inside: Adult/Youth Leagues Now Forming! NEW - Scotch Doubles Leagues Now Forming! Cash Referral Program APA Match-Up Service

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1 CHALK TALK Team Information Packet Summer 2017 APA Pool League of Maryland (also serving Eastern West Virginia) inside: Adult/Youth Leagues Now Forming! NEW - Scotch Doubles Leagues Now Forming! Cash Referral Program APA Match-Up Service

2 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION INSIDE YOUR PACKET LEAGUE INFORMATION 4 Calendar of Events 6 Updating Player Information, Fill a Bye Promotion & Late Registration Policy 7 Membership Fees 8 Taking Care of Problems 9 Late Paperwork Penalties 10 New Session Checklist 12 League Fees 14 APA Bonus Point System, Non-Paid Players & Wildcard Eligibility 15 The APA Handicap System & Good Sportsmanship 16 Survival Rule PLAYOFF INFORMATION 17 How to Obtain Playoff Information 18 Playoff Dates & Times 19 Playoff Plaques & Playoff T-Shirts 20 Playoff Eligibility & Picture ID 21 Playoff Rules for 8-Ball & 9-Ball 8-BALL & 9-BALL SCOREKEEPING 22 Defensive Shots 23 How to Cheat the System 24 Sample 8-Ball Scoresheet 25 Sample 9-Ball Scoresheet LOCAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP 26 Eligibility Requirements PRE-REGISTERED TOURNAMENTS 28 8-Ball & 9-Ball Mega Singles Tournaments 29 APA Poolplayer Championships 30 8-Ball & 9-Ball Top Gun (MVP) Invitational Tournaments OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION 31 Local APA Skill Level Review Policy 32 APA 8-Ball Scotch Doubles Leagues 33 APA 9-Ball Scotch Doubles Leagues 2

3 34 APA Match-Up Service 35 Fall 2017 Team Registration Form 36 New Team Rewards 37 APA Referral Program 38 APA Master s Divisions 39 APA Member Discounts 40 Pool Etiquette 41 Online Member Services 42 NEW Adult/Juniors Leagues APA Pool League Office 8518 Fort Smallwood Road Pasadena, MD Phone: Toll Free: Fax: NEED TO LEAVE A MESSAGE AFTER HOURS? Call the APA Service Hotline 24/ Ext. 119 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00am - 4:30pm (Lunch 12:00-12:30) CLOSED ON FRIDAYS Operations Manager Kathy Melcavage (ext. 116) kathym@apapool.com Division Managers Kathy Frey (ext. 113) kathyf@apapool.com Kim Torbeck (ext. 117) kimt@apapool.com Tournament Manager Paula Belange (ext. 122) paulab@apapool.com Sales & Marketing Manager Melissa Frank (ext. 112) melissaf@apapool.com League Operators Terry & Valerie Justice (ext. 110) terryj@apapool.com Player Stats at Member Services Playoff and Tri-Annual Information Local APA Calendar Tournament Registration ONLINE APAPool.com APA Facebook Business Page Facebook Group Page Weekly Play Information Copies of the Offi cial Team Manual & Local Bylaws Other important news and information

