General Rules / BCA
2009-2010
Official Rules of the
BCA Pool League
Our Goal
To create and improve opportunities for pool players of all abilities through fair governance and equitable policies.
Effective June 1, 2009
BCA Pool League
2041 Pabco Road
Henderson, NV 89011
(702) 719-7665
www.playbca.com
Copyright 2009 BCA Pool League OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
A Message from Mark Griffin
Welcome to the 2009-2010 edition of the Official Rules of the BCA Pool League (BCAPL). Our third version has limited changes but many improvements. The editors have taken great care to add several new features, including a comprehensive index, a table of fouls, and reference links for online viewing to name a few.
Speaking of our editors, on behalf of the entire BCAPL membership I want to extend my personal thanks to three individuals for making this book possible. BCAPL Rules Administrator Bill Stock, National Head Referee Buddy Eick, and Referee Instructor Ken Shuman invested countless hours over the past four years to create, maintain, and update this book. Their dedication to enhance your playing experience is as clear as the goal we so proudly display on the very first page.
Our organization has received widespread industry praise for breaking new ground. Mike Shamos, resident rules guru for Billiards Digest and one of pool’s most respected individuals, wrote:
“The Official Rules of the BCA Pool League are the most extensive set of rules in history, and for the first time they are accompanied by interpretive decisions. The “Applied Rulings” section deserves serious study. It is of course impossible to write a rule set that deals with every conceivable happenstance. Even the USGA rules don’t try to do that. Therefore, referees and tournament directors must be guided by interpretations so they can make intelligent rulings when new situations arise. I’m not declaring their rules to be perfect, but they try to be. The rules themselves and their interpretations have been given a great deal of thought, and the reasoning behind them is not hidden but is right there on the page. They’re also based on a great deal of experience with problems that surfaced in actual league situations. They don’t make the mistake of sacrificing the integrity of the game just to keep down the number of disputes that arise, which is a flaw endemic to league rules generally. I have the feeling that because of their logic the BCAPL rules just may become the dominant rules of the game.“
We are very flattered by Mr. Shamos’ remarks, and hope that you will also see the merit of our product. Remember, this is your book. There are over 60,000 players and league operators – without you, there would not be a BCAPL. Thanks to each of you for your loyalty and support!
Mark Griffin
CEO
BCA Pool League
ii OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS…………………………….1
DEFINITIONS AND DIAGRAMS……………………………5
GENERAL RULES…………………………………………………..21
8-BALL…………………………………………………………………..39
9-BALL…………………………………………………………………..44
10-BALL…………………………………………………………………47
ONE POCKET…………………………………………………………50
14.1 CONTINUOUS………………………………………………54
BANK POOL…………………………………………………………..60
WHEELCHAIR RULES…………………………………………..64
REFEREES, EVENT OFFICIALS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY………………………….66
APPLIED RULINGS……………………………………………….71
TABLE OF VIOLATIONS AND FOULS……………….103
TOURNAMENT RESULTS……………………………………105
iii OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Editor’s Notes and Acknowledgements
Changes in the text that are significant rule changes from the 2008-2009 edition are highlighted in bold and italics. New Applied Rulings are also highlighted. Other changes in wording from previous editions have been made to improve clarity. Those changes are not highlighted since they do not affect the substance or intent of the previous edition.
New features include:
􀂾 a comprehensive index;
􀂾 a table of fouls;
ô€‚¾ when viewing the document in electronic format, a comprehensive link system is now in place for quick reference.The notation “(AR p. xx)” appears after rules that have Applied Rulings associated with them. The page number of the associated Applied Ruling has been added to the notation.
The editors would like to express their thanks to Mark Griffin for his support, and to the players, league operators and referees whose comments and contributions throughout the past year are reflected in the ongoing evolution of the BCAPL Rules.
We encourage all of you to continue to offer comments and suggestions. The best way to have your voice heard is to send a detailed e-mail to Bill Stock at bill@playbca.com. Please use “Rules Comments” as your subject line. Because of the volume of correspondence, please do not offer your comments by phone.
Editor
Bill Stock, BCAPL Rules Administrator and Director of Referees
Technical Editors
Buddy Eick, BCAPL National Head Referee and Director of Referee Training
Ken Shuman, BCAPL National Senior Referee and Referee Instructor
To maintain a gender-neutral presentation, the third person plural-possessive pronoun form is used throughout the rules, even when referring to individuals.
iv OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Statement of Principles
These are principles that the BCAPL believes in, promotes, and uses to develop The Official Rules of the BCA Pool League. They are published here to help players, officials and administrators understand what the BCAPL believes comprises the spirit of the game. They are general statements and are not part of the rules themselves. However, if a situation occurs for which there is not specific guidance in the BCAPL rules, referees, officials and administrators may look to these principles to assist them in making an appropriate decision.
􀂾 Every player, referee, event official, tournament director and league operator should have equal access to the BCAPL Rules, Applied Rulings and event regulations.
ô€‚¾ It is more important that the game be decided based on the players’ pool-playing ability than by their knowledge of the rules. Therefore, upon request and within the guidelines of the rules, referees will assist players whenever possible, including helping players understand and interpret rules. However, players’ ignorance of the rules or regulations is not a defense against any penalties that they may incur under them.
􀂾 The BCAPL rules are for every player, regardless of talent, skill, experience or knowledge. Whether you are a first-time player or a seasoned professional, if you learn the BCAPL rules and follow them faithfully, they will help guide you to an enjoyable and fair experience. Similarly, no player may use their stature, level of experience, or knowledge to claim, impose, or gain an unfair advantage by improperly manipulating, circumventing or evading the BCAPL rules.
􀂾 We believe that the rules can never be too detailed, and that they should cover as many situations as possible. The BCAPL will make every attempt to provide as much information as possible to help ensure the uniform enforcement of the rules.
􀂾 There are some significant differences between The Official Rules of the BCA Pool League and other sets of billiards rules. Those differences are not accidental or unintended. It is improper to use any other set of rules as a reference or as guidance in reaching a resolution to any situation in BCAPL play.
􀂾 Players should not be penalized under the rules for situations or events over which they have absolutely no control.
􀂾 Luck is an inherent part of all sports, games and competition. It is neither possible nor desirable to use the rules to legislate all luck out of the game.
A Note about Sportsmanship and Communication
Good sportsmanship lies at the heart of any endeavor involving competition. In many games of pocket billiards, players meet on the table in a contest that takes place in an environment that is unique in sports in one significant aspect - players are often required to tell each other exactly what is about to happen and what their intentions are before they act.
Any referee or tournament director will tell you that many of the problems they have faced involving controversy between players could have been prevented if the players had been communicating effectively. Far too many disputes involve nothing more than whether or not a safety was declared or which pocket or ball was called.
The difficulty can often be traced to players who simply do not practice good communication at the table. We designed The BCAPL rules to reduce the number of disputes. However, it is impossible to control the issue completely with rules and referees. The solution lies with you – the players.
We encourage you to dedicate yourself to open and friendly communication during your match:
􀂾 When you are at the table, pay attention to how your shot appears. If you think there is a chance that your opponent might not understand your intentions, please call the shot.
􀂾 When you do call shots, please do so clearly. If verbal, face your opponent and make eye contact. If by gesture, make a clear and definite motion.
􀂾 When you are in the chair, pay attention to the game and to your opponent. Communication is a two way street! If your opponent is telling you what they intend to do, listen carefully and clearly acknowledge that you understand. If you do not understand, get clarification.
􀂾 Do not let personality conflicts affect your efforts at communication. It does not matter how you feel about your opponent – you must always commit yourself to open and civil conversation and communication during your match.Remember that your opponent has the right to know what you are doing while you are at the table. If you do not want to stop and answer questions, you can prevent that by communicating freely and clearly. As the person in the chair, you must remember that while you
have the right to know what the shooter is attempting, you cannot interrupt them after they are down on a shot. If you sense a situation developing in which you might have a question, try to ask it early. At the same time, remember that you cannot use the requirement of communication in an unsportsmanlike manner. You should know what a clearly obvious shot is. Do not ask unnecessary questions in such a situation. See the Applied Ruling for Rule 1.17 for guidance.
When playing call shot games remember that bank, kick, and combination shots must be called. There are no exceptions under any circumstances, regardless of how simple or obvious the shot may appear. There may be other types of shots that must be called as well, depending on the circumstances. Also, please be sure to communicate clearly with your opponent when playing a safety. The Applied Rulings have additional guidance for calling shots and safeties.
Good communication is simply good sportsmanship, which is required of all players. Please practice it faithfully and consistently. It will make the game more enjoyable for all of us.
vii OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Summary of Significant Changes for the
2009-2010 Edition
These are the changes that have affected the intent of the rules or that are most likely to affect play. Other changes clarify, but do not change, intent. Many new Applied Rulings have also been added. We recommend that you thoroughly review the General Rules, specific game rules, and the Applied Rulings.
􀂾 Cue Specifications, (d): phenolic tips not permitted on break cue.
􀂾 Rules 1.3, 1.4, 1.8, 1.39, and 1.41: deleted provision requiring mandatory loss of game/loss of match for subsequent violations.
􀂾 Rule 1.3.2(a): all earplugs prohibited, including passive earplugs.
