Fairfield-Suisun Pool League


FAIRFIELD-SUISUN POOL LEAGUE

RULES AND BY-LAWS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

SECTION           PAGE        TITLE

 

A                   1-3          BY-LAWS

 

B                   3-4          SPONSOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES

 

C                   4-5          TEAM CAPTAIN’S RESPONSIBILITIES

 

D                   5            LEAGUE ELIGIBILITY

 

E                   5            FEES

 

F                   5-9          RULES OF PLAY

 

G                   9            FORFEITS AND DROPPED TEAMS

 

H                   9-11         FOULS

 

I                   12           LOSS OF CURRENT SHOT

 

J                   12-13       LOSS OF GAME

 

K                   13           PLAYOFFS

 

L                   13-14       AWARDS

 

M                   14           POST SEASON SCHEDULE AND INFORMATION

 

N                   15           END-OF-SEASON PARTY INFORMATION


FAIRFIELD-SUISUN POOL LEAGUE

2020 WINTER SEASON

BY-LAWS AND RULES

(TO BE POSTED AT ALL BARS)

 

A. BY-LAWS

A1.       This league will be known as the “Fairfield-Suisun Pool League” and is governed by the six Executive Board members.

 

A2.      The Executive Board consists of the President, Secretary, Competition Secretary, Treasurer, Captain’s Representative, and Sponsor’s Representative. Positions hold a term of 1 year (2 seasons). The Sponsor’s Representative position is seasonal.

 

A3.      Duties of the Executive Board are to execute and oversee the organization and operation of the pool league. The Executive Board can change/add By-Laws; however, they must get approval from sponsors for those By-Laws and Rules pertaining to the sponsors.

 

A4.      The Rules Committee, consisting of the Executive Board and Team Captains, proposes “rules of play” changes and makes decisions on disputed matches at the Captain’s Meeting. All players present at the General Meeting, through voting, must approve any rule of play changes/additions. (This does not apply to By-Laws)

 

A5.      Any person nominated for office must have played in the Fairfield-Suisun Pool League for three (3) consecutive seasons, played the season just ending, and be a player of the new season. Additionally, their player fees must be paid during the first two weeks of the current season.

 

A6.      Voting for new officers will be conducted at the End-of-Season (EOS) party, by ballot (which you will receive as you sign in). The voting should be completed within one-half hour (if the party starts at 3pm, the voting will be conducted at approximately 3pm and completed by 3:30pm). NO ballots will be accepted after 30 minutes is up. The new officers will take over after the EOS party (see N1).

 

A7.      The Executive Board Members will receive compensation, as listed below, payable at the end of the season but before the start of the next season, via check from the Fairfield-Suisun Pool League checking account ONLY. Any and all supplies needed throughout the season to complete the job will come from this compensation, meaning NO additional funds will be paid out.

 

(1)               President: $.75 per total number of players for the season.

(2)              Treasurer: $1.00 per total number of players for the season.

(3)              Secretary: $.50 per total number of players for the season.

(4)              Competition Secretary: $6.00 per total number of players for the season.

(5)              Player’s Representative: $50.00 per season.

 

A8.      A Scotch-doubles tournament will take place at the EOS Party. $100 from the Treasury will be added to tournament fees collected and paid out accordingly to the winners. All player fees are nonrefundable once collected.

 


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A9.      Sign-up sheets will be available at the bars on Monday, 1 day after the previous season’s EOS party and the deadline is set for following Monday (7 days later). All Sign-up sheets will be picked up by the Competition Secretary the day after the deadline to set up the season schedule. Sign-up sheets must have the following required information to be valid: Team Name, Team Captain, Captain’s valid phone number, Host Bar’s Name, and at least one other player. Sign-up sheets not having the above information will not be accepted into the season schedule. Sponsor fees of $25 per team will be collected this same night. As an incentive to recruit more players, Sponsors who max out their tables 1 table = 2 teams, 2 tables = 4 teams, 3 tables = 6 teams) will be charged $20 per team. (see E1)

 

*A10.  League business will be conducted on Mondays to include, but not limited to, all Matches, Tie-Breakers, Play-offs, Team Captain’s Meetings, and General Meetings. (See M, Post Season Schedule). Another day may be used for emergency meetings, make up games (if allowed), etc..

 

A11.     League play will be on Monday evenings beginning at 7:30pm (regular time) and commencing no later than 7:45pm (regular time).

 

A12.    Once the schedule is posted for the season, NO teams will be added/or deleted.

 

A13.    Players may not switch teams during a season after they have played one game. Situations beyond a player’s control may be considered be the Executive Board on an individual basis.

