Sports and Billiards Association 2004 Rules - Sports and Billiards Association

League Structure General Rules 8-Ball Rules “Bar-Room” Rules 9-Ball Rules 10-Ball Rules 7-Ball Rules No-Fear Rules Glossary of Terms
Letter from the President

Dear SBA Member:

On behalf of the Sports and Billiards Association, I would like to welcome you to the wonderful sport of Billiards and our community. The SBA has worked hard to design a League format centered on the unique needs of the varying player communities and we are sure that you will be pleased.

This manual contains virtually everything you will need to know to excel at the sport of billiards, through SBA League play. The SBA is unique in that we allow virtually any modification to these rules, to meet the specific needs of the player community within which a sanctioned SBA league is operating. So please familiarize yourself with both the contents of this manual, as well as the local bylaws, provided by your league operator.

The SBA has been voted the best billiard league by current player members and I’m sure you will agree. Regardless of how well you play, or what your billiard goals consist of, the sport of billiards will provide you with the highest level of enjoyment, competitive excitement and lifelong friends.

On behalf of the Sports and Billiards Association, I wish you and your team mates the best of luck, and good shooting; but most of all I hope you find the camaraderie and friendships the best experience of your membership.

Sincerely,

Ken Klosterman, President

Sports and Billiards Association

The League Structure Section 1

↑ TOP

The League Structure

The Sports and Billiards Association

The SBA is founded on principles designed to address various needs of players, for the players, and is incrementally modified by the players. The goal and mission is to develop a handicapped league for all skill levels where the players have an integral role in developing the league community. This is the only league where the players are afforded the opportunity to directly refine the league and have fun while doing so. This enhances our Mission, and is accomplished by constantly applying the Values at all levels of the organization.

Basic League Organization

The Team – A team consists of a minimum of five players, with a maximum of eight. All team members are responsible for verifying teammates are SBA members of legal age and are playing at skill levels that reflect their true ability. Each team has a captain.

The Team Captain – The Team Captain is an essential part of the team. Listed first on the team roster; they facilitate the exchange of information pertaining to the

league, posts information at the teams host location, collect membership dues and forward them to Local League Management on a timely basis, and ensure that the team is at the appointed place on time.

The team Captain also has the responsibility to ensures that all rules of the sport, etiquette, sportsmanship and eligibility are observed. They are responsible for following scorekeeping procedures. A team may elect a new Team Captain by a simple majority vote at any time. Local League Management must be notified immediately if a new Team Captain is elected. The only requirement is that the Team Captain have a phone.

The Division – A division consists of a number of teams (from 4 to 15) competing with each other in a set schedule.

The Advisory Committee – The Sports and Billiards Association has established this committee- Advisory Committee —to assist with rules and handicaps. The Advisory Committee will normally consist of a number of highly skilled members who are familiar with SBA league play.

Transferability – SBA membership is transferable to wherever an SBA sanctioned League exists with no transfer fee. The Player Committee is probably the most important part of the Sports and Billiards Association. The Player Committee is elected by the players, and they hold a 25% vote in deciding new rules and other important factors that deal with your league. Once elected, these board of players will hold their position for three (3) sessions. Towards the end of that third session, The Sports and Billiards Association will send out the proper election forms to the players to vote again. A person sitting on the board (if re-elected) will be permitted to sit on the board again.

If there is no SBA sanctioned League at the new location, members should contact the SBA home office and every effort will be made to get one started.

Transferee’s must enter with the last known skill level. Memberships are nonrefundable and are not transferable from one person to another.

Fees

Annual SBA Membership Dues – All player members must hold either a temporary or a full membership within the SBA in order to participate in any SBA event. Sessions span the course of many months and current membership must be maintained in order to continue and remain eligible for play.

Temporary membership is maintained for one complete session and is extended to player members who hold a current membership in another billiard league. Upon expiration of the temporary membership the player must obtain a full membership to play in future sessions.

Full annual SBA membership is $15 per player per year and expire on the players anniversary date.

Weekly Match Fee – The weekly fee for match play is $30 per team, regardless of how many players played during the night.

Sessions

The SBA offers three types of sessions in 8-ball, 9-ball, and scotch-doubles formats. Sessions will be offered as long as the minimum number of teams are available:

a) 16 week session: Money session: Paid to 100% of the teams.

b) 8 week session: Money session: Paid to the top 50%.

c) 5 week “Trophy Dash” session: Trophy session: Given to the top 3 teams.

Scoring

8/9-ball: Matches are played between two players for a total of five matches per night. Each match is worth one point. A team can win a maximum of five points per night.