􀂾 Rule 1.16: Shot clock changed to 45 seconds.
ô€‚¾ Rules 1.19 and 1.20 have been merged for clarity, and the “cushion attached to a separate rail” provision for a frozen ball has been deleted. If you use an object ball frozen to a cushion to satisfy the cushion contact requirement for a legal shot, it still must contact a separate cushion. However, the cushion it contacts no longer must be attached to a separate rail. Also see Applied Ruling 1.20.
􀂾 Rules 1.20 – 1.22 renumbered, Procedures for successive fouls moved from specific game rules to new Rule 1.22. Game-specific penalties for three successive fouls are still in the specific game rules.
􀂾 Rule 1.33.7 clarified to specify no restoration option, foul for disturbed cue ball and foul for disturbed ball in motion.
􀂾 Rule 1.40 reorganized and reworded for clarity. Penalty for game-winning ball involvement in 1.40 d-f is now loss of game (exception: penalty in 8-Ball relaxed on the break shot).
􀂾 Rule 2.10(f) added: In 8-Ball, it is loss of game if the 8-ball falls into a pocket when a foul is committed under Rules 1.33.4 or 1.33.7.
􀂾 Three Successive Fouls (new Rule 1.22): the warning given to a player on two fouls must be given at the beginning of the inning in which the player might foul a third successive time.
viii OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS
These specifications apply to BCAPL National Tournaments. Although they are not mandatory for other tournaments or league play, it is suggested that they be adhered to whenever possible.
Table Specifications
Table Size and Playing Surface (Figure ES-1)
The BCAPL recognizes three sizes of tables and playing surfaces as regulation (all ±1/16“):
Table Size Playing Surface
3 ½’ x 7’ 40″ x 80″
4’ x 8’ 45″ x 90″
4 ½’ x 9 50″ x 100″
Table Bed Height
The height of the top of the playing surface measured from the floor will be 30″, ±½”.
Cushions
The height of the cushion nose measured from the playing surface will be 129/64“, +1/64” or –1/32“. The playing surface is measured by straight lines from cushion nose to the cushion nose of the opposite side and perpendicular to the cushions. Figure ES-1
1 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Diamonds
The center of all diamonds will be 311/16” from the cushion nose (no tolerance).
Pocket Openings
Corner pockets: 4½” ±1/16“. Side pockets: 5″ ±1/16“.
The BCAPL measures pocket openings by the “gate method” rather than the traditional method of measuring between the tips of the cushions. If a ball entering the mouth of a pocket contacts the cushion within the mouth, it does so at a point well below the cushion nose. The gate method provides a more accurate measurement of a pocket opening based on the true action of a ball entering the mouth of the pocket.
An easy and proper way to measure a pocket using the gate method is shown in Figure ES-2. Using two new striped balls, place the balls in the mouth of the pocket with the stripes facing up and lined up. Set them so that each ball touches the vertical cut of the cushion and so that a line extending across the mouth of the pocket from cushion tip to cushion tip bisects the stripes lengthwise. Note that the balls do not touch the tips of the cushion, but instead contact the cushion at a point below the tip.
When properly placed in corner pockets the balls will:
ô€‚¾ be just touching each other – a pocket opening of exactly 4½”, or;
ô€‚¾ have a gap of up to 1/16” between them (tolerance to 49/16“), or;
ô€‚¾ require slight compression into the cushions to place as described (tolerance to 47/16“). Figure ES-2If the gap between the balls is more than 1/16” or the pocket is too narrow to place them easily as described, the pocket opening does not meet BCAPL specifications. When properly placed in side pockets the balls should have a gap of ½” between them. If the gap is less than 7/16” or more than 9/16“, the pocket opening does not meet BCAPL specifications.
Pocket Cushion Angles (Figure ES-3)
The horizontal interior angles of the cushions at the pockets will be 141° ± 1° at a corner pocket and 100° ± 1° at a side pocket. The vertical cushion angle within the mouth of all pockets will be between 12° and 15°.
Pocket Shelf Depth (Figure ES-4)
The BCAPL measures shelf depth in relation to the dimensions of a ball. Figure ES-4 shows how shelf depth is determined.
Ball placed so it is touching the cushion and as close to drop point as possible without falling in.
Shelf depth is correct when 40% of the ball (shaded area – approximately 7/8″) is outside of a line extending from and along the cushion nose.
Figure ES-4 Corner pocket - 141° Side pocket - 100° Figure ES-3 12°-15°BedCushion nose within the pocket mouth
3 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Balls
All balls will have a diameter of 2¼” ± .005″. The weight of the balls will be between 5½ and 6 ounces, but all object balls used in any match must be of equal weight. Slight variations in the weight of the cue ball may occur depending on the type of the cue ball.
Cues
a. The width of the cue tip must not exceed 14 millimeters. There is no minimum width.
b. The weight of the cue must not exceed 25 ounces. There is no minimum weight.
c. The length of the cue must be at least 40 inches. There is no maximum length.
e. (deleted)　
Paragraph (d) changed to this text 6/18/2009
4 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
DEFINITIONS AND DIAGRAMS
This section contains definitions and diagrams to help you understand and play by the BCAPL Rules.
Text appearing in bold and italics highlights definitions or diagrams that are significantly changed or new.
Above
The direction moving from any point on the table toward the head of the table. When referring to the head string, above the head string is also called “behind the head string”, “behind the line”, or “in the kitchen” (see Diagram 1).
Administrative Authority
Persons or organizations, other than referees, that have responsibility for the administration of BCAPL events. Examples include, but are not limited to:
a. the BCAPL National Office;
b. officials of BCAPL sanctioned or sponsored regional, state or local associations;
c. tournament directors and event officials;
d. any person designated by any of the above to exercise administrative authority.
With the exception of settling protests, administrative authority primarily concerns matters other than the game itself. Examples include, but are not limited to: event organization, drawing and maintaining brackets and schedules, dress codes, eligibility, event venue management, finances and prize distribution, referee management, etc.
Apex
The position of the front ball of the rack.
Ball in Hand
When the cue ball may be placed anywhere on the bed of the table. The cue ball remains “in hand” from the moment it is picked up until
5 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
the next stroke is taken, regardless of how many times it is placed, picked up again and replaced. Also referred to as “cue ball in hand”.
Ball in Hand Behind the Head String
When the cue ball may be placed anywhere behind the head string on the bed of the table. Also referred to as “ball in hand behind the line”.
Bank Shot
A shot in which the called ball, before being pocketed, contacts one or more cushions attached to a rail not adjacent to the called pocket. Incidental contact with a cushion attached to a rail adjacent to a called pocket does not constitute a bank shot. (AR p. 73)
Base of the Ball
The point at which the ball touches the bed of the table (see Diagram 2).
Bed of the Table
The cloth-covered playing surface within the cushions of the table, including the drop point slate radius up to but not including the point where a vertical line is tangent to the drop-point slate radius (see Diagram 3). The cloth-covered tops of the cushions are not part of the bed.
Behind the Head String
The area of the table between the head string and the head cushion. Also referred to as “the kitchen” or “behind the line”. The area behind the head string does not include the head string.
Below
The direction moving from any point on the table toward the foot of the table (see Diagram 1).
Break Shot
The first shot of a game.
Break Box
When specified by Administrative Authority, a marked or designated
6 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
area of the kitchen in which the cue ball must be placed for the opening break shot.
Butt
The end of a cue opposite the tip.
Call Shot Game
Game in which the specific game rules require the player, in advance of each shot, to designate the ball to be pocketed and the pocket into which it will be made.
Called Ball
In a call shot game: the object ball the player designates to be pocketed.
Called Pocket
In a call shot game, the designated pocket into which the called ball will be made.
Carom Shot
A shot in which the cue ball, before contacting the called ball, first contacts one or more other balls. (AR p. 73)
Center Spot
The point at which the long string and center string intersect (see Diagram 1).
Center String
A line between the centers of the side pockets (see Diagram 1).
Combination Shot
A shot in which the cue ball first contacts a ball other than the called ball, followed by that ball then contacting the called ball or other object ball(s) which then contact the called ball. (AR p. 73)
Cue
A device, usually wooden and tapered, used to strike the cue ball.
7 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Cue Ball
The ball that must be legally struck with the cue tip during a shot. Usually a predominately-white ball, sometimes marked with various small circles, logos, or dots.
Cue Tip
A piece of leather, fibrous, or pliable material, attached to the shaft end of the cue along its long axis, which contacts the cue ball during a stroke.
Cushion
The cloth-covered rubber, which borders the inside of the rails. There are six cushions on a pool table: the head cushion, the foot cushion, and four side cushions (see Diagram 1).
Diamonds
Inlays or markings on the table rails used for references or target points (see Diagram 1).
Disturbed Ball
A ball that has been accidentally touched or moved by the player’s body, clothing or equipment.
Double Hit
When the cue tip strikes the cue ball more than once on a single stroke.
Event
A match, game, series of matches or games, league schedule or tournament conducted under the authority of a national, regional, state or local administrative body that is BCAPL owned, sanctioned or sponsored.
Event Venue
All areas in which tables are located for play or practice; all hallways, lobbies or other public spaces adjacent to those areas; other spaces designated by Administrative Authority.
8 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Ferrule
A piece of protective material at the end of the cue shaft, onto which the cue tip is attached.