4 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION CALENDAR OF LOCAL LEAGUE EVENTS APRIL Spring Tier-1 & Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Divisions ; ) Played Locally 28 Spring 9-Ball Tier-1 Divisional Finals (Divisions ) New Green Room 29 Spring 8-Ball Tier-1 Divisional Finals (Divisions 1-24, 25-48) New Green Room 30 Spring 9-Ball Tier-1 Divisional Finals (Div ) New Green Room April 30-May 6 APA Summer Session 8-Ball & 9-Ball Leagues Begin in the Outlying Counties (Div ) 6 Spring 8-Ball Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Div. 1-24, 25-48) New Green Room 7 Spring 9-Ball Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Div ) New Green Room 7 APA Adult/Juniors Local Team Championship New Green Room Spring Session Tier-1 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 1) New Green Room Spring Session Tier-1 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 2) New Green Room Memorial Day Holiday Observed No Matches Played April 30-May 6 APA Summer Session Mixed Format, Adult/Juniors, Masters, and Scotch Doubles Leagues Begin (Div ) MAY Ball Doubles Championship Part of the APA Showdown Series Las Vegas, NV Ball Shootout Part of the APA Poolplayer Championships Las Vegas, NV 3-6 MiniMania Las Vegas, NV Ball Wheelchair Championship Part of the APA Showdown Series Las Vegas, NV Ball Doubles Championship Part of the APA Showdown Series Las Vegas, NV Ball Classic Championship Part of the APA Poolplayer Championships Las Vegas, NV 5 Spring 9-Ball Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Div ) New Green Room JUNE 2-3 Spring Session Tier-2 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 1) New Green Room 9-10 Spring Session Tier-2 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 2) New Green Room $140,000+ World Qualifier 8-Ball, 9-Ball, Masters & Mixed Format (Weekend # 1) New Green Room 19 Deadline to Register for the 8-Ball Top Gun Invitational Tournament $140,000+ World Qualifier 8-Ball, 9-Ball, Masters, & Mixed Format (Weekend # 2) New Green Room 26 Deadline to Register for the 9-Ball Top Gun Invitational Tournament JULY 3 Deadline to Register for the Summer Division Rep Meeting & Tournament 4 Independence Day No Matches Played 4 APAPOOL.COM

5 8 8-Ball Top Gun Invitational Tournament Doors Open at 11am - Tournament Starts at 12Noon New Green Room 10 Deadline to Register for the Summer Session 8-Ball & 9-Ball Mega Singles Tournaments APA Juniors Championship Davenport, Iowa 15 9-Ball Top Gun Invitational Tournament Doors Open at 11am - Tournament Starts at 12Noon New Green Room 22 Division Rep Meeting & Tournament Doors Open at 5pm - Meeting Starts at 6pm Tournament Starts at 7pm New Green Room 24 Deadline to Register 8-Ball & 9-Ball Teams for the Fall Session APA Fall Session Mixed Format, Adult/ Juniors, Masters, and Scotch Doubles Leagues Begin (Div ) $500,000 APA 8-Ball World Pool Championship Las Vegas, NV APA Masters Championship Las Vegas 25 Summer 9-Ball Tier-1 Divisional Finals (Divisions ) New Green Room 26 Summer 8-Ball Tier-1 Divisional Finals (Divisions 1-24, 25-48) New Green Room 26 Vegas Make-Up Matches (Div ) 1pm Played Locally 27 Summer 9-Ball Tier-1 Divisional Finals (Div ) New Green Room GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION 29 8-Ball & 9-Ball Mega Singles Tournament Doors Open at 11am - 9-Ball Starts at 12Noon 8-Ball Starts at 6pm New Green Room 30-Aug 5 Summer Session 8-Ball & 9-Ball Tier-1 & Tier-2 Semi-Finals Played Locally AUGUST 5 Vegas Teams Bon Voyage Party 1pm - Invitation Only New Green Room 6-12 APA Fall Session 8-Ball & 9-Ball Leagues Begin in Baltimore City & Baltimore & Howard Co Summer Tier-1 & Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Divisions ; ) Played Locally $100,000 APA 9-Ball World Pool Championship Las Vegas, NV APA Mini Mania Las Vegas, NV APA Jack & Jill Championship Las Vegas, NV APA Fall Session 8-Ball & 9-Ball Leagues Begin in the Outlying Counties (Div ) SEPTEMBER 1-4 Labor Day Weekend No Matches Played 8 Summer 9-Ball Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Divisions ) New Green Room 9 Summer 8-Ball Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Divisions 1-24, 25-48) New Green Room 10 Summer 9-Ball Tier-2 Divisional Finals (Div ) New Green Room Summer Session Tier-1 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 1) New Green Room Summer Sessions Tier-1 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 2) New Green Room OCTOBER Summer Session Tier-2 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 1) New Green Room Summer Session Tier-2 Tri-Annuals (Weekend # 2) New Green Room APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 5