 

A14.    Teams may not change locations once the sponsor’s fee has been paid. If a bar closes, then the wsteams have the option to find another bar to play at or discontinue play for the remainder of the season. If they find a new location, the Captain or Representative must get in touch with the Executive Board and let them know the new location for approval. If approved, a new $25.00 sponsor fee is required before play can continue. (See B4)

 

A15.    A new player may be added at any time during the regular season (except the season’s final two scheduled league matches) and must pay the current player’s fee to the host bartender before any games can be played. The Team Captain will be responsible for making sure this is done. If the new player has not paid, then all games played by that person will be forfeited. (See C7 & E2)

 

A16.    Updated Stats will be posted at the bars no later than Monday, prior to the next match.

 

*A17.  All funds will be secured/deposited weekly/biweekly into the league account. All expenditures will be made by league account check.

 

A18.    If a customer, other than those who are in the pool league, coaches or harasses a player, it is the responsibility of the bartender to take action. If it is not taken care of satisfactorily, then the offended Team Captain may lodge a complaint. Any complaints need to be in writing and brought before the Executive Board prior to the next match for final disposition. (See B7 and C6)

 

 

 

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A19.    Once a team has missed two (2) matches throughout the current season, it is the responsibility of the Player’s Representative to contact the Team Captain or the Team Sponsor, to inform them that the team will be dropped from the league if they miss one (1) more night. (See G3)

 

A20.    If a team signs up and forfeits the first three (3) weeks, they will be dropped from the league and their stats removed. All matches, prior and future, will become a “BYE”. (See G4)

 

A21.    The average of total games won (not matches), divided by the total number of games played, will determine division winners.

 

A22.    Anyone caught stealing funds from the Fairfield-Suisun Pool League will be removed from the league for the remainder of that season plus the following season. If that person was eligible for any Trophies or Prizes, they will not be eligible to receive them, whether they return the funds or not.

 

A23.    Unsportsmanlike conduct or slandering the league, players, or officers, at any league sponsored event by anyone associated with the pool league and their guests, can/will result in being barred from the league for the remainder of the season and the following season. This includes, but is not limited to, conspiring to change/alter the outcome of any game/match in any way, threatening language, aggressive behavior and/or fighting. This applies toward bar owners, bartenders, and staff. (See B3 & J10)

 

A24.    The Competition Secretary is responsible for picking up the Score Sheets. The Treasurer is responsible for picking up funds; both to be accomplished prior to the following Monday. If the Score Sheets are not deposited by Tuesday 2pm in the drop boxes, it will indicate a forfeit by both teams.

 

B. SPONSOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES

B1.       By providing Sign-up Sheets and sponsor fees, Sponsors agree to be bound by this season’s By-Laws. If sponsor refuses, then NO teams will be sponsored by that bar for that season.

 

B2.       The host bar will buy one round of drinks after the second set (halftime) for present pool players actively playing, for the duration of the season to include playoffs. The drinks will be those which the players are already drinking.

 

B3.       Sponsors are responsible for the conduct of their teams. Poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated and can result in loss of current game and players/team being dismissed from the league for the remainder of the season and the following season. (See A23 & J10)

 

B4.       If a team is removed from a bar due to circumstances beyond the team’s control, the team has the opportunity to change locations with the concurrence of the Executive Board. Once the Executive Board has concurred, the Competition Secretary will approve the new location. If not approved, the Competition Secretary will choose a location and it will be up to the team to contact the new sponsor to ensure new sponsor’s fees are paid. If no location can be found, then the team will be dropped from the league for the remainder of the season. (See A14)

 

 

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B5.       The table and all equipment (cue ball, pool balls, bridge, and rack) provided by the Host Bar, to be  used for league play, must be reserved for the home team’s use from 6:30pm to 7pm, and for guest

team’s use by 7pm (regular time) the night of play. If both Team Captains and the Sponsors agree, a different cue ball only may be used if provided by the bar. If, at 7pm, the table is being used by anyone else when guest team arrives, it must be relinquished to the guest team from 7-7:30pm (regular time).

 

B6.       Minimum clearance around all league tables will be not less than 36 inches (48 inches for new sponsors) at level from edge of tables. It is the sponsor’s responsibility to ensure all tables meet this requirement before sponsoring a team.

 

B7.       It is the responsibility of the bartender to preclude customers (non-FSPL players) from coaching or harassing a player. If not taken care of satisfactorily, then the offended Team Captain may lodge a complaint. Complaints need to be noted on the reverse side of the score sheet and be in written form to be brought before the Executive Board prior to the next match for final disposition. (See A18 & C6)

 

*B8.     Upon acceptance of the EOS Party, Sponsors agree to provide adequate space for the food prepared and provided by the catering service. The catering service will not exceed $600.