Scotch Doubles: Matches are played between two teams for a total of three matches per night. Each match is worth one point. A team can win a maximum of three points per night.

General Rules Section 2

↑ TOP

General Rules

Gambling

The SBA does not sanction, nor tolerate gambling. If allegations are substantiated, the player members involved will be terminated from the league immediately.

Age Requirements

The Sports and Billiards Association offers a variety of divisions to meet the needs of players in all age groups. In the continental United States (CONUS), players who are:

a) 17 and under may participate in the junior division.

b) 18 – 20 years of age may participate in any nightly division provided the location hosting the night’s matches must permit them to use the facility.

c) 21+ are may participate in any open division.

Byes

Based on the number of available teams, divisions may have a bye, or a bye may appear in a division because a team dropped out.

a) Three match points are awarded for all byes.

b) If a division begins with a bye, all efforts will be made to fill the bye within the:

a. First three weeks for the 16 week divisions

b. First 2 weeks for the 8-week division

c. The “Trophy-Run” (5 week) session are exempt; no teams will be allowed to fill the bye.

c) If a team drops out of a division, causing a bye to exist:

a. That team will be responsible for all dues for the remainder of the session and will not be permitted

to play until this debt is settled.

b. A bye will go into that position and points will be rewarded as a bye.

Forfeits

a) Nightly League play will start at 7:30 sharp. This is on a basis of real time and not bar time. Teams have a 15-minute window to start.

b) We joined to play pool and not win by forfeits. If a team has only four (4) players and will have to forfeit their last match, the opposite team has the option to select the player of their choice from the team without enough players to play twice. If a team has to forfeit two or more matches, only one forfeit may be covered and the remaining forfeits stand.

c) The forfeit rule may not be applied before the fifth (5th) match nor can it be used to play a player that has already played to avoid playing another player. Violation of this rule will result in forfeiture of all earned match point to be awarded to the opposing team.

d) If both Team Captains agree, a team match may be rescheduled for a different time (forfeit rule not in effect). The Sports and Billiard Association must first be notified before it is final.

e) Both teams are still responsible for full weekly fees.

Protests and Disputes

Only the Team Captain may submit protests and disputes to the SBA for review. The procedure for settling protest and disputes will be as follows:

a. If a dispute between two teams cannot be resolved by existing rules:

b. The two players and Team Captains will first attempt to resolve the issue.

c. If a resolution can obtained, it is recommended that the game be restarted. If neither team wishes to restart the game, the team Captain may complete a disputes and ruling form, and submit it along with the nightly score-sheets and a $10 protest fee

d. The SBA will review the dispute or protest and if a favorable ruling is

e. made, the fee will be refunded.

f. Protest forms will not be reviewed if received after the score sheets have been submitted.

Choosing the First Player

The home Team Captain will flip a coin, and the visiting Team Captain will declare ‘heads’ or ‘tails’ to decide who will declare the first player. Winner of the toss has the choice of declaring first or having the opposing Team Captain choose first. Whoever chooses first for the first match chooses second for the second match, first for the third match, etc.

Paying for Games

a) Coin-operated tables – Both players should split the quarters for their matches.

b) On time tables -On tables that are charged by the hour, the total charge would be divided between the two teams.

Splitting Matches—At the discretion of the team captains, it is permitted to split the nightly matches into two tables. This is typically done to expedite time. One member of the team will keep score on one match and a member of the other team will keep score on the other match.

Score sheets will be updated at the end of the matches.

Coaching (Time-Out)

Coaching is highly recommended. Players with a lower handicap learn from a coach, and the team should collaboratively strive to improve in this great sport.

Coaching gives the more advanced players a chance to help the newer players with their game under competitive circumstances.

a) Any player on the team may be the coach of a match

b) The opposing Team Captain must be notified who the coach will be before the start of the match.

c) Only the coach or the shooter of the shooting team may call for a time-out

a. If a time-out is called, it must be taken / counted

d) All time-outs must be marked on the score sheets.

Coaches are allowed to:

a) Call a time-out

b) Touch the table and or felt at any time

c) Disrupting the layout or touching another ball, is a foul.

d) Place the cue ball for a player that has a ball-in-hand situation

e) Touching another ball, with the cue-ball is a foul

f) Visually show the shooter how to perform a shot

g) Talk to the shooter while at the table

A foul will result if the coach:

a) Takes longer than 2 minutes per time-out

b) Marks the playing surface of the table

c) Remains in the playing area while the shooter attempts the shot

d) Talks to a player while at the table and has not called a time out

The maximum number of time outs are:

a) SL2 and SL3 – Three (3) per game;

b) SL4 and SL5 – Two (2) per game.

c) SL6 and SL7 – One (1) per game.