6 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION Updating Player Information We no longer send Player Verification Forms in your Team Envelope each session. If you have a change of address, phone number, address, last name, etc., you can go to Member Services by visiting www. apapool.com,, clicking on Log In or Create Account (if you don t already have one) to update your information. You may also call your Division Manager at our local league office by calling (410) and entering your 3-digit division number, or their direct extension. We now send an to each player, each session, showing their information that we have on file (name, date of birth, address, phone number, etc.) so that they can see if something needs to be updated. FILL A BYE PROMOTION LIKE $100 CASH? Help us fill the "Bye" in your division!* If after week # 2, you notice that your schedule shows a BYE, call the League Office to find out if a team is still needed to even out the number of teams in your division. If so, you could be eligible to earn cash as follows: Split your team to fill the Bye and both Captains will each receive $50 cash! Both teams must maintain at least a minimum of 3 players from the original roster. OR Talk a friend into putting in a team that fills the Bye, and you will receive $100 cash! (Provided no team drops within the first 6 weeks of the session) Hurry! First Come, First Served! To be eligible for APA Cash Awards, you must call Kathy Melcavage, our Operations Manager, at Ext. 116 and personally register the team. Your week # 5 roster will determine your eligibility for the "Split A Team" or "Fill The Bye" Promotions. APA Cash Awards will be issued on week # 8 of the session. *Only valid between week #2 & week #4 LATE REGISTRATION New teams who are added to the schedule after the session has already started will continue to receive late entry points and bonus points... in 8-Ball, 6 points plus bonus for each prior week of play... in 9-Ball, 40 points plus bonus for each prior week of play. To encourage current teams to re-register on-time for the next session, and to stop teams from intentionally waiting and coming in after the session has started, and jumping ahead of some of the teams in the standings, the following policy is now in effect: Re-Registering teams, who wait and come in after the new session has already started, will receive late entry points, as mentioned previously, but no bonus point(s). Please re-register your team on-time! Teams that drop and then rebuild (with 4 or more different players) and rejoin after the session has started, will not be penalized. 6 APAPOOL.COM

7 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES Membership fees are due the first night a player shoots GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION Remember to have all new APA members and all returning non-paid APA members, pay their $25 Annual Membership before you allow them to shoot for your team. Also, have all unpaid players (even returning unpaid previous APA Members) fill out one of the enclosed applications and return it in tonight s envelope. Good Record Keeping Record (in the lower left-hand corner of the scoresheet) the names of all players who pay their membership fees tonight, along with the amounts being paid. Any team that allows two or more players to play without a current paid APA membership will receive zero points for the week or weeks involved (including bonus points). If a team allows a single player to shoot without submitting their membership fee, they will lose the points won in that individual match, plus their bonus points. Their opponents only receive credit for the points they actually earned. Collect the fees before allowing the players to shoot! Checks or Money Orders Only Enclose Check or Money Order Only! Make Payable to the APA Pool League. Do not send cash. Repeat, do not send cash. Loss of cash is your responsibility! APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 7

8 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION ADDRESSING ISSUES Problems during the regular season? Check out these suggestions. 1 TALK IT OUT Try to resolve the problem by talking with the other Team Captain (off to the side away from all teammates). If it s a rules question, resolve it with your Local Bylaws or APA Official Team Manual (be sure to take them with you to every match). You may wish to compromise or even concede the point... but above all, don t argue or be rude to each other. If it s a sportsmanship problem, get the other Captain off to the side and ask them to please have their player correct the situation. 2 ASK FOR HELP If the situation cannot be resolved, call one of your Division Reps and ask them to assist you. If it s a rules question, your Rep will try and help you find it in their copy of the Local Bylaws or Official Team Manual. They are not authorized to quote rules or policy, simply help you locate the page where the answer to your question can be found. It is still your responsibility to have your Official Team Manual and your Local Bylaws with you (not rely on your Rep to have their copies with them). If it is a sportsmanship problem, they can get on the phone with the other Captain and try to help get the situation under control. REMEMBER, the main reason you are there is to have fun, meet people, and play pool! Team Captains who are noncooperative or who cause sportsmanship problems, will be removed as an APA Team Captain(s) indefinitely! Cooperate with each other! It might be nice if you shook each other's hand and introduced yourselves at the beginning of the night - or at least at the beginning of each player match. 3 SUSPEND THE MATCH IN QUESTION If it s simply a rules question that cannot be resolved, suspend that specific match, notify the other team that you are filing a protest, and immediately start up your next match. If it s a sportsmanship problem, suspend that specific match and if necessary all remaining matches and notify the other team that you are filing an official protest. Both teams must mark OFFICIAL PROTEST on their scoresheets and submit their write-ups, along with a $25 Protest Fee that night. 8 APAPOOL.COM