Foot Cushion
The cushion attached to the foot rail.
Foot of Table
The end of the table at which the balls are racked (see Diagram 1).
Foot Spot
The point at which the long string and the foot string intersect (see Diagram 1).
Foot String
A line between the second diamonds of the long rails as counted from the foot of the table (see Diagram 1).
Foul
Any violation of the rules of play as defined in the General Rules or specific game rules.
Foul Shot or Foul Stroke
A shot or stroke on which a foul occurs.
Frozen Ball
A ball that is touching another ball or a cushion. If loose strands or fibers of cloth extend from a cushion and contact a ball that does not constitute that ball being frozen to the cushion.
Head Cushion
The cushion attached to the head rail.
Head of Table
The end of the table from which the opening break is performed (see Diagram 1).
9 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Head Spot
The point where the head string and long string intersect (see Diagram 1).
Head String
A line between the second diamonds of the long rails as counted from the head of the table. The area behind the head string does not include the head string (see Diagram 1).
Hit
The action of the cue ball with respect to its contact with object balls.
Illegal Break
A break shot that does not meet the break requirements as defined by specific game rules. Whether an illegal break is a foul depends on specific game rules. It may be possible to have an illegal break and a different foul on the same break shot. (AR p. 75)
Illegal Object Ball
An object ball other than a legal object ball as defined by specific game rules.
Illegally Pocketed Ball (AR p. 75)
An object ball is illegally pocketed when:
a. a foul is committed on the shot in which the ball was pocketed;
b. in call shot games, a called ball goes into a pocket other than the called pocket;
c. it is defined as illegally pocketed by specific game rules.
Impeding Ball
An object ball that prevents the cue ball from traveling a straight line to the first object ball with which contact is attempted. An impeding ball may be a legal or an illegal object ball.
10 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Inning
A turn at the table by a player.
Jump Shot
Intentionally causing the cue ball, because of a downward stroke, to rebound off the bed of the table in order to jump the cue ball over an impeding ball.
Jumped Ball
A ball is a jumped ball if it:
a. comes to rest other than on the bed of the table or pocketed;
b. contacts any object that is not part of the table (chalk, light fixture, player, floor, etc.);
A ball that leaves the bed of the table and returns there without contacting anything that is not part of the table is not a jumped ball.
Kick Shot
A shot in which the cue ball, before contacting the called ball, contacts one or more cushions attached to a rail not adjacent to the called pocket. Incidental contact with a cushion attached to a rail adjacent to a called pocket does not constitute a kick shot. (AR p. 73)
Kiss
When the called ball glances off another object ball before being pocketed. (AR p. 73)
Kitchen
The area of the table between the head string and the head cushion. Also referred to as the area “behind the line” or “behind the head string”. The kitchen does not include the head string (see Diagram 1).
Lag for Break
The procedure to determine which player breaks.
11 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Legal Break
A break shot which meets the requirements of specific game rules. (AR p. 75)
Legal Object Ball
An object ball with which first contact by the cue ball is required or legal under specific game rules.
Legal Shot
A shot that does not result in a foul.
Legal Stroke
Forward motion of the cue resulting in the cue tip striking the cue ball for only the momentary time customarily associated with a normal shot. “Forward” means relative to the cue itself, along the long axis of the cue and away from the butt, and has no relevance to any part of the table or any relationship to the player or any part of their body (see Diagrams 4 and 5).
Legally Pocketed
When an object ball is pocketed on a legal shot and in accordance with the rules of the game being played.
Long Rack Game
A game, which uses a complete set of fifteen object balls.
Long String
A line between the center diamond of the head rail and the center diamond of the foot rail (see Diagram 1).
Massé Shot
A shot in which extreme spin is applied to the cue ball by elevating the butt of the cue; a shot in which any attempt is made to curve the cue ball around an impeding object ball.
Mechanical Bridge
A grooved device, usually mounted on a handle, which provides
12 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
support for the shaft of the cue.
Miscue
A stroke that unintentionally results in faulty cue tip contact with the cue ball (such as the cue tip sliding off the cue ball, or the ferrule or shaft contacting the cue ball). Often accompanied by a sharp sound not usually associated with a normal stroke.
Not Obvious (see “Obvious shot”)
Object Balls
Balls other than the cue ball.
Obvious Shot (AR p. 75, 84)
A shot in which the non-shooting player has no doubt as to, or does not question, the called ball and the called pocket. The following types of shots are exceptions and are defined as being “not obvious:
a. bank shots;
b. kick shots
c. combination shots;
The list is not necessarily all-inclusive. For other shots, the referee is the sole judge of whether a shot is obvious.
On a Foul
When a player fouls, they are said to be “on” a foul until they execute a legal shot. If a player has successive fouls, they are said to be on the number of successive fouls they have.
On the Hill
Needing only one more game to win the match.
Open Table
In 8-Ball: when groups have not been established.
13 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Playing Cue
The cue used for most shots (as opposed to a break cue or a jump cue).
Pocketed Ball
A ball that has dropped off the bed of the table into a pocket and remained there. A ball that rebounds from a pocket back onto the table bed is not a pocketed ball. An object ball that comes to rest touching both the bed of the table and any other ball or obstruction in a pocket is not a pocketed ball. (AR p. 75, 78)
Position of Ball
When a ball is resting on the bed of the table, its base determines its position (see Diagram 2).
Provided Equipment
Equipment other than that which the player brings to the match.
Push-out
In 9-Ball and 10-Ball: a shot, declared in advance and immediately following a legal break, in which Rule 1.19 does not apply.
Push Shot
A shot in which the cue tip maintains contact with the cue ball longer than the momentary contact allowed for a legal stroke. (AR p. 76)
Rack
The device used for gathering the balls into the formation required by the game being played (also called the “triangle”); the formation of the object balls at the beginning of the game.
Rail
The top surfaces of the table, not covered by cloth, from which the cushions protrude. There are four rails on a pool table: the head rail and the foot rail (also called “short rails”), and two side rails (also called “long rails”) (see Diagram 1).
14 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Regulations
Procedures established by the Administrative Authority that do not directly affect the play of the game on the table, and which are primarily administrative in nature. Examples include dress codes, eligibility, who breaks subsequent racks, bracket procedures, etc.
Restoration
When a disturbed ball is returned to its original position.
Safety
When specific game rules permit: a shot, declared in advance and acknowledged by the opponent, which ends a player’s inning regardless of whether a ball is pocketed. Also known as “Safe”. (AR p. 76)
Sanctioned Event
Any league or tournament play that is officially recognized by the BCAPL.
Scratch
When the cue ball is pocketed on a shot; when the cue ball simultaneously contacts the bed of the table and any pocketed ball or obstruction in a pocket.
Shaft
The end of the cue to which the cue tip is attached.
Short Rack Game
A game that uses a rack of less than fifteen object balls.
Shot
All events related to the motion of the balls from the time the cue tip contacts the cue ball until all of the balls have come to rest.
Shot Clock
A timing device used to measure the time limit a player has to take a
15 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
shot. The device must have functions of a stopwatch including start, stop, and reset. If the device has audio functions, they must be disabled.
Simultaneous Hit
A shot in which it cannot be determined which object ball the cue ball struck first.
Stroke
The motion of the cue from the time it begins its forward motion, through the time the cue tip strikes the cue ball, and any further follow-through motion of the cue.
Successive Fouls
Fouls committed on consecutive strokes or shots by the same player (also called “consecutive fouls”).
Table in Position
The position of the balls on the table as they lie.
16 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Diagram 1 – The Table
Diagram 2 – Position of Ball Determined by Its Base
Position of ball is at its base
Rack positions
“Above”, or toward the head of the table
“Below”, or toward the foot of the table
KITCHEN
Head String
Foot String
Long String
Foot Spot
Rail
Cushion
Does not include the Head String
Foot Rail
Side Rail
Diamond
Head Spot
Head Rail
Head of Table
Foot of Table
Center Spot
Center String Example: Ball is not in the kitchen. Kitchen
17 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Diagram 3 – Bed of the Table
Diagram 4 – Long Axis of Cue
The long axis of the cue is a line extending from the center of the butt through the center of the tip.
Diagram 5 – Illegal Stroke by Lifting or Brushing with the Cue Tip
Any lifting, sideways, or other brushing motion of the cue, such that the force that propels the cue ball does not result primarily from a forward motion of the cue as defined under “Legal Stroke”, is a foul. Without applying a substantial forward stroke motion, the player lifts the cue vertically or moves it sideways or at an angle, propelling the cue ball with a brushing motion. Top of bed Vertical line tangent to drop point slate radius All portions of the cloth covered surface above the dashed line are a part of the bed of the table as described in the definitions.
18 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Diagram 6 – Illegal Lag Result (see Rule 1.12)
Diagram 7 – Area Originally Occupied by a Disturbed Ball Final position of lagged ball Head Cushion Edge of ball comes to rest past the nose of the head cushion. 7 inches Original position of disturbed ball.
19 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
Additional balls are placed on the long string below the foot string, moving toward the foot of the table.
Diagram 8 – Spotting Balls
A single ball is placed on the foot spot.
If there is no room below the foot string, balls are placed on the long string above the foot string, moving toward the head of the table.