Adding/Dropping Players

Adding:

New players may be added to the team roster at any time during:

a) The first six (6) weeks of a 16 week session.

b) The first four (4) week of an 8-week session,

c) The first two (2) weeks of a 5-week session.

Before a player can be added to play for the night, the opposing Team Captain must be notified that you are adding or dropping a player before the team matches begin for the night. If a team attempts to add a player after the matches have started, the opposing team captain has the right to refuse to let them play. New players will be rated as follows:

a) Men without a handicap – SL4;

b) Women without a handicap – SL3

c) Player participates in another League – Existing skill level.

d) If a Team Captain brings in a player with a lower handicap than he/she really is, the player will play as a SL7 for the remainder of the session and forfeit the match played for that night.

Dropping:

Teams may drop a player at any time during a session.

Players should be dropped if:

a) The player becomes unreliable

b) Sportsmanship problems occur

If a entire team becomes unreliable, it is the Team Captains responsibility to notify the SBA immediately for a resolution.

Membership Cards

You must have your membership card on you during any higher level tournaments, you may be asked to produce proof of current Sports and Billiard Association membership in order to play. Players will be notified before their cards expire.

Division Roster

You may only play on one team per division. But this does not restrict a player to participate in multiple divisions.

Cheating

Any form of cheating will not be tolerated. If a player is suspected of cheating; the SBA will perform a strict review of the situation. The league reserves the right to permanently ban the player from the league, if the allegations are substantiated.

Team Skill Limit Rule

The total of the skill levels of the five players fielded in any team match cannot exceed over 26. A team playing fewer than five matches (forfeit) must prove that continuation would not have exceeded the 26. Any team that violates the 26-Rule forfeits all earned points to the opposing team. No more than two (2) skill level 7’s can play in one night.

No Professionals Allowed

No player, qualifying as a professional is permitted to participate in the SBA league. Sports and Billiard Association reserves the right to reject or cancel the

memberships of those individuals whom qualify as a professional as determined by:

a) any player touring professional in tournaments

b) Any player who holds a membership in any men’s or women’s professional billiards organizations

c) Accumulating tour points from any of professional billiards organization

d) Being a nationally known player, or otherwise being recognized as a billiards professional or entertainer

The Sports and Billiard Association and only the SBA reserves the right to rule on professional status of any member.

Equipment

Any piece of equipment designed specifically for pocket billiards is permitted to include:

a) Cue sticks

b) Bridges and cue extenders

c) Jump Cues

A player may use more than one cue stick. One for breaking , one for shooting, and one for jumping. Players may not change cue sticks or shafts unless their cue becomes damaged or broken. A player may change shafts or cue sticks between games.

Players are not permitted to break down their cue during a match unless it becomes disabled. If a player breaks his/her cue down, the action will be considered a forfeit, with match points going to the opponent.

Sportsmanship

As in any sport, good sportsmanship is expected and important, billiards is no exception. Repeated complaints against a player can lead to cancellation of membership. The following procedures will be followed

a) First (1st) violation – Verbal warning

b) Second (2nd) violation – Written notice

c) Third (3rd) violation—suspension for 1 session

Any violation after suspension will result in permanent termination of the violators membership. Sharking your opponent will not be tolerated. Sharking will include but not limited to talking to your opponent while they are at the table. Standing purposely in front of the table while your opponent is shooting. Once your shot rotation is complete, you must return back to your seat. Throwing any equipment (including cue sticks or game balls) or slamming game balls onto the table is considered an un-sportsmanship conduct and will not be tolerated.

Rules are Subject to Change

The Sports and Billiard Association reserves all rights in changing rules. However, no rules will be changed without first notifying all players. In order to maintain a league of the players, by the players, and for the players, players will always have suggestions and input on what they would like to see happen.

8-Ball Game Rules Section 3

↑ TOP

Object of the Game

Eight-Ball is a call – pocket billiard game, played with a cue ball and 15 object balls, numbered 1 through 15. One player must pocket balls of the either group of solid (1 to 7), or stripes (9 to 15). The player who pockets their group first and then legally pocketing the 8-ball wins the game.

Lagging

Players lag to see who wins the first break. A legal lag is defined as hitting the foot cushion and returning unobstructed to the head cushion (hitting or not hitting). The player closes to the head-cushion wins the lag.