9 LATE PAPERWORK It can cost your team its bonus points Don t rely on anyone else to drop off your paperwork. This includes your own team members, the opposing team, or your tavern owner. If they forget and fail to drop off your team envelope prior to the required day and time or are unaware that they are supposed to place it inside the drop box, it will not reach the league office for processing, and your team will not be awarded the bonus point(s) offered for on-time paperwork! Each week (following league play) it is the responsibility of the Team Captain to assure that all the team s paperwork has been completed (scoresheet, membership applications, etc. filled out); and that the team s payment envelope has been placed in the larger team envelope (with a check or money order enclosed); and that the team envelope is placed inside the drop-box located at one of the designated "DROP-OFF" locations shown on your team envelope. If you turn in your envelope late, a temporary envelope will be issued to your team the following week and will be available at your pick-up location. Being late with your paperwork, three (3) or more times during the session will cause your team to become ineligible for the wildcard drawing (the league office may also elect to remove the Team Captain at that time). Your team envelope may be picked up at your designated "PICK-UP" location any time after the day and time listed on your envelope. If you cannot find your team envelope at your designated pick-up location, please use or make a copy of your opponent s scoresheet or print your scoresheet It is the responsibility of the Team Captain to assure that all the team s paperwork has been completed by simply logging onto apapool.com and clicking on the Member Services tab. When the matches are over, clearly mark your scoresheet (and your check or money order) with your division and team number and place both your scoresheet and your check or money order in your opponent s payment envelope, or put them in a separate envelope and place that envelope inside the drop box within the drop-off time period. Do not use CASH! The league office cannot be responsible for the loss of your cash. The captain of a team who fails to turn in paperwork and fees two (2) weeks in a row will be flagged and will be removed as captain. GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 9

10 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION NEW SESSION CHECKLIST Whenever you contact the league office, make sure that you know your division/team number and the membership numbers of the players that you are inquiring about. This will allow the office to give you the most efficient service possible. On matters involving the skill levels of your players or matters involving rosters, scoresheets, finances, patches, rule books and other team materials, your contact will be your Office Division Manager. Their name and telephone extension should be listed on the bottom of your scoresheets and can also be found in the front of this book. You may also use our automated menu system, which allows you to simply enter your 3-digit division number to reach your specific Division Manager. For other skill level and sportsmanship complaints, write a detailed note and place it in your payment envelope... or submit your complaint online at or via . Check the spelling of the names of your team members. A slight difference in spelling could allow your member s scores to be assigned to an incorrect membership number, or to another member s scoring record. Call your Division Manager with any concerns. Check the membership numbers of your team members. If they play on more than one team, their membership number should be the same for all teams, so please remind them to verify that. Again, call your Division Manager if you feel something s wrong. If any of your team members' information changes during the session, please call your Division Manager at the office so that their records can be updated. Make sure that you understand the Divisional Playoff eligibility requirements for each and every member of your team, particularly the number of matches that they must play for your team during the current session, as well as the National Qualifier eligibility requirements for your team as a whole. You may have matches forfeited to your team late in the session, preventing some of your team members from becoming eligible for the playoffs; therefore, have your members get their matches in as soon as possible. If you have questions, or need to verify eligibility requirements, please call your Division Manager. Our Local Bylaws over-ride the APA Official Team Manual for all local play. You can download a pdf version to your smart phone, of both our Local Bylaws and the APA Official Team Manual at www. apapool.com. You should have access to both manuals at all times. This will eliminate any possible disputes over rules or league policies related to your match play. Please do not store the manuals or rule books in your weekly team envelope. You can also contact your Division Reps if you need help resolving a problem. They are not permitted to quote rules or policy, but can help you find answers to your questions in the Local Bylaws or the APA Official Team Manual. If you have members on your team who have played in the APA, anywhere, or at any time in the past, make sure that their membership numbers and name spellings are correct. If they have played on an APA team in another APA league area, let us know. This is extremely important since match points could be forfeited as the result of having played that continued on page APAPOOL.COM