 

C. TEAM CAPTAIN’S RESPONSIBILITIES

C1.       Team Captains are responsible for the conduct of their team members. Poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated and can result in loss of current game, players and/or team being dismissed from the league for the remainder of the season and the following season.

 

C2.       Team Captains are responsible for reading and understanding these By-laws and Rules. Disputes based on not knowing the rules will be clarified and dismissed by the board.

 

C3.       The Home Team Captain, or Representative, will choose the table to be played that night. All tables are first-come, first-to-use. If no one from the home team is present at 7pm (regular time), then the opposing Team Captain, or Representative, will choose the table to be played.

 

C4.       Each Team Captain is responsible to follow the lineup procedures (see F26).

 

C5.       Each Team Captain is responsible for clearly writing down all new players and scores on the match sheet, and providing it to the bartender at the end of the match. The bartender will sign the score sheet to acknowledge receipt of fees paid, if any.

 

C6.       If a customer, other than a pool league member, coaches or harasses a player, it is the Team Captain’s responsibility to inform the bartender to take action. If it is not taken care of satisfactorily, then the offended Team Captain may lodge a complaint. Any complaints need to be in written form and brought before the Executive Board prior to the next match for final disposition (See A18 and B7).

 

C7.       It is the Team Captain’s responsibility to collect all player fees and provide said fees to the host bartender prior to any games being played. (See A15 & E2)

 

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C8.       It is the responsibility of the Team Captain, or Representative, not both, to attend the Team Captains Meeting and speak for their team. All others attending the meeting have no say.

 

*C9.     Upon completion of the match, it is the responsibility of each Team Captain to deposit their completed score sheet in a drop box NO LATER THAN Tuesday 2pm. Locations of the drop boxes are: Parkway Lounge and Harry’s Sportsman’s Lounge. Failure to provide by Tuesday 2pm will result in unavailable updated stats for all involved. Failure to provide after 1 week from match will result in both teams receiving 0 wins and 16 losses. (See G1)

 

C10.     Both Team Captains MUST work together to preclude a Forfeit situation.

 

D. ELIGIBILITY

D1.       League membership is limited to the bars/taverns in Fairfield, Suisun City and Miss Darla’s.

 

D2.      Players must be at least 21 years of age to play in this league.

 

D3.      Bars may have as many teams as they would like, but are limited to two teams per table.

 

E. FEES

E1.       Sponsor fees are $25.00/team. As an incentive to recruit more players, Sponsors who max out their tables 1 table = 2 teams, 2 tables = 4 teams, 3 tables = 6 teams) will be charged $20 per team. (see A9)

 

E2.       Individual fees are $25.00/player, paid to the Team Captain who is responsible to provide the funds to the host bartender prior to any games being played by the individual. (See A15 & C7)

 

E3.       Funds paid for all league sponsored events, by a sponsor or player, are non-refundable/non-transferable. The host bartender collects all funds and provides to Treasurer upon request.

 

F. RULES

F1.       Each match will consist of four sets; each set consists of four games. Games will cost no more than $.50 and will be split between players. Any additional table costs will be absorbed by the host bar. All practice games will be at the cost of the players.

 

F2.       No player may play more than one game per set. No player may play the same person more than once per 16-game match.

 

F3.       All 16 games will be played on one table, provided it is a normal coin operated bar size table, approximately 44”x88”. If the sponsor and both Captains agree, two tables may be used from the beginning of the match. Although, at 9:30pm both tables may be used if both Captains agree, without getting the host sponsor’s permission.

 

F4.       NO gambling is allowed. Players gambling during any league games/functions will be identified to the Host Bar and will banned from the league for the remainder of the season and next season.

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F5.       The game of “call pocket” will be played, not “call shot”.

 

*F6.     Banks, kisses, combinations, double kisses, caroms, rails, etc. need not be called or specified.

 

*F7.     Obvious balls and pockets do not have to be indicated. It is the opponent’s right to ask which ball and pocket if unsure of the shot. Bank shots and combinations are not considered obvious. When calling the shot, it is NEVER necessary to indicate details such as the number of cushions, banks, kisses, caroms, etc. (See F35)

 

F8.       Masse’ shots are not allowed – IT IS A FOUL. (see H15)

 

F9.       Intentionally jumping a ball to make a ball is not allowed – IT IS A FOUL (see H15).

 

F10.     The home shooter flips a coin; the guest shooter chooses “heads” or “tails”. The winner decides who racks and who breaks. A player cannot do both.