A lag shall not be legal if:

a) The lagged balls make contact during the lag,

a. Re-lag

b) If the lag ball hits a side rail or scratches

a. Offending player loses the lag.

c) If both players foul on the lag

a. Re-lag

d) If both balls are not in motion prior to the first ball reaching the end rail.

a. re –lag

The winner of the lag breaks in the first game and from that point on the winner of each game breaks in the next game.

Racking

The balls are racked in a triangle at the foot of the table with the 8-ball in the center of the triangle, a stripe must be in one corner of the rack and a solid in the other corner.

Breaking

To execute a legal break, the breaker (with the cue ball behind the head string) must stroke through the cue-ball and either:

a) Pocket a ball, or

b) Drive at least four numbered balls to the rail.

When the breaker fails to make a legal break, it is a foul, and the incoming player has the option of:

a) Playing the table as is

b) Having the balls re-racked

The Breaker must attempt to make the hardest break possible, attempting to spread and pocket a ball. No soft breaking is allowed. Soft breaking with intent to hook or Snooker your opponent is considered a foul. If a foul exist on a break, your opponent has the option of a re-rack, getting the break, or playing the field as it lays. If the 8-ball is made on the break, the breaker wins the match, unless the breaker fouls. Note: fouls on breaking include cue ball off the table or pocketing the cue ball; sending another ball off the table does not constitute a foul. Incoming player has cue ball in hand anywhere behind the head string. On a legal break, the breaker must strike the first or second ball first. Any ball struck during the break other than the first or second ball is considered a foul.

After the Break

After the break, the table is “open” until either a solid or stripe group is declared. When the table is open, it is legal to hit any solid or stripe first in the process of pocketing the called stripe or solid. On an open table, all illegally pocketed balls remain pocketed.

One Foot on the Floor

At least one foot must be on the floor at all times while shooting.

Combination Shots

Combination shots are allowed; however, the 8-ball is not neutral and can not be used as a first ball in the combination. When the table is open, it is legal to hit a solid first to make a stripe or vice-versa as all balls are considered “object balls”, except for the 8-Ball. The table is open immediately after the break shot.

Call Pocket

The shooter must indicate clearly which ball he/she is intending for which pocket. It is the opponent’s right to ask for clarification if he/she is unsure of the shot.

When calling the pocket, it is never necessary to indicate details such as the number of cushions, banks, kisses, caroms, etc.

Any balls pocketed on a foul remain pocketed, regardless of whether they belong to the shooter or the opponent.

Balls off the Table

If any object ball is jumped off the table, it is a foul and players lose his/her turn, unless it is the 8-ball, which is a loss of game. Any balls other than the object ball, that are jumped off the table are to stay down, and the shooter may continue Shooting.

Pocketed Balls

Balls must remain in a pocket to be legal. If a ball goes in a pocket, but bounces back onto the playing surface, it is not considered pocketed. If it is the 8-ball, it is not to be considered as either a win or a loss. If it is the cue ball, it is not to be considered a scratch.

Fouls

In the event that a foul is committed, the opposing player is permitted to place the cue ball anywhere on

the table, with the exception of a foul performed on the break. (see section on breaking)

With cue ball in hand, the shooter may use a hand or any part of a cue (except for the tip) to position the cue ball. When a player commits a foul, they must relinquish their turn at the table. After the break, the cue ball must be behind the head-string.

Fouls include:

a) The players object ball in not contacted first by the cue ball. Any ball that

b) is in the players group( solid or stripe) is considered their “object ball”.

c) Neither the cue ball or an object ball contact a rail after the object ball is contacted.

d) The cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table.

* Off the table is considered any portion of the table along the side rails that are not covered by the felt is off of the table.

Jump or Masse’ Shots

Jump and masse’ shots are permitted if the establishment owner allows. A jump shot is defined as contacting the cue ball first. Scooping is not permitted and is considered a foul. Jump cues are permitted, but players may not use just their shafts.

End of Game

When the 8-ball is the legal object ball, a scratch or foul is a loss of game. Players must clearly mark the pocket that they intend for the 8-ball. Pocket markers are considered unlimited, except for chalk or money. Calling the pocket is permitted if both shooters agree at the beginning of the match.

8-Ball “Bar-Room” Game Rules Section 4

↑ TOP

Object of the Game

Eight-Ball “Bar Room” is a call – your shot billiard game, played with a cue ball and 15 object balls, numbered 1 through 15. One player must pocket balls of the either group of solid (1 to 7), or stripes (9 to 15). The player who pockets their group first and then legally pocketing the 8-ball wins the game.