11 New Session Checklist continued from page 10 member at a lower skill level than allowed. Obviously, this could also affect your division standings and your playoff opportunities. If an APA member is new to 9-Ball, but is established in 8-Ball, meaning they have played 10 or more lifetime 8-Ball matches, they will start 9-Ball at their existing 8-Ball level. If they have less than ten 8-Ball matches played or have never played in the APA in either format, they would start 9-Ball as a NEW player. The same applies to a member joining an 8-Ball team. If an APA member has at least six (6) prior lifetime matches played in a specific game format, they only need to play four (4) times in that format with your team (during the session) to gain eligibility for Playoffs and Tri-Annuals. If they had less than six (6) prior matches played in that specific game format, they must play at least six (6) times for your team during the session. If you have new APA members on your team (members who have never played in the APA), make sure membership applications are completed and membership fees sent in the night they first shoot; and that their names are spelled correctly. Please note that they must play at least six (6) matches for your team (during the session) to gain eligibility for the Playoffs and Tri-Annuals. As captain, you are responsible for who plays on the team, when they play, how they handle themselves, and any problems that may occur during their matches; along with collecting and sending in league fees; and picking up and turning in paperwork. Remind all of your players that your team will be playing according to our Local Bylaws and the APA Official Team Manual... and that any problems that they may encounter during their matches will be handled by either you or your co-captain. This prevents your players from getting into trouble by trying to take care of things on their own. No member is expected to memorize all of the rules, however your Local Bylaws and the APA Official Team Manual should be used as a reference during your matches to help settle rules questions. Feel free to contact your Division Reps for help during your matches. Remember, Local Bylaws over-ride the APA Official Team Manual for local play. Monitor your paperwork each week to ensure that points, fees, names, membership numbers, matches played and skill levels are correct. Find out the name and telephone extension of your League Office Division Manager, and call them if you have any questions, or use our automated menu system which allows you to simply enter your division number to reach your specific Division Manager. GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 11

12 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION LEAGUE FEES Weekly Fees Are Not Increasing at This Time! Earlier last year, I announced that starting with the Summer 2017 Session, our local weekly fees would increase to $45 per team to keep up with the cost of living. Many of our members are struggling in today s economy just to make ends meet, as are many of our hosting facilities. That said, I am officially announcing that our local weekly fees will remain at $40 per team for at least the near future! To receive your weekly bonus points and to ensure your finances are applied accurately... Complete the fees section of the score sheet (bottom left corner) Rate your opponent with a fun factor rating Pay all non-paid members the first night they shoot Captains, get in the habit of collecting the individual fees from your players prior to the start of each of their matches. Remember, this is a weekly fee, not a per player match fee. If you or your opponents forfeit any or all of the matches, both teams are still responsible for paying the full $40.00 weekly fee. Captains, you may wish to collect a few dollars from each of your players at the beginning of the session to hold in reserve to cover possible forfeits. If your team has a scheduled bye, weekly fees do not apply. Teams are allowed to pay for part or all of the session in advance, if they wish. Please Make Your Checks or Money Orders Payable To: APA Pool League. The APA cannot be responsible for lost or stolen cash! It is the Captain s responsibility to collect and send in the proper fees each week. The following describes different situations that might occur, and APA policy: Over-payment of fees will result in a team credit. The amount overpaid will be shown as a credit on your following week s scoresheet. Credits may be used for weekly fees, memberships, patches, etc. Under-payment or non-payment of fees will result in the team being past due. Past Due amounts will also be shown on your next week s scoresheet. The team will automatically lose its bonus point(s) for that week and all subsequent weeks, until all fees continued on page 13 A Note to Captains: get in the habit of collecting the individual fees from your players prior to the start of each of their matches. you may wish to collect a few dollars from each of your players at the beginning of the session to hold "in reserve" to cover possible forfeits. It's your responsibility to collect and send in the proper fees each week. Captains who fall more than two (2) weeks in arrears will be "flagged" and removed as Captain. 12 APAPOOL.COM

