that a player completes a skill shot, it should be marked on his/her side of the score sheet at "Complete". If the player completes the shot on a skill level and scratches, it is still marked as a "Complete". If a player completes a shot on a skill level and other balls go in, it is still recorded as one (1) "Complete" and all of the balls stay down.
"MISS" - Every time that a player misses a shot, it is recorded as a "MISS". If a player misses and pockets one of his/her opponent's balls, it is still marked as a "MISS" and the opponent's ball(s) stays down. If the player misses and pockets one of his/her balls, it is spotted, unless you are playing on a coin-operated table. In this case, the ball stays down and is marked as a "MISS" for the player.
"DEF" (Defense) - If a player announces that he/she is playing a defensive shot, it is marked as such on the score sheet. For more information, refer to the definition in the previous portion of the rule book.
"MOB" (Made on Break) - This is the number of balls made on the break at the beginning of each game. Mark the appropriate number in this area on the score sheet. If a player does no make any balls on the break, nothing is marked. Do not mark a completion or miss for the break as the computer automatically counts the balls at the end of each match.
"LOT" (Left on Table) - This column refers to the number of balls that a player has left on the table after his/her opponent has won the game. After each game, the person that lost, in most cases, has balls of their category left on the table. Add the number and mark it in this column. (NOTE: If a game has an early 8-ball, there will be balls left on the table for both the winner and the loser.)
"GAMES" - This column refers to the number of games you have won (1 through 9) and/or lost (1 through 9). After each game, mark whether the player won or lost that game. (NOTE: On your League Summary Sheet, this is listed as "WON" and "LOST").
"MATCH" - After the appropriate number of games have been played for the total match, the player who won needs to be marked in the appropriate box, as well as the player who lost. Place a "W" or and "L" in the appropriate box, not the number of games won or lost.
"TIME-OUTS" - This is conveniently placed on the score sheet to allow you to keep count of the time-outs taken during each game. It may be helpful to cross out the game number as each game ends to minimize confusion over whether a marked time-out if from the current game or a previous game.
"RACE" - Use the Handicap Race Grid to determine the number of games you need to win the match. This varies, depending upon the skill level of the players involved. Simply mark the handicap and number of games needed to win in the appropriate area on the score sheet.
"NAME" - On your score sheet, please clearly print your player's first and last name as well as their player ID#.
Weekly League Summary Sheet
The League Summary Sheet is the document that is submitted to the league office from which data is taken for entry into The Association's computerized database. It is very important that each team's scores, as taken from the score sheets, completely explains the match. These scores must be legible so that our data entry operator can enter the correct information into the computer. There are areas for make-up matches to be documented, providing your location allows them to be played.
League Session/Playoffs
A league session consists of a specified number of weeks, meeting on a designated night and consisting of two opposing teams playing a specified number of consecutive matches. The winner of these matches will be awarded one (1) point for each match. Point accumulate over the course of the league session, the top teams and a "Wild Card" team will shoot in your divisional playoffs. The qualifying teams from these playoffs will be allowed to participate in the next "Titleholders" event. Because of the introduction of a "Wild Card" entry in the playoffs, everyone gets a shot to play "The Best of the Best". We hope to see you there!
Commentary on "Tavern Rules"
Across the country, there are thousands of owners of bars, taverns, nightclubs and small restaurants who have acquired coin-operated pool tables for use by their patrons. In these locations, the general rules of play are the same as those previously set forth in the "Handicapped Team 8-Ball" section. There are, however, some situations that arise that are unique to these coin-operated tables that must be addressed to provide for consistency of league play throughout our Association. Keeping this in mind, the general differences and the rules covering these situations are as follows:
"Slop" Shots - On coin-operated tables, generally speaking if you "slop" a ball in, you can't get it back without paying more money. Under our league system of play, if a player "slops" a shot in, he/she loses his/her turn, and the incoming opponent plays the cue ball from where it has come to rest. There is no ball-in-hand in this instance, and it is marked as a "Complete" on The Association score sheet.
"Defensive" Shots - When playing a defensive shot, if a player pockets one of his/her types of balls, he/she surrenders the table and the incoming player plays the cue ball from where it has come to rest. (NOTE: For scoring purposes, the shot is counted as a "Defensive" shot).
Lost Object Ball on the Lag - When lagging for break, if a player pockets an object ball, that player pays to get that ball back. Be careful, as you also lose the lag. (NOTE: When lagging for break, both players should use object balls).