Spotting without interfering balls The first ball would be spotted here. Balls would be spotted beginning here if there was no room below the foot string. Interfering balls Additional balls spotted as shown. Spotting with interfering balls
20 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
RULES SECTION 1
GENERAL RULES
Text appearing in bold and italics highlights rules that are either new or that have significant changes.
These rules apply to all BCAPL tournaments, league play, and other BCAPL events. Unless clearly contradicted or suspended by specific game rules, the General Rules apply to all games.
1.1 Player Responsibility
1. You are responsible for knowing the rules, applied rulings, regulations, and schedules that pertain to any BCAPL event you enter. You are also responsible for cooperating with all referees and event officials, and for accurately providing all requested information concerning your participation in the event to referees and event officials when asked to do so.
2. Event officials and referees will provide information as required by the rules to the best of their ability and knowledge. However, Rule 1.1 takes precedence and the ultimate responsibility for knowing the correct information still rests with you. You may still incur penalties if you commit a foul or violate the rules as a result of incorrect information provided to you by an event official or referee. (AR p. 96)
1.2 Acceptance of Provided Equipment
1. Once your match begins, you accept all provided equipment as standard and legal. After a match has begun, only a referee or event official may declare the equipment defective or unsuitable for play. If the equipment is declared unsuitable for play, all games previously played on that equipment will be counted. (AR p. 77)
2. During a match, it is a foul if you attempt to modify provided equipment without the permission of a referee or event official. The foul occurs immediately upon the attempt, regardless of whether a stroke or shot is attempted. (AR p. 77)
1.3 Use of Equipment (AR p. 78)
The BCAPL reserves the right to prohibit any equipment it deems untested or inappropriate, or that has not been evaluated by the
21 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
BCAPL National Office.
1. You are responsible for all equipment and accessory items you bring to the table. You may not use equipment or accessory items in a manner other than their intended use. Specifically:
a. You may use your cue, held in your hand or not, to help align a shot;
b. you may use either a built-in or an add-on cue extender;
c. you may use your own chalk provided it is compatible with the cloth;
d. you may use a billiards glove;
e. you may not use more than two mechanical bridges at any one time. A bridge may only be used to support the cue or another bridge;
f. you may not use any item to support or elevate your bridge hand. You may hold chalk in your bridge hand while bridging, but the chalk may not be used to elevate your hand off the table;
g. you may not use any ball, your cue, the rack, or any other equipment or width-measuring device or any part of your body to determine if the cue ball or an object ball would fit through a gap or to judge what ball the cue ball would contact first.
2. You may not wear any electronic headgear or use any electronic device during a match. Examples include, but are not limited to:
a. Headphones, earphones, or earplugs of any kind, including Bluetooth accessories, whether turned on or not. Hearing aids are permitted.
b. Cell phones, pagers, or music devices. Cell phones may be worn on the belt or kept in pockets, but may not be accessed for messages or conversations at any time during a match by singles or scotch doubles players, or during your game in team play. You must turn off all audible ringers and other notification tones while on the event floor. Emergency communications are permitted at any time.
3. Violation of this rule is a foul.
22 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
1.4 Cue Requirements
1. Your cues must meet BCAPL specifications.
2. It is a foul if you take a shot with a cue that does not meet BCAPL specifications. The cue must be removed from play. (AR p.79)
1.5 Start Time of Match
The start time for your match is the scheduled time or the time the match is announced, whichever is later. If you are not present at the table with your equipment within fifteen minutes after the start time you lose the match by forfeit. (AR p. 80)
1.6 Playing Without Referees
When a referee is not available, the Tournament Director or designated event official will fulfill the duties of the referee.
1.7 Beginning of Game or Match
Your match or game begins when the cue tip strikes the cue ball during any stroke on the opening break.
1.8 No Practice Allowed During Match
1. It is a foul if you practice at any time during your match, including time-outs and periods of suspended play. “Practice” is defined as any stroke or shot that is not a part of your match, taken on any table at the event venue. In team play, this rule applies to all members of the team that are on the team’s roster, whether or not they are playing at the time and whether or not they are listed on the score sheet of the match in progress. (AR p. 80)
2. In team play:
a. For violations by players who are playing a game at that time: it is a foul and the penalty is applied to that table only;
b. For violations by players who are not playing a game at that time: it is a foul and the penalty is applied to all tables. (AR p. 80)
23 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
1.9 Stopping Play
1. You may request the assistance of a referee if you believe that a foul may occur or has occurred, or if you need information concerning the rules. If you desire the assistance of a referee, you must notify your opponent and your opponent must acknowledge your request. If it is your opponent’s inning, you must notify them before they are down on the shot. (AR p. 81, 84)
2. If your opponent requests that play be stopped in order to summon a referee or other event official, you must acknowledge and honor that request. After play has stopped, it is a foul if you take any stroke or shot until a referee authorizes you to shoot.
1.10 Suspended Play
Play may be suspended at the referee’s discretion. It is a foul if you take any stroke or shot while play is suspended. (AR p.81)
1.11 Time Out
If time outs are allowed by event regulations, you may only take a time out during your inning or when it is your turn to break. Each player is allowed one time out per match. Time outs are limited to five minutes. If you exceed your allotted five minutes, or leave the playing area when not authorized to do so, you will forfeit one game for every two-minute period you fail to return to the match. The two-minute period begins once a referee has determined you are not present when you should be. Time outs are not allowed in team play during BCAPL sanctioned tournaments. (AR p. 79, 80)
1.12 Lag for Break
This rule applies if players are required to lag by event regulations.
1. The lag begins with each player having ball in hand behind the head string, one to the left of the long string and one to the right. The balls must be of equal size and weight. The players shoot at approximately the same time toward the foot cushion. The ball must contact the foot cushion. When the balls come to rest, the player whose ball is closest to the head cushion wins the lag. The players will lag again if the lag is a tie, or if one player strikes the cue ball after the other player’s ball has contacted the foot cushion.
24 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
2. You lose the lag if your ball:
a. does not contact the foot cushion;
b. contacts the foot cushion more than once;
c. crosses the long string;
d. contacts a side cushion;
e. is pocketed or jumped off the table;
f. comes to rest past the nose of the head cushion (see Diagram 6).
3. The player who wins the lag may either break or require their opponent to break.
1.13 Breaking Subsequent Games of a Match
In matches consisting of multiple games, the Administrative Authority of the event will set the procedure for determining which player or team will break subsequent racks. (AR p. 82)
1.14 Racking Procedures
1. You must rack for yourself when you are breaking.
2. You must rack the balls as tightly as possible. That means that each ball should touch all balls adjacent to it. (AR p. 83)
3. After you rack the balls, your opponent may inspect the rack but must not touch any ball. If your opponent is not satisfied with the rack, they may require you to re-rack the balls one time. After one re-rack, if both players cannot agree that the rack is suitable for play a referee must be called. The referee will then rack the balls for that game.
3. You should refrain from tapping balls unless necessary. It is preferable to brush the area of the rack and ensure that the spot attached to the cloth, if any, is in good condition.
4. If the arrangement of the rack does not meet the requirements of the specific game, it will be corrected without penalty. If your opponent’s rack does not meet the requirements and you do not notify them before they break, the game will continue with no penalty.
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1.15 (Deleted – covered under Rule 1.40)
1.16 Shot Clock Procedures
1. There is normally no time limit for you to take a shot. However, a referee may implement a shot clock if they judge that you are delaying a match unnecessarily or in an unsportsmanlike manner, or if event officials require that a match proceed at a faster pace. (AR p. 83)
2. You may call a referee if you believe your opponent is deliberately or consistently playing at an abnormally slow pace. If, after a reasonable period of observation, the referee judges that slow play is occurring, they will warn the offending player(s). After the warning, if the referee judges that the pace of play remains abnormally slow, they will place the match on a 45-second shot clock.
3. If a shot clock is used, it always applies to all players at that table. Shot clock procedures follow:
a. During a player’s inning, the shot clock starts when the previous shot ends and runs for 45 seconds or until cue tip to cue ball contact begins the next shot. If a player has ball in hand, the shot clock starts when the player has possession of the cue ball and any spotting of balls or racking is finished.
b. If they are not already down on the shot when ten seconds remain on the shot clock, the player will receive a ten second warning from the referee (announced as “ten”). If the player does not strike the cue ball within ten seconds, it is a shot clock violation.
c. If a player is already down on the shot at the ten-second mark, no announcement is made. The shot clock will pause at ten seconds and the player may exceed the 45- second limit provided they do not stand up off the shot. However, if the player stands up off the shot, the referee will immediately announce “ten”, the shot clock will resume. If the player does not strike the cue ball within ten seconds, it is a shot clock violation. (AR p. 83)
d. For timing purposes, “down on the shot” means the player is in a customary shooting position as it relates to their bridge hand and grip of the cue, or, if using a mechanical bridge, the bridge has been placed for the shot and the cue placed in the bridge’s groove with the player’s grip hand on the cue.
26 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
e. Each player is permitted one 45-second extension per rack. If both players are on the hill, each player is permitted two 45-second extensions. To use an extension, the player must verbally announce “extension” to the referee. The referee will then respond with “extension” or, if the player has no extension remaining, “extension not allowed”. Timing procedures at the ten-second mark for extensions are the same as for other shots.
f. A shot clock violation is a foul. (AR p. 83)
g. The shot clock does not apply to the first shot after the break in any game.