13 League Fees continued from page 12 are paid and up to date. The Team Captain, not the establishment owner, is responsible for unpaid fees. If your Team Captain becomes dishonest or unreliable, remove them as Captain immediately. Once a Team Captain becomes unreliable and has to be removed by the league office, they may also be prohibited from being either a Captain or Co- Captain for up to two years. Captains who fall more than two (2) weeks in arrears will be flagged and removed as Captain. FINANCES FROM LAST SESSION Divisional Finals from last session aren't normally played and entered into our system until after the new session is underway. If your team has any past due fees or credits from the prior session, they will show up on your New Session s scoresheet and are due that night. You must pay any past dues that show up on your scoresheet THAT WEEK to avoid Loss of Points. Remember, these may be past dues from the prior session or the playoffs and should have been paid at that time! Bounced checks will be assessed a $20.00 fee, in order to cover administrative overhead. Your team will not lose the bonus point(s) for the week that the check was originally sent in, however the returned check fee and all outstanding team fees must be paid the week the past due shows up on your scoresheet in order to avoid losing that week s bonus point(s). Checks may not be used to cover other bounced checks... money orders only! If your team should fold, the fees that would have been normally paid during the remainder of the session will still have to be paid, along with the revenue that was lost from the teams which you would have been scheduled to play. The Team Captain will be held responsible for these fees. Other team members may also be held responsible (based upon the circumstances involved). The league office has a Survival Rule policy in place that can help keep your team together for the remainder of the session, thus avoiding any penalties. If the team which you are scheduled to play fails to show up you must still pay your weekly fees. If they are dropped from the division schedule the following week your weekly fees from the previous week will be credited to your team account. APA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES APA annual membership fees are $25.00 per member, $26.50 in West Virginia (includes 6% sales tax). Junior memberships (under 18) are only $ Annual membership fees are due the night a player first plays in the APA and are renewable every January thereafter... on the first night they actually shoot. If you pay your membership fee after August 15th, the following year s renewal is pro-rated (until March 1) to only $15.00 ($15.90 in West Virginia). All other Annual Memberships (renewals) are $25.00 ($26.50 in WV). Please do not play unpaid members, unless you are paying their membership fee that evening. Any team that allows two or more players to play without a current paid APA membership will receive zero points for the week or weeks involved (including bonus points). If a team allows a single player to shoot without submitting their membership fee, they will lose the points won in that individual match, plus their bonus points. Their opponents only receive credit for the points they actually earned. Unpaid members can be identified by the letter N next to their skill level on the roster and scoresheet. Any and all non-paid members will be removed from the team roster after you turn in your week seven (7) scoresheets. GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 13