 

F11.     The table is always open immediately after the break, no matter how many balls of either group have been made. If a ball has been pocketed on the break, without any fouls being made, the “Breaker” continues to shoot. At this time, the “Breaker” may choose from either group of balls no matter what was made on the break. The shot selected and successfully pocketed confirms the “Breaker’s” group of balls. On the shot immediately following the break shot, the shooter must strike one of the balls from the intended group selected and successfully pocket the ball called. The shooter cannot strike a stripe to pocket a solid or vice-versa. This will result in a loss of shot. If a foul is committed on a shot to confirm balls, the offending player loses their turn and the table is still considered open, even if a ball is made. If the “Breaker” does not successfully confirm his group of balls by following the preceding, it is the opponent’s turn to shoot, at which time the table is still considered open. Once either player successfully calls and pockets a group of balls, the table is no longer considered open.

 

F12.     There are no neutral balls. Players must strike a ball from their group (or intended group) first.

 

F13.     Making the 8-ball on the break is a win, unless the cue ball scratches or a foul occurs (then it is a loss) (See J3).

 

F14.     8-ball off the table is loss of game (see J4).

 

F15.     The shooter wins the game when the 8-ball is correctly pocketed, all balls have stopped movement, and the cue ball remains on the table. Any moving ball interfered with after the 8-ball is pocketed constitutes loss of game. (See J1 & J13)

 

F16.     Fouls may be called only by “OPPONENT” or “GAME OFFICIAL”. A foul called by game official is not considered a foul until offended player accepts it as a foul. A foul is only considered a foul if it is called and accepted (see F29 & H2).


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*F17.   Any time a numbered ball is inadvertently moved, the ball can be placed at its former position (if offended player chooses), by the opposing official.

 

F18.     If a player knocks one of their group of balls off the table, it is a foul. The ball will be spotted on or as close behind the foot spot as possible. The opposing official will spot the ball. If there is no room behind the foot spot, then the ball will be spotted forward of the foot spot. (See H14)

 

F19.     If a player knocks one of the opponent’s balls off the table, it is a foul. The ball shall be dropped into the pocket. (See H14)

 

F20.    If cue ball, at any time, is moved before the actual shot (including double hitting), it is a foul. This includes using the TIP of the stick (not the white ferrule) in a ball in-hand situation. (see H16 & H25)

 

F21.     If a scratch occurs following the opening break, opponent has cue ball-in-hand in the kitchen. Shooter must shoot at an object ball or rail completely outside of the kitchen.

 

F22.    In order for a rack to be legal, all balls must be confined within the rack with all balls as close as possible to each other prior to rack removal and must remain that way after removal of the rack or the breaker can request a re-rack. The two corner balls, farthest from the foot spot, will contain a solid and the other a stripe. If a re-rack is requested, the breaker’s teammate will re-rack.

 

*F23.  Once the balls are racked for a game, there will be coaching of the shooters allowed on a one (1) time per game basis. Coaching will be limited to ONE MINUTE and must be requested by the shooter. The shooter must make it clear to the opponent that he/she is requesting a coach (not time out) so the opposing team can keep track of the time. The person requested as coach must be a member of the shooter’s team. Under no circumstances will the coach be allowed to touch or reposition any balls remaining on the table nor position the cue ball in a ball-in-hand situation. (See H28 & J7)

 

F24.    Once the team members’ names are posted on the score sheet for play of the set, NO player changes may be allowed, unless both Captains agree that a lineup error has been made, or because someone may have to leave (on an emergency basis). Names on subsequent sets may be altered prior to the start of that set.

 

F25.    A set has not officially started until the coin has been tossed for the first game of that set.

 

F26.    The following format will be used to determine order of play. This format helps to ensure players will not play an opposing player twice in one evening. It is advised to use a pencil in case of errors.

 

a.      Sets One and Three: Visiting Team determines their lineup first. Home Team takes the visitor’s lineup and writes theirs however they wish.

b.      Sets Two and Four: Home Team determines their lineup first. Visiting Team takes the home team’s lineup and writes theirs however they wish.

 


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NOTE: This should be done one set at a time, just before each set unless otherwise agreed by Team Captains.

 

F27.    Players may practice on an unused table, providing they are not currently playing a league game.

 

*F28.  No harassing will be allowed. If this happens, one warning by the official of the game will be given. A second offense will result in a foul, ball-in-hand.

 

F29.    The Team Captains or representatives, not presently shooting a game and captain appointed, will officiate the game and call fouls. If the official calls a foul, it is the offended shooters choice to accept the foul or play on. Players of the game may also call fouls. A foul does not exist if it is not called and accepted (See F16 & H2).

 

F30.    In the event of a dispute, a decision must be rendered before the next shot is taken. Once the next player shoots, all disputes are of no consequence. The two officials of the game or the two shooters only should resolve disputed calls. If the two officials or shooters of a game cannot come to a satisfactory agreement, then a written complaint may be made (on the reverse side of scoresheet) prior to the next match resulting in a Captain’s meeting to be called at a later date to decide the outcome.