Rule 1.17 applies only to games designated by specific game rules as Call Shot games.
1. You must designate the called ball and the called pocket before each shot. You may make the designation verbally or by gesture.
You may only call one ball on a shot. You do not have to call obvious shots. You are not required to indicate incidental kisses and caroms, or incidental cushion contacts that do not constitute bank shots or kick shots.2. If you are not certain what shot your opponent is attempting, it is your responsibility to ask. You must ask before your opponent is down on the shot. With the exception of shots defined as not obvious, if you are not certain about a shot and you do not ask, the shot will be considered obvious. 3. You must always call
shots that are defined as not obvious. This rule applies regardless of whether or not your opponent asks about the shot, and regardless of how simple or obvious the shot may appear.4. When calling bank shots, kick shots and combination shots you are only required to designate the called ball and called pocket. If shooting a combination you do not have to say the word “combination”, or state which ball will be struck first, or the sequence of balls. When shooting a bank shot or kick shot you do not have to say the word “bank” or “kick” nor specify which cushions will be involved in the shot.
27 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE5. When the game winning ball is your legal object ball, if you pocket the ball on a bank shot, kick shot, or combination shot but fail to call the shot your inning ends, the ball is spotted, and the incoming player must accept the table in position. Rule 1.17.5 does not apply to 8-Ball.
6. If you do not call a bank shot, kick shot, or combination shot and you pocket any ball, your inning ends and the incoming player must accept the table in position.
7. A shot that was obvious prior to the shot will count for the shooter if the shot inadvertently:
a. becomes a bank shot because the called ball did not go directly into the called pocket but instead contacted two or more cushions prior to being pocketed in the called pocket, or;
b. becomes a kick shot because the cue ball initially missed the called ball, contacted one or more cushions, and then pocketed the called ball in the called pocket.
1.18 Legal Stroke
You must use a legal stroke. Any lifting, sideways, or other brushing motion of the cue, such that the force that propels the cue ball does not primarily result from a forward motion of the cue as defined under “Legal Stroke”, is a foul. (See Diagrams 4 and 5).
1.19 Legal Shot (AR p. 86)1. For a shot to be legal, the first ball contacted by the cue ball must be a legal object ball. After that contact:
a. any object ball must be pocketed, or;
b. any object ball or the cue ball must contact a cushion.
2. If the ball used to meet the cushion contact requirement of 1.19.1(b) is declared frozen to a cushion at the beginning of the shot, then that ball must leave the cushion it is frozen to and then:
b. contact another ball before it contacts the cushion to which
it was frozen.
3. An object ball is not considered frozen to a cushion unless it is declared frozen immediately prior to the shot.
The previous Rule 1.20 titled “Object Ball Frozen to Cushion” has been merged into rule 1.19 for clarity. There has been no change in effect. The new Rules 1.20 and 1.21 have been re-titled with no change in effect.
1.20 Cue Ball Frozen to Object Ball or Cushion (AR p. 88)
1. The cue ball is not considered frozen to an object ball or cushion unless it is declared frozen immediately prior to the shot.
2. If the cue ball is frozen to a legal object ball, it is legal to shoot toward the object ball provided you use a legal stroke.
3. If the cue ball is frozen to a cushion, it is legal to shoot the cue ball into the cushion provided you use a legal stroke.
4. The presence of one or more object balls or a cushion nearby may create the possibility of a violation of Rule 1.30 during the same stroke, but after the initial cue tip to cue ball contact.
5. Shooting the cue ball away from an object ball that is frozen to the cue ball does not constitute contacting that object ball.
1.21 Penalties for Fouls
1. If you commit a foul, or otherwise violate the rules, you are penalized according to the General Rules, the specific rules of the game being played, or both.
2. Unless otherwise stated in the General Rules or specific game rules, if you commit a foul or violate the rules your inning ends and your opponent receives ball in hand.
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1.22 Successive Fouls
(combined and moved from specific game rules – no change in
content)
This rule applies to games in which there is a penalty for successive fouls.
1. You always begin a game with a successive foul count of zero. When you commit a foul, your successive foul count is one (referred to as “on one foul”) and you incur the normal penalty for the foul.
2. When you are on one foul, if your next attempted shot is legal, your successive foul count resets to zero. If you fail to make a legal shot, your successive foul count is two (referred to as “on two fouls”). You also incur the normal penalty for the second foul.
3. When you are on two fouls, if your next attempted shot is legal, your successive foul count resets to zero. If you fail to make a legal shot, your successive foul count is three and you incur the penalty indicated by specific game rules. After the penalty, your successive foul count resets to zero.
4. When your opponent is on two fouls: after your inning ends and before your opponent shoots, you or a referee must warn them that they are on two fouls, and they must acknowledge the warning. If the warning is not issued and they foul on their next shot:
a. it is not considered a third successive foul;
b. they incur the normal penalty for a foul, but not the penalty for three successive fouls;
c. their foul count remains at two.
1.23 Fouls Not Called
Any foul not called before the next stroke is taken is considered to have not occurred. The failure to call a foul on any previous shot does not restrict the ability to call a similar foul on any future shot. (AR p. 88)1.24 Multiple Fouls
If you commit more than one foul during a shot, only the foul that carries the most severe penalty is enforced. However, unsportsmanlike conduct and deliberate fouls may be penalized in
30 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUEconjunction with any foul. (AR p.88)
1.25 One Foot on the Floor
It is a foul if you do not have at least one foot in contact with the floor when the cue tip strikes the cue ball. Footwear must be normal with regard to size, shape, and manner of wear.
1.26 Balls in Motion
It is a foul if you shoot while any ball in play is in motion. A spinning ball is in motion.
1.27 Scratch
It is a foul if you scratch.
1.28 Jumped Balls
It is a foul if you cause any ball to be jumped off the table. (AR p. 89)
1.29 Push Shot
It is a foul if you shoot a push shot.
1.30 Double Hit
1. It is a foul if your cue tip strikes the cue ball more than once on the same stroke.
2. It is a foul if your cue tip is still in contact with the cue ball when the cue ball strikes an object ball. However, such a stroke may be considered legal if the object ball is legal and cue ball strikes it at a very fine angle. The referee is the sole judge of whether or not the angle taken results in a legal shot. The referee may not advise you concerning the angle taken for the shot. (AR p. 89)
1.31 Simultaneous Hit
A simultaneous hit with a legal and illegal object ball is legal.
1.32 Miscues
A miscue is not a foul. (AR p. 89)
1.33 Disturbed Balls (Cue Ball Fouls Only) (AR p. 90)
31 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
1. It is not a foul if you accidentally touch or disturb a single object ball with any part of your body, clothing or equipment, unless the disturbed ball has an effect on the outcome of the shot.
2. “Effect on the outcome of the shot” means that either the disturbed ball makes contact with any ball set in motion as a result of the shot, or that the base of any ball set in motion as a result of the shot passes through the area originally occupied by the disturbed ball. That area is defined as a circle approximately seven inches in diameter centered on the position originally occupied by the disturbed ball (see Diagram 7).
3. If there is no effect on the outcome of the shot, your opponent has the option to leave the disturbed ball where it came to rest or to restore it to its original position. If the disturbed ball is to be restored, a referee may restore it, your opponent may restore it, or you may restore it with your opponent’s permission. It is a foul if you touch or restore the disturbed ball without your opponent’s permission.
4. It is a foul if there is an effect on the outcome of the shot. Your opponent has no restoration option.
5. If you disturb a single object ball and, in the same shot, commit a foul that is not related to the disturbed ball: you are penalized for the foul, and your opponent has the restoration option for the disturbed ball that was not involved in the foul.
6. If a single disturbed ball falls into a pocket with no effect on the outcome of the shot, your opponent has the restoration option. However, if the disturbed ball is designated by specific game rules as the game winning ball, it must be restored.
7. It is a foul if:
a. you disturb the cue ball
b. you disturb more than one object ball;
c. a disturbed ball contacts any other ball;
d. you disturb a ball that is in motion.
Your opponent has no restoration option.
1.34 Jump Shots and Massé Shots
1. Jump shots are legal shots. However, it is a foul if you intentionally cause the cue ball to rise off the bed of the table by “digging under” or
32 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE“scooping” the cue ball with the cue. (AR p. 89)
2. If you attempt to jump over or massé around an impeding illegal object ball then Rule 1.33, Disturbed Balls, does not apply to the impeding ball for that shot. If the impeding illegal object ball moves during the stroke it is a foul regardless of whether it was moved by the cue ball, your equipment or any part of your body.
3. Any attempt to curve the cue ball around an impeding ball is a massé shot, regardless of the degree of elevation of the cue or amount of curve.
1.35 Position of Ball
The base of a ball determines its position (see Diagram 2).
1.36 Shooting with Ball in Hand Behind the Head String
(AR p. 93)
1. When you have ball in hand behind the head string, it is a foul if the first ball contacted by the cue ball is behind the head string unless you first shoot the cue ball past the head string and it contacts a cushion at a point below the head string before contacting that ball.
2. It is a foul if, before contacting the first object ball, the first cushion contacted by the cue ball is behind the head string.