"Scotch" Doubles 8-Ball Rules
Object of the game - "Scotch" Doubles 8-Ball is a game played by a team of two players who oppose another team of two players in a league match of handicapped 8-Ball. During the conduct of their league match, the two team players function as a single entity, alternating shots until a game is brought to conclusion. This league format has proven to be very popular throughout the United States and is an excellent way to introduce novice players to the sport. It's an ideal way for husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, or simply good friends to team up and learn how to play pool, as well as get out and have a good time.
The playing rules for "Scotch" Doubles 8-Ball are identical to those of The Association's Team Handicapped 8-Ball. The following provides additional criteria:
Team Structure
Each team consists of two (2) or three (3) players. Only two (2) players shoot during each match game. (NOTE: Team player combinations may not be changed during the match).
Shooting Procedure
During the course of a league match, the team players alternate shots until the game is brought to conclusion.
Continuation of Play
Teams shoot in the aforementioned manner until they have made all of their category of balls and legally pocket the 8-Ball, miss or foul. Every completed stroke constitutes a shot and the player's teammate must take the next shot in his/her turn. Alternating players continues from one game to the next, i.e., the player on a team that did not take the last shot in the previous game must shoot first (including the break) in the subsequent game. If a player shoots out of turn, it is a foul and results in cue ball-in-hand for the opposing team.
Time-Outs
Time-outs are not allowed. This is because the team is shooting as one player, and as such, they may continuously discuss shots and strategy throughout the match. There is a 45-second shot clock and the slow play rule is in effect.
Score Keeping
Score keeping is handled as if the team were one player. The standard Association for P.O.O.L., Inc. Team Handicapped 8-Ball score sheet is used.
Handicapping
Each combination to two players on a team is given a handicap. For example, if a team is composed of only two players, those two players will have one composite handicap, which is determined by taking the average of the two individual players handicaps. However, if a team has three players, each possible combination of those players is assigned a composite handicap. For example, a team consisting of Tom, Sharon and Mary would have the following composite handicaps: Tom and Sharon; Tom and Mary; and Sharon and Mary. These composite handicaps are used as if they were for one player and the match races are determined just as they are in team handicapped 8-Ball, that being by reference to the "Handicap Race Grid" printed on every Association score sheet.
Team Handicapped 9-Ball
Object of the Game - Team Handicapped 9-Ball is played with nine object balls numbered one (1) through nine (9) and a cue ball. On any shot the cue ball must contact the lowest numbered ball on the table first to constitute a legal shot. (See "Push Out" After a Legal Break for Exceptions). Once you have contacted the lowest numbered ball, any completions that follow allow you to continue your turn at the table. In 9-Ball, as long as you have contacted the lowest numbered ball on the table first, a completion of that ball and/or any other ball is a legal shot. The shooter does not have to call their pocket except as noted on the Handicap Grid. A player wins the game when he/she has legally pocketed their game ball or the 9-Ball. Good Luck!
Beginning Play
Choosing Your First Player
In Team Handicapped 9-Ball, choosing the first player is no different than in Team Handicapped 8-Ball. (Reference to Page 3 of Team Handicapped 8-Ball General Guidelines for Play).
Lagging for Break
Once you have selected your players, they must lag to see who breaks. The rules on lagging for Team Handicapped 9-Ball are the same as in Team Handicapped 8-Ball. (Reference to Page 3 of Team Handicapped 8-Ball General Guidelines for Play).
Racking the Balls for Team Handicapped 9-Ball
The object balls, numbered one through nine, are racked in a diamond shape with the 1-Ball on the foot spot and the 9-Ball in the center of the diamond. The Game Ball, which is the ball the higher handicap player is spotting their opponent, is to be placed in the rack wherever the player giving up the spot wishes. (NOTE: The 9-Ball is also considered a Game Ball but does not have the floating options the other Game Balls do and is always to be placed in the center of the diamond as noted above). Before the break, the 1-Ball also needs to be touching the two balls adjacent to it. If this is not the case, the person breaking can ask for the balls to be re-racked.
The Break Shot
The break shot is executed with the cue ball placed anywhere behind the head string. The breaker must attempt an "open break" by attempting to pocket a ball. When breaking you must contact the 1-Ball first.
Cue Ball off the Table
If the player breaking drives the cue ball off of the table, his/her opponent receives ball-in-hand anywhere on the table. All balls pocketed stay down with the exception of the 9-Ball or other Game Balls which are spotted on the foot spot.
Object Ball off the Table
Any ball driven off the table on the break including the Game Ball, stays down and the shooter's opponent has cue ball-in-hand anywhere on the table. (NOTE: If the 9-Ball is driven off the table it is to be spotted).