Lagging

A lag shall not be legal if:

a) The lagged balls make contact during the lag,

a. Re-lag

b) If the lag ball hits a side rail or scratches

a. Offending player loses the lag.

c) If both players foul on the lag

a. Re-lag

The winner of the lag breaks in the first game and from that point on the winner of each game breaks in the next game.

Racking

The balls are racked in a triangle at the foot of the table with the 8-ball in the center of the triangle, all other balls must be set as solid—stripe—solid—stripe, etc.

Breaking

To execute a legal break, the breaker (with the cue ball behind the head string) must stroke through the cue-ball and either:

a) Pocket a ball, or

b) Drive at least four numbered balls to the rail.

When the breaker fails to make a legal break, it is a foul, and the incoming player has the option of:

a) Playing the table as is

b) Having the balls re-racked and getting the break

The Breaker must attempt to make the hardest break possible, attempting to spread and pocket a ball. No soft breaking is allowed. Soft breaking with intent to hook or snooker your opponent is considered a foul. If a foul exist on a break, your opponent has the option of a re-rack, getting the break, or playing the field as it lays. If the 8-ball is made on the break, the breaker wins the game, unless the breaker fouls. Note: fouls on breaking include cue ball off the table or pocketing the cue ball; sending another ball off the table does not constitute a foul.

After the Break

After the break, the table is “open” if a solid or stripe group is made. If nothing is made or both a solid or a stripe is made on the break the table is open, it is legal to hit any solid or stripe first in the process of pocketing the called stripe or solid, the combination must be called. On an open table, all illegally pocketed balls remain pocketed.

One Foot on the Floor

At least one foot must be on the floor at all times while shooting.

Combination Shots

Combination shots are allowed; however, the 8-ball is not neutral and can not be used as a first ball in the combination. When the table is open, it is legal to hit a solid first to make a stripe or vice-versa. The table is open immediately after the Break shot. All portions of the combination must be called to include definitive rails.

Ex: 14 into the 15 off rail in the corner.

Call Your Shot

The shooter must indicate clearly which ball and shot he/she is intending for which pocket. It is the opponent’s right to ask for clarification if he/she is unsure of the shot. When calling your shot, it is necessary to indicate details such as the number of cushions, banks, kisses, caroms, etc. (In proper order). Any balls pocketed on a foul remain pocketed, regardless of whether they belong to the shooter or the opponent. If another ball sits in or near the pocket intended, the shooter must declare “clean” or off that ball. If the shooter does not specify, it is assumed “clean”. If both balls fall, the shooter must specify that both balls will fall or it is considered a bad hit.

Balls off the Table

Pocketed Balls

considered a scratch.

Fouls

In the event that a “cue ball” foul is committed, the opposing player is permitted to place the cue ball anywhere behind the head—string and may shoot at any ball that is outside of the head—string. The object ball is considered outside of the head—string, if more than half (1/2) of the ball is over the imaginary head-string line.

With “Bar Room” rules, there is no cue ball in hand, the shooter must shoot from behind the head—string. When a player commits a foul, they must relinquish their turn at the table. After the break, the cue ball must be behind the head-string.

Fouls include:

a) The cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table

In the event that a table scratch occurs, the opposing player has the right to choose from two options:

A) Take “ball in hand” behind the head-string, or

B) Shoot from where the cue ball lies

Table scratches include: player fails to make appropriate called shot (combo, rail, carom, etc.), scoops the cue ball, touching cue ball accidentally, or any “outside” coaching without taking a proper time out. In the event that the shooter “intentionally” fouls, such as scratching to leave opponent with the 8-ball in the head-string, opponent may spot the 8-ball and then shoot from any where behind the head-string. This only applies to the 8-ball and not any other object ball.

Jump or Masse’ Shots

Cushions

Cushion impact shall mean clear and distinct contact with a cushion by the object ball. Incidental contact with a cushion as the object ball approaches the called pocket or cue ball approaches. The “contact” ball shall not be considered an “extra” cushion (s) that would otherwise disqualify a legal shot. Rebounding of the object ball in the “jaws” of the pocket before dropping shall not be considered an “extra” cushion.

Object of the Game

Nine-Ball is a rotational billiard game, played with a cue ball and 9 object balls, numbered 1 through 9. After a legal break, the lowest ball must be contacted prior to any other ball. If a player pockets any ball on a legal shot, they remain at the table for another shot, and continue until missing, committing a foul, or wining the game by pocketing the 9-ball.

Lagging

A lag shall not be legal if:

a) The lagged balls make contact during the lag,

a. Re-lag

b) If the lag ball hits a side rail or scratches

a. Offending player loses the lag.

c) If both players foul on the lag

a. Re-lag

Racking

The balls 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 remaining balls are in random order, racked as tightly as possible.