14 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION APA BONUS POINT SYSTEM Your team will receive "2" bonus points in 8-Ball and "10" bonus points in 9-Ball each week if all the following conditions are met! You turn in your team envelope at your dropoff location on time (immediately following league play or no later than 4:00pm the following day or as specified on the team envelope)... and Your scoresheet is filled out completely, including scoring your opponent s sportsmanship for the night, and the information written is legible... and You have enclosed a completely filled-out membership application (and membership fees) for each new player added to your team roster and who played in a match that night... and You have collected and enclosed your team's "full" weekly fees (Remember, FULL weekly team fees are due each week, regardless to the number of matches played or forfeited). No weekly fees are due for "scheduled" byes. Please use a check or money order made payable to the: APA Pool League. The League office cannot be responsible for loss of cash! There will be a $20 service fee for all returned checks. PLAYING NON-PAID PLAYERS Your team will receive "0" points for the night (including bonus points) if you allow "non-paid" players to shoot! The "N" preceding a player's skill level on your team roster indicates that the player is not paid. If you allow multiple players (2 or more) to shoot without submitting their fees, your team will receive "0" points for the night (no exceptions). It is the Team Captain s responsibility, not the tavern owner s, to collect all fees and assure that the team WILDCARD ELIGIBILITY Your team will lose Wildcard Eligibility if, during the session Your team envelope is turned in late "3" or more times... or 2. Your team forfeits "6" or more total matches (Week # 1-4 forfeits DO NOT count)... or forfeits 3 or more matches the last week of play... or 3. Your team earns 2 points or less in 8-ball or 30 points or less in 9-ball on the last week of the session... or 4. Your team is deemed ineligible due to sportsmanship or handicapping violations. envelope is turned in on time. Please be sure to fill-out the "Fees Section" in the bottom left corner of your SCORESHEET. Our office will no longer automatically apply weekly team fees towards unpaid memberships. You should have all new members complete a membership application and pay their $25 prior to shooting. If you forget and allow a single (1) non-paid player to shoot and their application and membership fee is not received in your team envelope... your team will lose all bonus points for the night, along with any points won in that individual match. The other team gets credit only for the points they actually earned. 14 APAPOOL.COM

15 For the Love of the Game... Win or Lose Always Be a Good Sportsman! Don t Let your Team Become a DQ Statistic! One man practicing sportsmanship is far better than a hundred teaching it. Knute Rockne The APA Handicap System Good Sportsmanship GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION In any sport that uses a handicap system, there are always people who try to manipulate the system in order to gain an unfair advantage over their opponent. Commonly referred to as sandbagging, this unethical practice of deliberately playing below your ability to keep your skill level down is better described as cheating. Because, plain and simple, that s what it is. APA League s handicap and scoring system, The Equalizer, contains a number of anti-sandbagging measures, but it all starts with proper scorekeeping. The importance of proper scorekeeping, which includes identifying and correctly marking defensive shots, cannot be stressed enough. In fact, not marking defensive shots properly is the number one reason teams get disqualified during Local and National Team Championships. When a team that has advanced into a prize money bracket at an APA National Championship event is disqualified, one of the penalties is the forfeiture of their prize money. Forfeited prize money is then distributed to the teams that were eliminated earlier in the competition by the disqualified team. In addition, all teams eliminated by the disqualified team are reviewed and considered for an invitation to compete in the following year s National Championship tournament. It s important to remember that in order for sandbagging to take place, both players and teams must fail to follow the rules. The shooter must deliberately cheat, and the opponent must fail to properly mark the scoresheet. If scores are properly marked initially, there d be no successful sandbagging, and disqualification wouldn t be an issue. Keep in mind, marking defensive shots does not affect the honest player. Be wary of players who argue against marking defensive shots! So what exactly is a defensive shot? The APA s Official Team Manual states, A defensive shot is a shot where the shooter deliberately misses so as to pass his turn at the table on to his opponent. It is a shot where there is no intent on the part of the shooter to pocket a ball of his category. Intent is the key word. Think of it this way anytime you re not playing offense, you re playing defense. If you re trying to pocket your object ball, you re playing offense. Any other shot is a defensive shot and should be marked as such on the scoresheet. Yes, it s really that simple. And every year teams lose thousands of dollars because they re disqualified over something that simple. To help educate teams and players, APA put together a series of videos on understanding defensive shots and proper scorekeeping. These videos can be found at youtube.com/apaleagues and are a must-see for every APA member! It just might save your team from being disqualified. No one likes to have to disqualify a team at the Local or National Team Championships. However, it s important for each team to have a fair chance of winning, and sometimes disqualifying a team is necessary to protect the integrity of the event. REMEMBER: Proper Scorekeeping = Accurate Handicapping = Fair Play What does it mean to be a good sportsman? Merriam-Webster defines sportsman as, a person who shows sportsmanship. Fair enough, but what does it mean to show sportsmanship? Another glance at Merriam- Webster and we see that sportsmanship is defined as, conduct (as fairness, respect for one s opponent and graciousness in winning or losing) becoming to one participating in a sport. Now we re getting somewhere fairness, respect for one s opponent and graciousness in winning or losing. How many times have you played a team that exemplified those characteristics? And, how many times have you played a team that didn t? Which team would you rather play? And more importantly, which team are you on? Good manners are essential for all competitive sports; sportsmanship is very important to the honor of APA Leagues. Congratulating your opponent when he makes a good shot and celebrating with your opponent when he wins adds character to the game. Keep proper score, shake hands, give high fives, smile and talk friendly to your opponent and the opposing teams. All of these subtle acts encourage sportsmanship and you ll have more fun as you play each week. Have Fun. Meet People. Play Pool. that s what APA is all about. The League was founded on the premise of offering amateur poolplayers the opportunity to get together with friends, family and co-workers each week for a fun, friendly and relaxing time playing pool. When opponents show good sportsmanship, everybody has a good time win or lose! APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 15