Continuing Play After the Break
"Push Out" After a Legal Break
The "Push Out", also known as "Roll Out", is allowed one time only on the shot immediately following the break. The player executing this shot must clearly announce their decision to their opponent before shooting or it is treated as a normal shot. To execute this shot you may shoot the cue ball anywhere on the table. The cue ball is not required to contact a rail nor is the shooter required to contact the lowest numbered ball on the table. Any balls pocketed on a push out stay down and count as a completion on your score sheet, with the exception of the 9-Ball or Game Ball, which are spotted. Spotted balls are not counted as completions in this case. Following the push out the opponent has the option to shoot or pass the shot back to the player who executed the push out. In this case, the player must accept the shot as set forth under the General Guidelines for Play. (NOTE: Scratching on a push out is a foul).
Continuing Play
After a legal break or legal push out, the player who has command of the table continues to shoot until they miss, foul or win the game. If this player misses or fouls, their opponent comes to the table and shoots until they miss, foul or win the game. This is continued until a winner is determined.
Skill Shot/Good Hits
In Team Handicapped 9-Ball, the general rule on skill shots and good hits are the same as in Team Handicapped 8-Ball (Reference Team Handicapped 8-Ball General Guidelines for Play, Page 5). The exceptions with 9-Ball are that the shooter must contact the lowest numbered ball on the table first to execute a legal hit. You do not have to call your pocket except as required by the Handicap Grid.
Bank Shots
In Team Handicapped 9-Ball, when shooting a bank shot, the shooter must call the pocket of the Game Ball on as required by the Handicap Grid. The shooter is not required to call the number of rails or banks the ball takes to successfully complete the ball in the pocket called.
The "Game Ball"
In Team Handicapped 9-Ball the Game Ball is always the 9-Ball for both players. There is also an additional Game Ball for the lower handicapped player, depending on their handicap. See the Handicapped Grid for details.
Shooting the Game Ball
Any player shooting the Game Ball or 9-Ball must do so under the requirements noted by the Handicap Grid. If the Game Ball or 9-Ball is pocketed and the player fouls, it is spotted. If the lower handicapped player "slops" in his/her call Game Ball, they continue shooting, but do not win the game. If the higher handicapped player "slops" in the lower handicapped player's Game Ball, he continues shooting and the ball stays down.
Spotting the Game Ball
See Team Handicapped 9-Ball section referencing "The Break Shot" and "Shooting the Game Ball" . For Tavern Rules, spotted balls are to be replaced with one of the remaining six balls available. (10-Ball, 11-Ball, 13-Ball, 14-Ball or 15 Ball).
"Slop Shot" on the Game Ball
If the higher handicapped player shoots a legal shot and "slops in" the lower handicapped player's Game Ball, that ball stays down. If this is done on an illegal shot, the Game Ball is spotted. If the lower handicapped players has the call Game Ball and "slops" it in, that ball stays down and the player continues shooting.
Combination Shots
In Team Handicapped 9-Ball combination shots are allowed and are a very popular method of winning a game or match. A legal shot must be executed (i.e. the player must strike the lowest numbered ball on the table) for the shot to count.
Defensive/Safety Shot
In Team Handicapped 9-Ball this is a very important shot. To play a Defensive (Safety) shot, you still must execute a legal shot by hitting the lowest numbered ball on the table first, and drive a ball to the rail. Other rules for these shots are consistent with those set forth in the General Guidelines for Play for Team Handicapped 8-Ball.
Fouls
The "Three Foul" Rule - there is no "Three Foul" rule in Team Handicapped 9-Ball.
Foot Foul - See General Guidelines for Play for Team Handicapped 8-Ball,
Bad Hit - See General Guidelines for Play for Team Handicapped 8-Ball, Page 7. (NOTE: With this rule, take into account that in 9-Ball the "category" of ball referred to in Team Handicapped 8-Ball rules is the lowest numbered ball on the table).
· Split Hits - See General Guidelines for Play for Team Handicapped 8-Ball, Pages 7 - 8 (NOTE: With this rule, take into account that in 9-Ball the "category" of ball referred to in the Team Handicapped 8-Ball rules is the lowest numbered ball on the table).
· Other Fouls - Reference should be made to the General Guidelines for Play for Team Handicapped 8-Ball, again taking into account that in 9-Ball the "category" of ball referred to in the Team Handicapped 8-Ball rules is the lowest numbered ball on the table. You should also check the section on "The Break Shot" and "The Game Ball".
Glossary of Commonly Used Pool Terms and "Slang"
"Bank Shot" - Shooting an object ball off one or more rails into a pocket.
"Billiards" - A generic term for all types of pool and carom games. The game of "billiards" refers specifically to games played on pocket less tables.