Breaking

The shooter must contact the 1-ball first and either pockets a ball or drive at least four balls to the rail. If the cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table it is a foul, and the incoming player has cue ball in hand anywhere on the table. If on the break shot, the breaker causes an object ball to jump off the table, it is not a foul and the player continues at the table. The object ball is not spotted unless it is the 9-ball. No soft breaks are permitted. The breaker must attempt the hardest break possible.

Continuing Play

On the shot immediately following a legal break, the shooter may play a “push out.” (See Rule for Push Outs).

If the breaker pockets one or more balls on a legal break, he/she continues to shoot until missing, fouls, or wins the game. If the shooter misses the other player begins their rotation. The game ends when the 9-ball is pocketed on a legal shot.

Push-Out

The player who shoots the shot immediately after a legal break may play a push out in an attempt to move the cue ball into a better position. On a push out, the cue ball is not required to contact any object ball or any rail. The player must announce the intention of playing a push out before the shot, or the shot is considered to be a normal shot. Any ball pocketed on a push out does not count and remains pocketed except the 9-ball. Following a legal push out, the incoming player has the option to shoot from that position or to pass the shot back to the player who pushed out. The player who pushed out must take the shot at that time.

Fouls

When a player commits a foul, they must relinquish their turn at the table. The incoming player is awarded ball in hand and may place the cue ball anywhere on the table. Fouls include:

a) The first object ball contacted by the cue ball is not the lowest numbered ball on the table

a) Neither the cue ball or an object ball contact a rail after the object ball is contacted.

b) The cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table

Balls off the Table

Ball off the table are to stay down except for the 9-ball, it is re-spotted and play continues.

Jump or Masse’ Shots

Jump and masse’ shots are permitted if the establishment owner allows. A jump shot is defined as contacting the cue ball first.

Scooping is not permitted and is considered a foul. Jump cues are permitted, but players may not use just their shafts.

End of Game

The game ends at the end of a legal shot which pockets the 9-ball, whether it is from a legal shot on the 9-ball or a legal combination.

10-Ball Game Rules Section 6

↑ TOP

Object of the Game

Ten-Ball is a rotational billiard game, played with a cue ball and 10 object balls, numbered 1 through 10. After a legal break, the lowest ball must be contacted prior to any other ball. If a player pockets any ball on a legal shot, they remain at the table for another shot, and continue until missing, committing a foul, or wining the game by pocketing the 10-ball.

Lagging

a) The lagged balls make contact during the lag,

a. Re-lag

b) If the lag ball hits a side rail or scratches

a. Offending player loses the lag.

c) If both players foul on the lag

a. Re-lag

Racking

The balls are racked in a “small” triangle shape, with the 1-ball on the foot-spot and the 10-ball in the center of the triangle. The remaining balls are in random order, racked as tightly as possible.

Breaking

The object ball is not spotted unless it is the 10-ball.

No soft breaks are permitted. The breaker must attempt the hardest break possible.

Continuing Play

On the shot immediately following a legal break, the shooter may play a “push out.” (See Rule for Push Outs). If the breaker pockets one or more balls on a legal break, he/she continues to shoot until missing, fouls, or wins the game. If the shooter misses the other player begins their rotation. The game ends when the 10-ball is pocketed on a legal shot.

Push-Out

The player who shoots the shot immediately after a legal break may play a push out in an attempt to move the cue ball into a better position. On a push out, the cue ball is not required to contact any object ball or any rail. The player must announce the intention of playing a push out before the shot, or the shot is considered to be a normal shot. Any ball pocketed on a push out does not count and remains pocketed except the 10-ball. Following a legal push out, the incoming player has the option to shoot from that position or to pass the shot back to the player who pushed out. The player who pushed out must take the shot at that time.

Balls off the Table

Ball off the table are to stay down except for the 10-ball, it is re-spotted and play continues.

Fouls

When a player commits a foul, they must relinquish their turn at the table.

The incoming player is awarded ball in hand and may place the cue ball

anywhere on the table. Fouls include:

a) The first object ball contacted by the cue ball is not the lowest numbered ball on the table

b) Neither the cue ball or an object ball contact a rail after the object ball is contacted.

c) The cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table

Jump or Masse’ Shots

Object of the game

7-ball is a rotational “fast” billiard game, played with a cue ball and 7 object balls, numbered 1 through 7. After a legal break, the lowest ball must be contacted prior to any other ball. If a player pockets any ball on a legal break, they remain at the table for another shot, and continue until missing, committing a foul, or winning the game by pocketing the 7-ball. The 7-ball does not count on the break, it is spotted.