 

F31.     CUE BALL-IN-HAND BEHIND THE HEADSTRING: This applies when a foul is committed during the opening break. The incoming player places the cue ball anywhere behind the head string and shoots at any object ball that is completely out of the kitchen.  If the incoming player places the cue ball on or beyond the head string and takes the shot, it is a foul. If the shooter’s teammate warns them, it is a coaching foul. When the cue ball is in-hand behind the head string, it remains in-hand until the player drives the cue ball past the head string by striking it with his cue tip. The cue ball may be ADJUSTED by the player's hand or cue (not cue tip) so long as it remains in-hand. Once the cue ball is in play (as stated above), the player may not impede it in any way; to do so is a foul. If, with cue ball in-hand behind the head string and while the shooter is attempting a legitimate shot, the cue ball accidentally hits a ball behind the head string, and the cue ball crosses the line, it is a foul. (See H7, H21, H22 & H24)

 

F32.    CUE BALL-IN-HAND NOT BEHIND THE HEADSTRING: Whenever a foul is committed and called by the opponent or referee (other than on the opening break), the cue ball is considered ball in-hand. Placement of the cue ball can be anywhere on the table providing it does not move or interfere with the placement of any numbered balls remaining on the table. (see H21)

 

F33.    OBJECT BALL FROZEN TO CUSHION OR CUE BALL: An object ball is not considered frozen to a rail unless it is examined and announced as such by either the referee or one of the players prior to that object ball being involved in a shot. This rule applies to any shot where the cue ball's first contact with a ball is with one that is frozen to a cushion or to the cue ball itself. After the cue ball contacts the frozen object ball, the shot must result in (1) a ball being pocketed, or (2) the cue ball contacting a cushion, or (3) the frozen ball being caused to contact a different cushion (not merely rebounding from the cushion it was frozen to), or (4) another ball being caused to contact a cushion to which it was not already in contact with. Failure to satisfy one of those four requirements is a foul. (See H23)

 

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F34.    Four players constitute a team. There is no maximum number of players per team. A team may play with as few as two players, but with only two players, two games per set must be forfeited by the team with only two players. For each game played, there must be at least two persons per team present (1 player and 1 official). Games not having 2 persons present will be forfeited.

 

*F35a.            Legal Shot Defined.  On all shots except the break and when the table is open, the shooter must hit one of his group of balls first and (1) pocket a numbered ball of that group, or (2) cause the cue ball or numbered ball to contact a rail.

 

*F35b.            Safety Shot Defined.  For tactical reasons a player may choose to pocket an obvious object ball and also discontinue his turn at the table by declaring a safety shot in advance. A safety shot is defined as a legal shot. If the shooting player intends to play safe by pocketing an obvious object ball, then prior to the shot, it must be declared a safety to his opponent. If this NOT done, and the shooter’s object ball is pocketed, the shooter will be required to shoot again. Any ball(s) pocketed on a safety shot remain pocketed.

 

G. FORFEITS AND TEAMS DROPPED FROM LINEUP

G1.       If less than two players show up from one team, that team will forfeit the match. There will be NO rescheduling of matches unless due to scheduling error by the league or problem at host bar. The team being forfeited to shall receive nine (9) wins and zero (0) losses. The forfeiting team shall receive zero (0) wins and sixteen (16) losses. The attending Team Captain will ensure that a Score Sheet is completed indicating the opposing team’s forfeiture, sign the sheet, and place in drop box. (See C9)

 

G2.      Individual forfeits are considered a team win, not an individual win, unless the game has started, at which time it is considered a win and not a forfeit (the coin flip is the official start of the game).

 

G3.      If a team is absent from the league or has not paid all players fees or sponsor fees for a total of three matches during the season, that team will be dropped from the league. NO EXCEPTIONS. All games played remain the same. Future matches will become a BYE for the teams scheduled to play the dropped team. (See A19)

 

G4.      If a team signs up and forfeits the first three (3) weeks, they will be dropped from the league and their stats removed. All prior and future matches will be a “BYE” rather than a forfeit. (See A20)

 

G5.      There are NO unscheduled match forfeits of any kind during the last two (2) weeks of the season. If a team fails to appear, they will receive 0 (zero) wins and 16 losses. The fielded team will receive 0 (zero) wins and 0 (zero) losses.

 

H. FOULS

H1.      Any FOUL is cue ball in-hand.

 

H2.      The offended player must call all fouls as soon as they occur. The game official can call fouls, but it is the player’s choice to accept the foul or play on (see F16 & F29).