1.37 (Reserved for Future Use)
1.38 Ball in Hand Placement
1. When you have ball in hand, you may use your hand or any part of your cue, including the tip, to position the cue ball. If you use your cue to place the cue ball, any action that would be a legal stroke will be considered a shot, and must meet the requirements of a legal shot or it is a foul.
2. Once you have picked up the cue ball to take ball in hand, it remains in hand until your next stroke. You may place the cue ball, pick it up again, and replace it successive times until you take that stroke. (AR p. 95)
3. Immediately after a foul, when you are picking up the cue ball the first time to take ball in hand (as opposed to placing the cue ball or picking it up again for successive placements before the next shot), the provisions of Rule 1.33.1 apply to touching or disturbing a single object ball with the cue ball or your hand. You may request that a
33 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
referee pick the cue ball up for you immediately after a foul.
4. When placing the cue ball, it is a foul if you touch or disturb any object ball with the cue ball or your hand that holds the cue ball. Your “hand” is defined as including the wrist up to a point where a wristwatch would normally be worn. If the foul involves only a single object ball, your opponent has the option to leave the disturbed ball where it came to rest or to restore it to its original position. There is no restoration option if more than one object ball is touched or disturbed.
1.39 Marking the Table
It is a foul if you intentionally mark the table in any way to assist you in executing any shot or future shot. Marking includes the deliberate placement of chalk or any other object at a specific point on a rail or cushion to aid the alignment of a shot, or placing any mark on any part of the table. The foul occurs at the moment you attempt to mark the table, regardless of whether you remove the mark or whether a shot is taken.
1.40 Deliberate Foul
During a game, it is a deliberate foul if you commit any of the following acts. In addition to the penalties under the General Rules and specific game rules, you incur additional penalties as indicated.
a. Intentionally strike the cue ball with anything other than your cue tip.
c. Intentionally cause any ball in play to move by contacting or moving any part of the table in any way. (AR p. 95)
d. Intentionally stop or deflect any ball that is in motion.
Penalties: First violation of (d): your opponent may have the ball spotted or pocketed. It is loss of game if it is the game winning ball. It is loss of game if a deflected ball contacts any other ball. Second and subsequent violations during a match: loss of game.
34 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
e. Catch any ball that is falling into a pocket.
f. Place your hand into a pocket while any ball is in motion near that pocket.
Each violation of (e-f): your opponent may have the ball spotted, placed along the lip of the pocket, or pocketed. It is loss of game if the ball involved is the game winning ball. (8-Ball exception: if the 8-ball is involved on the break shot, it is a foul only). Second and subsequent violations during a match: loss of game.
1.41 Coaching
1. During your match, it is a foul if you ask for or intentionally receive assistance in planning or executing any shot.
2. Any person, except your opponent, who offers any significant assistance to you, whether verbal or non-verbal, will be removed from the area.
3. The Administrative Authority of the event may modify this rule for team or doubles play. (AR p. 95)
1.42 Non-Shooting Player Requirement
It is unsportsmanlike conduct if you intentionally distract your opponent or interfere with their play. (AR p. 81, 95)
1.43 Concession of Game
1. You must not concede any game at any time for any reason. “Concede” means that as a result of any verbal or non-verbal action, you lead your opponent to believe that you are awarding them the game before its normal conclusion on the table. Before a game has ended, you must refrain from making any statements such as “good game”, etc., or any other verbal inference that the game is over or that your opponent is certain or likely to win. You must also refrain from any similar non-verbal action, such as putting away your cue or accessory items, beginning to mark a score sheet, changing clothes, juggling tokens, etc. Whether or not you have conceded a game is determined solely by the referee’s judgment.
2. If you concede a game, in addition to losing that game you receive a mandatory warning against further concessions. A second violation results in the loss of the conceded game and a deduction of one game
35 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
from your score (if you have zero games, your score would be “minus one game”) and a final mandatory warning. A third violation results in loss of match. In team play, any member of the team may commit the second or third violations. (AR p. 95)
3. In the absence of any act judged a concession under Rule 1.43.1, you must not assume that your opponent has conceded the game. If you do, you lose that game. (AR p. 95)
1.44 Concession of Match
When your opponent is on the hill, if you make a motion to unscrew your playing cue during your opponent’s inning you lose the match. (AR p. 96)
1.45 Unsportsmanlike Conduct (AR p. 96)
1. You must not commit any act that is unsportsmanlike in nature. This includes, but is not limited to, actions that are embarrassing, disruptive, or detrimental to other players, spectators, referees, event officials, or the sport in general.
2. You are responsible for your actions at all times while you are present at the event venue, whether playing or not.
3. You may be penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct with or without warning. Penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct are at the discretion of the referee or other designated event officials, and may vary based upon the referee’s or event official’s judgment of the severity and nature of the unsportsmanlike act.
4. Unsportsmanlike conduct warnings and penalties carry forward and are cumulative during the entire event.
5. Disqualification from any BCAPL event for unsportsmanlike conduct will result in forfeiture of any prize money, trophy, or award won by that player or team. In addition, any championship recognition will not be entered in the official records of the event.
1.46 Spotting Balls (see Diagram 
1. Balls to be spotted are placed on the long string with the number facing up. A single ball is placed on the foot spot. If more than one ball is to be spotted, they are placed on the long string in ascending numerical order, beginning on the foot spot and moving toward the foot of the table.
36 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
2. If other balls interfere with spotting, the ball(s) to be spotted will be placed on the long string below the foot spot, but as close as possible to the foot spot, without moving the interfering balls. If there is no space available on the long string below the foot spot, they will be placed on the long string above the foot spot, but as close as possible to the foot spot, without moving the interfering balls.
3. Whenever possible, spotted balls will be placed frozen to interfering object balls or other spotted balls. If the cue ball is the interfering ball, the spotted ball will be placed as closely as possible to the cue ball without being frozen to it. (AR p. 99)
1.47 Jawed Balls
If balls are wedged between the sides of a pocket or between cushions and any of those balls are suspended above the bed of the table, the referee will inspect the balls and judge whether, if they were free to fall directly downward, the balls would come to rest on the bed of the table or in the pocket. The referee will then place the balls in the positions as judged and play will continue.
1.48 Non-Player Interference
1. If balls move because of the action of a non-player or other influence beyond the control of the players, a referee will restore the balls as nearly as possible to their original positions and play will continue. If the interference occurs during your shot and has an effect on the outcome of the shot, you shoot again. In either case, if the referee judges that restoration is not possible, the game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again. Balls moved under such circumstances do not meet the definition of disturbed balls and Rule 1.33 does not apply. (AR p. 99)
1.49 Balls Settling or Moving
1. If a ball settles or otherwise moves by itself, it will remain in the position it assumed and play continues. It is not a foul if a ball settles or otherwise moves by itself as you are shooting. If a ball that you are shooting at settles while you are shooting but does not fall into a pocket, the result of the shot stands.
2. If a ball that is frozen to the cue ball moves as the cue ball leaves its original position on a shot, whether or not it was moved by the cue ball or settled on its own is determined solely by the referee’s judgment.
37 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
3. If a ball is hanging on the lip of a pocket and falls into that pocket by itself after the shooter has left the table to end their inning or after being stationary for five seconds or longer, it will be replaced as closely as possible to the position it was in prior to falling.
4. If a hanging ball drops into a pocket by itself as you are shooting, the ruling depends on the ensuing action of the balls:
a. if no ball passes through the area originally occupied by the hanging ball, it is restored and play will continue;
b. if the cue ball, before contacting another ball, passes through the area originally occupied by the hanging ball and, without contacting any other balls, either scratches or remains on the table, both the cue ball and the object ball are restored to their prior positions and you shoot again; (AR p. 99)
c. if the shot is legal and any ball passes through the area originally occupied by the hanging ball, including the cue ball with or without scratching, and any other balls are contacted by such a ball at any point during the shot, a referee will attempt to restore the position prior to the shot and you shoot again. If restoration is not possible, the game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again; (AR p. 99)
d. if the shot is illegal because the cue ball first contacts an illegal object ball before it or any other ball passes through the area originally occupied by the hanging ball, it is a foul. The incoming player accepts the object balls in position. If the hanging ball is designated by specific game rules as the game winning ball it must be restored, otherwise it is not restored.
RULES SECTION 2
8-BALL
2.1 The Game
8-Ball is a call shot game played with a cue ball and fifteen object balls numbered 1 through 15. Each player or team has a group of seven balls: the solid colored balls numbered 1 through 7, or the striped balls numbered 9 through 15. The 8-ball is the game winning ball. The object of the game is for you to pocket your entire group of balls and then legally pocket the 8-ball. The game is played by two players or two teams.
2.2 8-Ball Rack
The balls are racked as follows (see Figure 2-1):
a. in a triangle with the apex ball on the foot spot;
b. the rows behind the apex are parallel to the foot string;
c. the 8-ball is in the middle of the row of three balls;
d. the remaining balls are placed at random, except that the ball at each rear corner of the rack must be of a different group than the other rear corner. The left/right orientation of the groups for those two balls does not matter. (AR p. 99)
Apex One solid and one stripe, left/right orientation does not matter. Foot Figure 2-1 Apex ball on foot spot. 8OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
2.3 Break Requirements
1. You begin the break with ball in hand behind the head string. There is no requirement to call a ball on the break shot or for the cue ball to contact any particular ball first. You must pocket a ball or cause at least four object balls to contact one or more cushions or it is an illegal break. If you pocket a ball, you continue to shoot. If you do not pocket a ball or you commit a foul, your inning ends.