Lagging

A lag shall not be legal if:

a) The lagged balls make contact during the lag,

a. Re-lag

b) If the lag ball hits a side rail or scratches

a. Offending player loses the lag.

c) If both players foul on the lag

a. Re-lag

Racking

The balls are racked in a “small” circle, with the 1-ball on the foot spot and the 7-ball in the middle. The remaining balls are in random order, racked as tightly as possible.

Breaking

The shooter must contact the 1-ball first and either pocket a ball or drive at least five balls to a rail. If the cue ball is pocketed or driven off of the table, it is a foul, and the incoming player has cue ball in hand anywhere on the table. If on the break shot, the breaker causes an object ball off of the table, it is not a foul and the player continues at the table.

Continuing Player

On the shot immediately following a legal break, the shooter must make a legal hit on the 1-ball. The push-out rule does not apply to 7-ball game rules. If the

breaker pockets one or more ball on the break, he/she continues to shoot until missing, fouls, or wins the game. If the shooter misses the other player begins their rotation. The game ends when the 7-ball is pocketed on a legal shot.

Balls off the table

Balls off the table get spotted on the foot spot, and play continues. If it is the cue ball, then it is a foul (see rules for fouls).

Defensive Shots

There is no defensive shots permitted in 7-ball. All shots must be in a good attempt to pocket a ball. If a player plays a defensive shot, it is considered a foul (see rules for fouls).

Fouls

When a player commits a foul, they must relinquish their turn at the table. The incoming player has cue ball in hand anywhere on the table. Fouls include:

a.) The first object ball contacted by the cue ball is not the lowest numbered ball on the table.

b.) Neither the cue ball or an object ball does not touch a rail after the object ball has been contacted.

c.) The cue ball is pocketed or driven off of the table.

d.) A player plays a defensive shot.

Jump or Masse’ Shots

All skill levels must call pocket on the 7-ball. If pocket is called and the 7-ball is made, it is worth 1 point. All other ball (numbered 1 through 6) are also worth 1 point. If there is a difference between handicaps, the lower handicap may take

away a pocket for the 7-Ball that the upper skill level cannot make the 7-Ball in. Depending on the difference between the skill levels, depends on how many pockets the lower skill level may take away. It is the lower skill levels choice of which pockets that they can take away. The pockets that are remaining are the only pockets that the upper skill level can make the 7-Ball in. If the 7-Ball is made in one of the take away pockets, it is then spotted—but it is not a ball in hand, unless a foul occurs.

Here are the number of pockets that a lower skill level may take away:

Here are the game points to win:

Skill Level Difference

End of game

The game ends at the end of a legal shot, which pockets the 7-ball, whether it is from a legal shot on the 7-ball or a legal combination. If the 7-ball is made on the break, it does not constitute a win, however, the shooter continues to shoot for pocketing a ball. The 7-ball is spotted and play continues.

Scotch Doubles Game Rules Section 8

↑ TOP

General Description

Scotch Doubles are played with the same description and rules as 8-Ball, “Bar-Room”, or 10-Ball. Please refer to the 8-Ball, “Bar-Room”, or 10-Ball Game Rules.

Once the initial “break” occurs to begin the match, players must remain in order till end of the match.

Dues for Scotch Doubles

The weekly fee for match play is $18 per team, regardless of how many players played during the nightly match.

Team Structure

Scotch Doubles team structure is as follows:

a) Teams have a minimum of three (3) players and a maximum of five (5).

b) Total team handicap cannot be over ‘19’.

c) Players play a maximum of two (2) games each,

d) No one can play all three matches.

Determining Handicap

Handicaps are determined by taking the average handicap score of both partners rounding up to the nearest whole number

“No Fear” Division (Non-Handicap League) Section 9

↑ TOP

General Description

This section will cover all formats on how to work this non-handicap division. All Players will play at the same level and will race for games. Each Section below will describe how each format will be a race to.

8-Ball

Each player will rotate through each member of the team. Each player will play a total of 5 games each for a total of 25 games. Totals will be added up each night for the amount of points each team will receive. All rules for 8-Ball apply (see 8-Ball rules).

8-Ball “Bar-Room”

9-Ball

Each player will play another two (2) games rotating through each member of the team. Each player will play a total of 10 games each for a total of 50 games. Totals will be added up each night for the amount of points each team will receive. All rules for 9-Ball apply (see 9-Ball rules).

10-Ball

7-Ball

7-Ball is not offered in the “No Fear” Division at this time.