 

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H3.      ILLEGAL MARKING: It is a foul if a player intentionally marks the table in any manner to assist in executing a shot, whether by wetting the cloth, placing a chalk mark on the cloth or cube of chalk on the rail, using the tip of cue to mark surface or rail of table, or by any other means. If the player removes the mark prior to the shot, no penalty is imposed.

 

H4.      FAILURE TO CONTACT OBJECT BALL: Object ball or a ball from shooter’s group must be struck first.

 

H5.      FAILURE TO CONTACT A RAIL: A rail must be struck by a ball (including the cue ball) AFTER contact with a ball of the shooter’s group.

 

H6.      STRIKING WRONG BALL: Striking ball from opponent’s group first.

 

H7.      Inadvertently moving a ball. Illegally causing balls to move (includes pushing on cloth, bumping or slapping table, or jumping on the floor close to table). (see F17, F31 & H22)

 

H8.      TOUCHING BALLS: Strike, touch, or in any other way make contact with cue ball with anything other than cue tip in the execution of a legal shot. (see H20)

 

H9.      INTERFERENCE (FIRST OCCURRENCE – WARNING): If the non-shooting player distracts opponent (such as purposely standing in the line of sight for the shot, standing too close to the table or player, grabs for the cue chalk as opponent is in the execution of a shot, tapping stick, etc.) or in any other way interferes with play.

 

H10.    INTERFERENCE (SECOND AND SUCCESSIVE OCCURRENCES – FOUL BALL-IN-HAND): If the non-shooting player distracts opponent (such as purposely standing in the line of sight for the shot, standing too close to the table or player, grabs for the cue chalk as opponent is in the execution of a shot, tapping stick, etc.) or in any other way interferes with play.

 

H11.     SHOOTING WITH BALL IN MOTION: All balls must be motionless before taking the next shot.

 

H12.    ONE FOOT ON FLOOR: At least one foot must be on the floor when executing a shot.

 

H13.    Scratch of cue ball, or cue ball off table, opponent has ball-in-hand anywhere on table (behind the headstring, if on opening break). (see H14)

 

H14.    Any ball (object or cue) jumped/knocked off the table. (See F18, F19 & H13)

 

H15.    Masse’ or jump shots. (See F8 & F9)

 

H16.    Striking cue ball more than once (double hit) in the execution of a shot. (see F20 & H25)

 

H17.    Double Hits Fouls. When the distance between the cue ball and the object ball is less than the width of a chalk cube, the player must position their cue stick no less than at 45 degree angle, unless the
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referee can positively determine a legal shot has been performed. The following guidance may apply: if the cue ball follows through the object ball more than a ½ ball, it is a foul.

 

H18.    PUSH SHOT FOULS. When the cue ball is touching the required object ball prior to the shot, the same rule (H17) applies. It is a foul if the cue ball is pushed with the cue tip, with contact being maintained for more than the momentary time commensurate with a stroked shot (such shots are usually referred to as “push shots”). If the cue ball travels in the same direction and speed as the object ball, then it is a foul.

 

H19.    Unless otherwise stated in a specific game rule, a player must cause the cue ball to contact a legal object ball and then (1) pocket a numbered ball, or (2) cause the cue ball or any numbered ball to contact a cushion. Failure to meet these requirements is a foul.

 

H20.    Touching any object ball with the cue ball while it is in-hand is a foul. (See F17 & H8)

 

H21.    During cue ball in-hand placement, the player may use his hand or any part of his cue (excluding the leather tip) to position the cue ball. When placing the cue ball in position, any forward stroke motion contacting the cue ball will be a foul, if not a legal shot. (see F31 & F32)

 

H22.    If, with cue ball in-hand behind the head string and while the shooter is attempting a legitimate shot, the cue ball accidentally hits a ball behind the head string, and the cue ball crosses the line, it is a foul. (See F17, F31 & H7)

 

H23.    After the cue ball makes contact with the frozen object ball, the shot must result in either (1) a ball being pocketed, or (2) the cue ball contacting a cushion, or (3) the frozen ball being caused to contact a cushion (not merely rebounding from the cushion it was frozen to), or (4) another object ball

being caused to contact a different cushion to which it was not already in contact with. Failure to satisfy one of those four requirements is a foul. (See F33)

 

H24.    Once the cue ball is in play, the player may not impede it in any way; to do so is a foul.

 

H25.    If the cue ball, at any time, is moved before the actual shot, it is a foul. (See F20 & H16)

 

H26.  Split Shots. Contacting a solid and stripe (or the intended ball and the 8-ball) simultaneously.