2. If you intend to break softly, you must notify your opponent and allow them the opportunity to call a referee to watch your break. Failure to do so is a foul.
3. If your break is illegal your inning ends. Your opponent may:
a. accept the table in position if you did not scratch;
b. accept the table in position with ball in hand behind the head string if you foul;
c. re-rack the balls and break;
d. require you to re-rack the balls and break again.
4. If you scratch or jump the cue ball off the table on a legal break and do not pocket the 8-ball, your inning ends and any other pocketed balls remain pocketed. Your opponent receives ball in hand behind the head string.
5. If you foul on a legal break but do not scratch or pocket the 8-ball, your inning ends and any other pocketed balls remain pocketed. Your opponent may:
a. accept the table in position or;
b. take ball in hand behind the head string.
6. In all cases on the break, jumped balls other than the 8-ball are not returned to the table except in the case of a re-rack.
2.4 8-Ball Pocketed on the Break
1. If you pocket the 8-ball on the break and do not foul, you may:
a. have the 8-ball spotted and accept the table in position or;
b. re-rack the balls and break again.
2. If you pocket the 8-ball on the break and scratch or jump the cue ball of the table, your inning ends. Your opponent may:
a. have the 8-ball spotted and take ball in hand behind the head string;
b. re-rack the balls and break;
c. require you to re-rack the balls and break again.
3. If you pocket the 8-ball on the break and foul but do not scratch, or if you jump the 8-ball off the table, your inning ends. Your opponent may:
a. have the 8-ball spotted and take ball in hand behind the head string;
b. have the 8-ball spotted and accept the table in position;
c. re-rack the balls and break;
d. require you to re-rack the balls and break again.
4. If the 8-ball is pocketed on the break, and it is not noticed until after another shot has been taken, the game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again.
2.5 Table Open After the Break
The table is always open after the break and remains open until groups are established. When the table is open, all object balls except the 8-ball are legal object balls. For combination shots, a ball of one group may be contacted first to pocket a ball of the other group. The 8-ball may be part of such a combination if it is not the first ball contacted by the cue ball.
2.6 Establishing Groups
1. Groups are established when the first object ball is legally pocketed on a shot after the break. The player legally pocketing the first ball is assigned that group, and the opponent is assigned the other group. You cannot establish a group on a safety. (AR p. 99)
2. If all balls of either group are pocketed on the break or illegally pocketed before groups are established, either player may legally shoot the 8-ball during their inning. You win the game if you legally pocket the 8-ball on such a shot.
41 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
3. Once they are established, groups can never change for the remainder of that game. If a player shoots the wrong group and no foul is called before the next shot and the player continues to shoot at that group, or if at any time during the game it is discovered by either player or a referee that the players are shooting the wrong groups and a foul was not called in a timely manner, the game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again.
2.7 Continuing Play
1. Once groups are established, play continues with each player having their group as legal object balls. Balls in your opponents’ group and the 8-ball are illegal object balls. When it is your inning, you continue to shoot as long as you legally pocket a ball on each shot. Your inning ends if you do not legally pocket a ball.
2. Jumped balls and illegally pocketed balls are not returned to the table but do count in favor of the player with that group.
2.8 Safety Play
Prior to any shot except the break, you may declare a safety. On a safety, your inning ends after the shot regardless of whether you pocket any ball. You must declare the safety to your opponent before the shot, and they must acknowledge your intentions. If you do not declare a safety or it is not acknowledged, and you pocket an obvious ball, your inning continues and you must shoot again. A safety must meet the requirements of a legal shot or it is a foul. (AR p. 76, 99)
2.9 Shooting the 8-Ball
1. The 8-ball becomes your legal object ball on your first shot after the last ball of your group is pocketed. The player who legally pockets the 8-ball wins the game. (AR p. 99)
2. With the exception of the provisions of Rule 2.10, it is not loss of game if you foul but do not pocket the 8-ball. Your opponent receives ball in hand.
2.10 Loss of Game
You lose the game if:
a. you illegally pocket the 8-ball; (AR p. 99)
42 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
b. you jump the 8-ball off the table on any shot other than the break;
c. you pocket the 8-ball on the same shot as the last ball of your group;
d. you violate any General Rule that requires loss of game as a penalty;
f. you foul under Rule 1.33.4 or 1.33.7 and the 8-ball falls into a pocket.
2.11 Stalemate
If a referee judges that the table is in a position such that any attempt to pocket or move a ball will result in loss of game, and each player has played three consecutive innings without significantly changing the position, the referee will declare a stalemate and the game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again. (AR p. 100)
43 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
RULES SECTION 3
9-BALL
3.1 The Game
9-Ball is played with a cue ball and nine object balls numbered 1 through 9. You shoot the balls in ascending numerical order, receiving credit for any ball legally pocketed. The 9-ball is the game winning ball. The object of the game is to pocket the 9-ball on any legal shot. The game is played by two players or two teams.
3.2 9-Ball Rack
The balls are racked as follows (see Figure 3-1):
a. in a diamond shape with the 1-ball as the apex ball on the foot spot;
b. the rows behind the apex are parallel to the foot string;
c. the 9-ball is in the middle of the rack;
d. the remaining balls are placed at random.
3.3 Break Requirements
1. You begin the break with ball in hand behind the head string. The cue ball must contact the 1-ball before any other ball or cushion or it is a foul. You must either pocket a ball or cause at least four object balls to contact one or more cushions, or it is a foul.
2. Jumped object balls other than the 9-ball are not returned to the table. If the 9-ball is jumped, it is spotted. Figure 3-1 Apex ball on foot spot Apex 1 9
44 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE3. If you legally pocket a ball, you continue to shoot. Your inning ends if you do not pocket a ball or if you foul. If you legally pocket the 9-ball on the break, you win the game. If you foul on the break and pocket the 9-ball, it is spotted.
3.4 Push-out After the Break
1. If there was no foul on the break, the player taking the first shot after the break has the option to shoot a push-out. On a push-out:
a. you must notify your opponent before the shot and your opponent must acknowledge your intention;
b. the cue ball does not have to contact the lowest numbered ball first, or any object ball at all;
c. no ball has to contact a cushion
d. all other rules and fouls still apply.
2. Any object balls except the 9-ball that are pocketed on a push-out remain pocketed. If the 9-ball is pocketed it is spotted.
3. After a push-out, your opponent may:
a. accept the table in position and shoot, or;
b. require you to shoot again with the table in position.
3.5 Continuing Play
1. After the break (and push-out, if one occurs), play continues as follows:
a. the lowest numbered ball on the table must be the first object ball contacted by the cue ball or it is a foul;
b. if you legally pocket any ball your inning must continue;
c. the 9-ball is spotted if it is illegally pocketed or if it is jumped;
d. other jumped balls and illegally pocketed balls are not returned to the table.
2. When it is your inning, you must continue to shoot as long as you legally pocket a ball on each shot. Your inning ends if you do not legally pocket a ball.
45 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE3. The game is won by the player who legally pockets the 9-ball.
3.6 Three Successive Fouls
You lose the game if you commit three successive fouls in one game. (Remainder moved to Rule 1.22)
3.7 Stalemate
If a referee judges that the table is in a position such that any attempt to pocket or move a ball will result in loss of game, and each player has had three consecutive innings without significantly changing the position, the referee will declare a stalemate. The game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again. (AR p. 100)
46 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
RULES SECTION 4
10-BALL
4.1 The Game
10-Ball is played with a cue ball and nine object balls numbered 1 through 10. You shoot the balls in ascending numerical order, receiving credit for any ball legally pocketed. The 10-ball is the game winning ball. The object of the game is to pocket the 10-ball on any legal shot. The game is played by two players or two teams.
4.2 10-Ball Rack
The balls are racked as follows (see Figure 3-1):
e. in a diamond shape with the 1-ball as the apex ball on the foot spot;
f. the rows behind the apex are parallel to the foot string;
g. the 10-ball is in the middle of the row of three balls;
h. the remaining balls are placed at random.
4.3 Break Requirements
1. You begin the break with ball in hand behind the head string. The cue ball must contact the 1-ball before any other ball or cushion or it is a foul. You must either pocket a ball or cause at least four object balls to contact one or more cushions, or it is a foul.
2. Jumped object balls other than the 10-ball are not returned to the table. If the 10-ball is jumped, it is spotted. Apex ball on foot spot Apex 1 10 Figure 4-1
47 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE3. If you legally pocket a ball, you continue to shoot. Your inning ends if you do not pocket a ball or if you foul. If you legally pocket the 10-ball on the break, you win the game. If you foul on the break and pocket the 10-ball, it is spotted.
4.4 Push-out After the Break
1. If there was no foul on the break, the player taking the first shot after the break has the option to shoot a push-out. On a push-out:
e. you must notify your opponent before the shot and your opponent must acknowledge your intention;
f. the cue ball does not have to contact the lowest numbered ball first, or any object ball at all;
g. no ball has to contact a cushion
h. all other rules and fouls still apply.