"Break" - The opening shot of the game. This occurs when a player shoots at the rack of balls with the intent of breaking them open to initiate play.
"Bridge" - A reference made to the position a player's hand takes on the table as he/she holds their cue stick.
"Bridge - (Mechanical)" - A device that extends the reach of the shooter.
"Call Shot" - A shot in which the player announces a specific ball to be pocketed in a designated pocket.
"Cheating the Pocket" - Playing the object ball into either the left or right side of the pocket to create an angle on the cue ball for position purposes.
"Cue Ball-in-Hand" - When a player has the cue ball-in-hand, he/she may place the cue ball anywhere on the table, except in contact with another object ball. The player may continue to adjust the position of the cue ball until the shot is taken. (NOTE: Using the cue stick to position the cue ball is acceptable but the leather tip of the cue sti
Shooting the 8-Ball 4ck may not contact the cue ball during this positioning. If any portion of the leather tip touches the cue ball, it constitutes a foul and gives the opposing player ball-in-hand).
"Double Hit" - When the object ball or cue ball makes contact with a ball more than once during a shot. A "double hit" of the cue ball with an object ball constitutes a foul if the double hit is caused by the cue ball rebounding off the object ball into the cue tip and bouncing back into the object ball.
"Draw Stroke" - A shot executed by striking the cue ball beneath the center line of the cue ball in an effort to put reverse spin on the cue ball so that it rolls in a backwards motion after striking the object ball. This stroke is usually executed for position play purposes.
"English" - A term used to refer to spin placed on the cue ball by striking the cue ball to the right or left side of the cue ball's vertical axis.
"Follow Stoke" - A stroke executed by striking the cue ball above its center line in an effort to impart forward spin on the ball so that it moves forward after striking the object ball. This stroke is usually executed for purposes of position play.
"Follow Through" - Accelerating the cue stick "through" the cue ball after actual contact in an effort to ensure that the cue ball follows a true course of roll.
"Foot Spot" - A point marked on the playing surface centered between the side rails and two diamonds from the foot rail.
"Foul" - An infraction of the rules which can terminate a player's turn at the table.
"Frozen" - Balls that are touching each other on the table, or touching a cushion are said to be "frozen".
"Getting Shape" - Good position on the next ball to be shot.
"Going in Clean" - The pocketed object ball drops into the pocket without touching another ball.
"Head Spot" - A point marked on the playing surface centered between the side rails and two diamonds form the head rail.
"Head String" - An imaginary line on the playing surface connecting the side rails at the position two diamonds form the head rail.
"Kick" - Shooting the cue ball into one or more rails in order to contact or pocket a specific object ball.
"Kiss" - When the object ball or cue ball makes contact with a ball to deflect its trajectory during a shot.
"Lagging" - A procedure for determining who shoots first in any match. To lag, each player places a ball behind the head string and banks it off the foot rail. The player whose ball stops closest to the head rail can elect to break. (NOTE: Contacting the head rail is legal).Pocketing your ball is loss of the lag.
"Miscue" - This occurs when the tip of a cue stick slides off the cue ball because of inadequate chalking, a defective tip, or misapplication of "English". A miscue could lead to a bal-in-hand situation for your opponent, especially if the miscue causes the cue ball to jump over any balls on the table.
"Miss" - Any shot that is not successfully completed.
"Object Ball" - The object ball is the ball that the shooter is attempting to hit, or any other ball that is of the player's type. In 8-Ball, "low-balls" are the type numbered 1 through 7, and "high-balls" are the type numbered 9 through 15.
"Position" - Intentional placement of the cue ball after a shot.
"Rack" - A device used to arrange balls on the foot spot to begin a new game.
"Run" - A series of consecutive shots that have been successfully completed.
"Safety" - A defensive move in which the shooter attempts to prevent his/her opponent from having a high percentage shot.A legal safety is defined as a ball making contact with a rail after contact with the cueball or any other ball.
"Sandbagging" - When a player is playing well below his/her ability in order to lower his/her handicap, he/she is said to be "sandbagging". This is a form of cheating and is not allowed in The Association.
"Scratch" - To pocket the cue ball, or for the cue ball to leave the playing area.
"Snooker" - A pocket game played on a 6x12 foot table with cue ball, fifteen red balls and seven colored object balls.
"Spotting" - Returning the balls to the table as specified by the rules of the game. The ball in question is returned to the "foot" spot.
"Stop Shot" - A shot executed with the intent of bringing the cue ball to a complete stop immediately upon striking the object ball.
OPPORTUNITIES
If you could see yourself in one of these positions, give us a call at 1-800-984-7665.
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