 

*H27.  Failing to verbally call nonobvious shots. (See F6)

 

H28.    Coaching. Advising a player on how to execute a shot, directly or indirectly (i.e. side conversation). (See J7)

 

*H29.  A second occurrence will result in the loss of the game by the offending team. A player may not be advised of any rules unless they request a rule interpretation.

 

H30.    Advising a player to place a ball-in-hand behind the head string is coaching.

FSPL, WINTER 2020                                                                                                                       PAGE 12

 

I. LOSS OF CURRENT SHOT

I1.       Fouling.

 

I2.       Not pocketing intended ball in called pocket.

 

I3.       Cell phone use (1st time) lasting beyond 15 seconds while playing a game (unless a life and death situation exists).

 

I4.       NO LOSS/NO FOUL: On the opening break, four balls (one may be cue ball) must be driven to the rail on the break. Otherwise, the opposing player has the option to have offending shooter re-rack with offended player breaking OR re-rack and let offending player break again.

 

I5.       Calling and executing a “safety” or “safe shot” shot.

 

I6.       Scratch of the cue ball while shooting the 8 ball is loss of shot, and ball in hand for your opponent, if the 8 ball remains on the table. Pocketing both cue ball and 8 ball on same shot it is a loss.

 

J. LOSS OF GAME

J1.       Fouling when pocketing 8-ball. (See F13, F14 & F15)

 

J2.      Pocketing the 8-ball prior to pocketing all of the shooter’s group. Pocketing the 8-ball on the same stroke as the last ball of your chosen group is also a loss of game.

 

J3.      Pocketing both the 8-ball and the cue ball on the break. (See F13)

 

J4.      Jumps 8-ball off the table at any time. (See F14)

 

J5.      Pocketing the 8-ball after cue ball contacting opponent’s group of balls.

 

J6.      Pockets 8-ball in any pocket other than the intended pocket.

 

J7.      Coaching and/or harassment (2nd occurrence per game). (See F23, F28 & H28)

 

J8.      Your opponent beats you.

 

J9.      Cell phone use (2nd time) lasting beyond 15 seconds while playing a game (unless a life and death situation exists).

 

J10.     The throwing of items (chalk, cues, etc.) will not be tolerated and will result in the loss of current game. (See A23 & B3)

 

J11.     The breaking down of cues, during a match, will result in the loss of the current game.

 

J12.     Any moving ball interfered with after the 8-ball is pocketed constitutes loss of game.

FSPL, WINTER 2020                                                                                                                       PAGE 13

 

J13.     The touching of the table by the opponent, regardless of where on the table, while balls are still in motion will result in the loss of current game. This includes reaching into the pocket for any reason. (See F15 & J1)

 

K. PLAYOFFS

K1.       QUALIFICATION: To qualify to participate in the playoffs as an active shooter, a player must have played 33-1/3% of available games. (i.e., 15 weeks of scheduled matches, X 4 games are available per person per week = 60 games = 20+ games played. 16 weeks X 4 games = 64 games = 22+ (21.3) games played.

 

K2.       Upon completion of the regular season, the General Membership (Executive Board, Players, and Sponsors) meeting will be held on the following Monday (if not a holiday). The week following the General Membership meeting, any tie breakers for 1st thru 8th places will be played (race to 9) to see who will continue to the play-offs (home team will be determined by a flip of a coin). The Top 8 teams, in each division, will comprise the playoffs according to the grid at attachment 1. No play-offs will begin until all tie-breaker matches have been played and winners have been determined. Playoffs will commence the Monday following tie-breaker matches, utilizing the attached format. If there are no ties, Playoffs will commence the week following the General Membership Meeting (if not a holiday).

 

K3.       The Sponsor of the Grand Champion team will receive the “Mike Ramsey Memorial Trophy” at the awards ceremony. This trophy will be kept in their establishment until the end of the following season. The trophy will receive an engraved plate indicating the winner’s team name, season, and sponsor. At the conclusion of each season, an Executive Board member will retrieve the trophy from the previous season’s host bar, verify any damage and report it to the host bar for repairs, and prepare it for presentation to the current winners at the EOS party. No other trophies are given out for the playoffs.

 

L. AWARDS

L1.       ELIGIBILITY FOR ANY AWARDS: A player must have played at least half of the available games of the season. (i.e., 15 weeks of scheduled matches, X 4 sets = 60 games available = 30+ games played. 16 weeks X 4 games = 64 games available = 32+ games played.

 

L2.       “TABLE RUN” is to run all the balls of your group and the 8-ball, as follows:

Situation 1: Player ‘A’ breaks and then runs the table of their chosen group of balls, without missing any shots, and correctly pockets the 8-ball (a run of 8 balls).