Glossary Of Terms Section 10

↑ TOP

Glossary of Terms

BALL-IN-HAND: The incoming player may choose where to place the cue ball on the table before shooting any of his category of balls. In “Bar-Room” rules, the incoming player may position the cue anywhere behind the head-string (refer to head-string).

BANK SHOT: A bank shot is when a player drives the object ball to the cushion in the course of making the shot.

BREAK (Break Shot): Refers to the first shot of the game.

BYE: A bye is a missing team on a schedule. Schedules are always set up to an even number of teams. When there is an odd number of teams in a division, there will be a bye. For example, a 7-team division will be playing a 8-team schedule with a bye. If your team is scheduled to play a bye, that means you do not have a match on that date.

CAROM: A term used for glancing off one ball off another.

DEFENSIVE SHOTS: A defensive shot is a shot where the player at the table deliberately misses so as to pass his turn at the table on to his opponent. A safety (see SAFETY in these Definitions) is a defensive shot because the shooter had no intention of making a ball of his category.

DRAW: A method of stroking that causes the cue ball to spin backwards after contact with an object ball. The cue’s tip must contact the cue ball below center to cause the draw.

ENGLISH: A method of stroking that causes the cue ball to react to the right, left, top, or bottom after contact with an object ball or cushion.

ESTABLISHED SKILL LEVEL: Once a player has played in any league format and has proven themselves at a certain level.

FOLLOW: A method of stroking that causes the cue ball to follow in the same direction as the object ball when struck.

FOLLOW THROUGH: An important and desirable motion of the cue carrying through the area previously occupied by the cue ball.

FOOT OF TABLE: The end not marked with the maker’s name plate, or on tables with ball returns, the end to which the balls return (see Diagram of Table).

FOOT SPOT: A spot placed in the exact center of an imaginary line drawn across the pool table between the second diamonds from the foot rail (see Diagram of Table).

FOUL: An illegal shot resulting in loss of turn at the table and cue ball-in-hand for the opponent.

FROZEN BALL: A frozen ball is a ball that is touching either another ball or a rail. If it is touching another ball, it is frozen on that ball; if it is touching a rail, it is frozen on the rail.

HEAD OF TABLE: Opposite of the foot (see Diagram of Table).

HEAD STRING: The imaginary line drawn across the pool table between the second diamonds from the head rail (see Diagram of Table).

INNING: Consists of one turn for each player.

JUMP SHOT: A jump shot is when the cue ball is struck with the cue tip in a downward fashion for the purpose of elevating or jumping the cue ball over an impeding object ball to achieve a legal hit. It is a foul to jump the cue ball by “scooping” it over the impeding ball. See a local professional for more information concerning how to jump the cue ball legally. Please use caution if performing this shot, if the host location does not allow jump shots, please don’t attempt the shot.

KICK SHOT: A kick shot is when a player drives the cue ball to a cushion before contacting the object ball.

LAG: Method used to start a match. Players simultaneously shoot a ball from behind the head string, banking it off the foot rail and back to the head of the table. Striking the side rails or any pocket results in loss of the lag. The closest ball to the head rail wins. It is permissible to strike the head rail. If the lagged balls make contact with each other, lag over.

MASSE’ SHOT: A masse’ shot is when a player attempts to curve the cue ball around a ball in order to strike an intended ball. A masse’ is accomplished by raising the butt end of the cue and using either right or left English. Even raising the butt end of the cue a little and using right or left English will cause the cue ball to curve a little. The more the cue is raised, the more the cue ball will curve. Extreme masse’ shots, improperly executed, can cause damage to pocket billiard equipment. Please use caution if performing this shot, if the host location does not allow masse’ shots, please don’t attempt the shot.

MISCUE: A miscue occurs when the cue’s tip does not hit the cue ball squarely enough and glances off without driving the cue ball on its desired course, often caused by not enough chalk on the tip, an improperly shaped tip or an attempt at too much English.

OBJECT BALL: The object ball is the ball you are trying to hit, or any other ball of your category.

PUSH-OUT: The push-out was developed to take some of the luck out of pool. Push-outs can only be used immediately after the break by the breaker if he pocketed a ball on the break, or by the incoming player if no balls were pocketed on the break. A player can elect to push-out if he doesn’t like the shot he is faced with. Pushing-out involves announcing the intent to push-out, and then shooting the cue ball to a new position. The shooter does not need to make a legal shot (driving a ball to a rail after a legal hit). The shooter’s opponent then has the option to shoot from the new position or tell the shooter to take the shot. Normal game rules apply from that point on.

SCRATCH: Pocketing of the cue ball or driving the cue ball off the playing surface and onto the floor.