2. Any object balls except the 10-ball that are pocketed on a push-out remain pocketed. If the 10-ball is pocketed it is spotted.
3. After a push-out, your opponent may:
c. accept the table in position and shoot, or;
d. require you to shoot again with the table in position.
4.5 Continuing Play
1. After the break (and push-out, if one occurs), play continues as follows:
e. the lowest numbered ball on the table must be the first object ball contacted by the cue ball or it is a foul;
f. if you legally pocket any ball your inning must continue;
g. the 10-ball is spotted if it is illegally pocketed or if it is jumped;
h. other jumped balls and illegally pocketed balls are not returned to the table.
2. When it is your inning, you must continue to shoot as long as you legally pocket a ball on each shot. Your inning ends if you do not legally pocket a ball.
48 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE3. The game is won by the player who legally pockets the 10-ball.
4.6 Three Successive Fouls
You lose the game if you commit three successive fouls in one game. (Remainder moved to Rule 1.22)
4.7 Stalemate
If a referee judges that the table is in a position such that any attempt to pocket or move a ball will result in loss of game, and each player has had three consecutive innings without significantly changing the position, the referee will declare a stalemate. The game will be replayed with the player who broke the game breaking again. (AR p. 100)
49
RULES SECTION 5
ONE POCKET
5.1 The Game
The game of One Pocket is played with a cue ball and fifteen object balls, numbered 1 through 15, using only the two pockets at the foot of the table for scoring. You score by pocketing object balls in your designated pocket. You win the game if you score eight balls before your opponent. The game is played by two players or two teams.
5.2 The Rack
The balls are racked as follows (see Figure 5-1):
a. in a triangle with the apex ball on the foot spot and all balls placed randomly;
b. the rows behind the apex are parallel to the foot string.
5.3 Choice of Pocket
Before the opening break of each game, the player breaking must choose one of the corner pockets at the foot of the table as their target pocket for that game. Their opponent must then accept the other corner pocket at the foot of the table as their target pocket for that game.
5.4 Break Requirements
You begin the opening break with cue ball in hand behind the head string. You must: Figure 5-1 Apex Apex ball on foot spot Legal scoring pockets OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUEa. legally pocket a ball in your target pocket, or
b. cause the cue ball to contact a ball and, after that contact, cause at least one object ball or the cue ball to contact a cushion.
It is a foul if you do not meet the opening break requirements.
5.5 Breaking Subsequent Racks
If a race or specific set of games is being played as a match, players must alternate breaking.
5.6 Continuing Play
All object balls are legal. You are not required to call ball and pocket. Legally pocketing a ball entitles you to continue your inning. Your inning ends if you do not legally pocket a ball in your target pocket.
5.7 Illegally Pocketed Ball
A ball is illegally pocketed if it goes in to one of the four “non-target” pockets. Illegally pocketed balls are spotted, but spotting is delayed until the shooter’s inning ends. If you legally pocket the last ball remaining on the table but have not yet won the game, all illegally pocketed balls being held for spotting are then spotted at once and your inning continues.
5.8 Scoring
A ball is legally pocketed if it is pocketed in a target pocket on a legal shot.
a. a ball legally pocketed ball in your target pocket counts as one ball for you;
b. if you foul, any ball pocketed in your target pocket on that shot does not count and must be spotted;
c. a ball pocketed by you in your opponent’s target pocket counts for your opponent;
d. if you commit a foul other than a scratch or jumped cue ball, any ball pocketed in your opponent’s target pocket counts for your opponent;
e. if you scratch or jump the cue ball off the table, any ball pocketed in your opponent’s target pocket does not count
for your opponent and must be spotted.
5.9 Foul Penalty
1. For each foul you commit you must spot one of your previously scored balls, reducing your score by one.
2. If you foul and have no previously scored object balls, you “owe one” for that foul and must spot balls after each scoring inning until all “owed balls” are eliminated.
5.10 Scratch or Jumped Cue Ball
It is a foul if you scratch or jump the cue ball off the table. Your opponent receives ball in hand behind the head string.
5.11 Jumped Balls
It is a foul if you jump any object ball off the table. The jumped ball is spotted and you are penalized one ball. Your opponent accepts the cue ball in position.
5.12 Deliberately Trapping or Wedging the Cue Ball
It is a foul if you use an illegal stroke to deliberately attempt to trap or wedge the cue ball in the jaw of a pocket. In addition to the one ball penalty for a foul, your opponent receives ball in hand behind the head string.
5.13 Three Successive Fouls - Penalty
You lose the game if you commit three successive fouls in one game.
(Remainder moved to Rule 1.22)
5.14 Spotting Forgotten Balls
If both players agree, forgotten balls may be spotted at any time after they are remembered. If either player objects to the earlier spotting, then any owed balls or illegally pocketed balls are spotted after the end of the next player’s inning. However, if game has not ended and there are no balls left on the table, the forgotten balls must all be spotted immediately.
5.15 Jump Shot Requirement
You may only use your playing cue to attempt jump shots.
52 OFFICIAL RULES OF THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
5.16 All Remaining Balls are Behind the Head String with Cue
Ball in Hand Behind the Head String
When you have ball in hand behind the head string and all remaining balls are also behind the head string, the object ball nearest the head string may be spotted upon your request. If two or more balls at an equal distance from the head string are nearest the head string, you may choose which ball to spot.
5.17 End of Game
The game ends when one player or team has legally pocketed eight balls and does not “owe” any balls. If you pocket a ball that brings your opponent’s score to eight balls, you have lost the game unless you scratch or jump the cue ball off the table on the same stroke.
53
RULES SECTION 6
14.1 CONTINUOUS
6.1 The Game
14.1 Continuous (also called “Straight Pool”) is a call shot game played with a cue ball and fifteen object balls numbered 1 through 15. You are allowed to pocket the first 14 balls of the rack, but before shooting the 15th ball, the 14 previously pocketed balls are racked leaving the apex space vacant. After the 14 balls have been racked, you continue to shoot by attempting to pocket the 15th ball while simultaneously breaking out some of the 14 racked balls so your run may continue. The object of the game is to score a predetermined point total before your opponent. The game is played by two players or two teams.
6.2 The Rack
For the opening break, the balls are racked as follows (see Figure 6-1):
a. in a triangle with the apex ball on the foot spot;
b. the rows behind the apex are parallel to the foot string;
c. on the row at the rear of the rack the 1-ball must be on the corner to your right and the 5-ball must be on the corner to your left;
d. all other balls are placed randomly.
6.3 Opening Break Requirement
You begin the opening break with cue ball in hand behind the head string. You must:
a. pocket a called ball in a called pocket or;
b. cause the cue ball to contact an object ball and, after that contact, cause the cue ball and at least two object balls to contact one or more cushions.
Failure to meet the opening break requirement is an opening break violation.
6.4 Opening Break Violation – Penalty
1. If you commit an opening break violation you are penalized 2 points. Your opponent may:
a. accept the table in position, or;
b. require you to re-rack all 15 balls and repeat the opening break.
This procedure continues until you meet the opening break requirement or your opponent accepts the table in position.
2. An opening break violation does not count as a foul under the Successive Foul Penalty Rule.
6.5 Scratch on Opening Break - Penalty
If you meet the opening break requirement and scratch, it is a foul and a one-point penalty. Any pocketed balls are spotted. Your opponent receives cue ball in hand behind the head string with all object balls in position. The foul counts as the first foul under the Successive Foul Penalty rule.
6.6 Scratch or Foul and Opening Break Violation - Penalty
1. If you scratch or foul on the opening break and fail to meet the opening break requirement, you are penalized 2 points. Your opponent may:
a. take cue ball in hand behind the head string with the table in position, or;
b. require you to re-rack all 15 balls and repeat the opening break.
2. This situation is considered a breaking violation only. No foul is charged for the scratch nor does this violation apply to the Successive Foul Penalty Rule.
6.7 Continuing Play
All object balls are legal. Legally pocketing a ball entitles you to continue your inning. Your inning ends if you do not legally pocket a ball.
6.8 Subsequent Racks
After you pocket the 14th ball of a rack, play stops temporarily while you rack the previously pocketed 14 balls. You rack the balls as before, but with the apex (foot spot) vacant and all balls placed randomly. Your inning then continues. You are not required to shoot at the 15th ball.6.9 Subsequent Racks - Position and Placement of Cue Ball and 15th Object Ball
|
When you prepare subsequent racks, the position of the cue ball and the 15th object ball determine their placement. Cue ball lies 15th ball lies |
In the rack or interfering with lowering the triangle |
Not in the rack or on the head spot |
On the head spot or interfering with spotting a ball on head spot |
||
|
In the rack or interfering with lowering the triangle |
15th ball: foot spot. Cue ball: in the kitchen |
15th ball: head spot. Cue ball: in position |
15th ball: center spot. Cue ball: in position |
||
|
Pocketed |
15th ball: foot spot |
||||
|
In the kitchen but not on head the spot |
15th ball: in position. Cue ball: head spot NO INTERFERENCE - |
||||
|
Not in the kitchen or the rack |
15th ball: in position. Cue ball: in the kitchen | ||||
|
On the head spot or interfering with spotting a ball on the head spot |
15th ball: in position. Cue ball: center spot | ||||