 

Situation 2: Player A breaks, but does not run the table. Player B qualifies for a Table Run if: (1) All 7 balls of their group are still on the table; (2) It must be player B’s first turn to shoot; and (3) Player B must run the table of their group of balls and correctly pocket the 8-ball (a run of 8 balls).

 

L3.       MOST IMPROVED PLAYER”: New player’s starting average is the 10-game point. Seasoned player’s start at last qualifying average. Final league average MINUS starting average = Improvement.


FSPL, WINTER 2020                                                                                                                       PAGE 14

 

L4.       AWARDS WILL BE PRESENTED AS FOLLOWS:

Grand Champions Playoff Winners Mike Ramsey Perpetual Trophy (kept at sponsor’s bar)

Championship Medallion to each qualifying team member

1st Place Team Members – Div A & B                     Trophies                  1st Place Sponsor Plaque – Div A & B

2nd Place Team Members – Div A & B                    Trophies                  2nd Place Sponsor Plaque – Div A & B

3rd Place Team Members – Div A & B                    Trophies                  3rd Place Sponsor Plaque – Div A & B

Most Improved Male & Female – Div A & B          Trophies

Top Male & Female Shooter – Div A & B              Trophies & $50

Table Run                                                                   Trophy

8-Ball Break                                                               Certificate & Pin       Trophy (Person(s) with most)

         Note: A player can not qualify for “Most Improved” and “Top Shooter” in the same season.          

 

Players qualifying for more than one trophy in a category will have the (#) added to the trophy plaque (i.e. M. Ramsey has Table Runs on 1 Oct, 15 Nov, and 1 Dec. The plaque will read: “Table Run (3)”)

 

M. POST-SEASON SCHEDULE

The Post-Season Schedule will be as follows (holidays will alter schedule):

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT

 

Last Week of Regular Season

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Meeting

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Tie-Breakers (if needed)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Play-offs (Week 1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Quarterfinals)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Play-offs (Semifinals)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Play-offs (Finals – Championship Match)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sign-up Sheets will be at Sponsors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

End-of-Season Party

Deadline to Sign Up Teams

Pick Up Signups & Sponsor Fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Team Packets to Sponsors

 

 

 

Start of New Season

 

 

 

 

 

 

If NO tie-breakers, play-offs will commence on this date, and remaining events will be adjusted up accordingly.

 


FSPL, WINTER 2020                                                                                                                       PAGE 15

 

N. END-OF-SEASON PARTY

N1.   Voting for new officers will commence at 3pm and be completed by 3:30pm (see A6).

 

N2.   Players running for office (listed on ballot) will not be positioned near or in close proximity to the ballot box. If the individual on the ballot is a current officer running for reelection, that person will not be responsible for the receiving or counting of the ballots.

 

N3.   The location of the EOS Party will be chosen as stated below (date in parenthesis indicates last date hosting the party). If the Primary Sponsor refuses to host the EOS Party, the Alternate Sponsor will be contacted. This procedure will continue until a Sponsor accepts.

 

N4.   All Sponsors, whether accepting or refusing to host the EOS Party will be moved to the bottom of the Active listing. Sponsors who become inactive are moved to the Inactive listing. Upon returning, they are added to the bottom of the Active Listing. Sponsors who have a team dropped from the league are moved to the bottom of the Active listing and are ineligible to host the current season’s EOS Party.

 

*N5. SPONSORS:

Primary -        Harry’s Sportsman’s Lounge (May 2017)              INACTIVE

Alternate -    Lounge 707 (Jan 2014)                                            Sgt Pepper’s (Sep 2016)

                        Alfie’s Limelight (Sep 2018)                                               Cloud 9 (Jan 2018)

                        Miss Darla’s Lounge                                                  Ding’s Lounge (86’d from FSPL)

                        Bandwagon (Apr 2019)                                             Jack’s Bar & Grill (Mar 2016)

                        Parkway Lounge (Dec 2019)

 

 

*N6.    Upon acceptance of the EOS Party, Sponsors agree to provide adequate space for the food prepared and provided by the catering service. The catering service will not exceed $600.

 

N7.      Reimbursement for alcohol will be based on a tally of tickets received by the bartender, to be verified by an Executive Board member (not to exceed $600).

 

*N8.    Raffle prizes are to be won by ACTIVE pool players of the season being celebrated. Non-players attempting to claim prizes will not be allowed to do so, and the ticket will become null and void. Active players MUST BE PRESENT to win and will be limited to one prize. Active players will print their name on the back of the deposited prize ticket. Blank tickets will NOT be awarded a prize.

 

*N9.    Raffles/fundraising, not pertaining to FSPL, is prohibited.

 

Attachments: 1

-         F.S.P.L. Play-off Grid

 

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