16 GENERAL LEAGUE INFORMATION APA SURVIVAL RULE Even after the first four weeks, if players on your team become unreliable, you may still be able to get help by invoking the "Survival Rule"! 1The Survival Rule can only be used during regular session play, not for playoffs, or other Higher Level Tournament play. Items (2) through (8) listed below must be complied with. 2You must notify the opposing team prior to the start of the 1st match that you are invoking the Survival Rule and as to which players you are dropping and adding. 3Your team roster must be down to six (6) or less reliable players. Unreliable players still listed on your team roster and scoresheet must be removed. Draw a line through the player(s) name on your scoresheet that you want removed and write the word drop beside their name(s). You may then add enough players to bring your team up to a maximum of seven (7) total members... no more! Mark Survival Rule on your score sheet. 4None of the player(s) that you choose to add may have a skill level greater than SL-4 in the specific format for which they are being added, and they must have at least ten (10) actually played matches in either APA 8-Ball or APA 9-Ball. Note that an APA member who has ten 9-Ball scores (who is new to 8-Ball) may still be added to an 8-Ball team (at their 9-Ball skill level). The same applies to a player who is new to 9-Ball but has at least (10) actually played 8-Ball scores being added to a 9-Ball team for survival. It is permissible to add a brand new female player to your team for survival. You must have League Operator approval (in advance) to add any new male player(s) to your team or to add any player(s) whose skill level is greater than a SL-4. PLAYERS NOT SHOWING UP? NEED HELP? 5The survival rule cannot be invoked by any team which is currently in 1st thru 4th place in a seven (7) to sixteen (16) team division or 1st thru 3rd place in a five (5) or six (6) team division. You may have to wait until your team drops down in the standings. 6If the survival rule is to be invoked by a team which cannot comply with the 23 Point Rule (using the team s latest roster) all above rules apply...and the player(s) added must have at least (20) scores and must be approved by the League Operator (in advance). 7All added players must still play the required number of matches, in order to be eligible for the playoffs and other Higher Level Tournament play. Membership dues must also be paid that night (if non-paid). Teams may be limited to the number of times that they are allowed to invoke the Survival Rule during a given session. 8During the SPRING session, National Rules prohibit any team who qualified in either the Summer or Fall Tri-Annuals from making any roster changes after week # 4. This means that if those specific teams elect to invoke the Survival Rule during the SPRING session, they will forfeit their rights to advance to the Local Team Championship. 16 APAPOOL.COM

17 HOW TO FIND OUT IF YOU MADE THE END OF SESSION PLAYOFFS Step 1 From the chart below, determine the day and time when the desired playoff information will be available from the League Office. Step 2 Call the League Office at ( ) and follow the instructions given by our automated Voice Mail System. Be sure you enter the correct three-digit Division #, when prompted to do so. Step 3 If you make it into the Playoffs, simply pick-up your team envelope at your regular designated pick-up location. Team Envelopes for the Baltimore area teams playing their Finals at the Green Room will be waiting for them at the Green Room tournament site. WHEN AND WHERE ARE THE TIER-1 AND TIER-2 SEMI FINALS PLAYED? Both Tier-1 and Tier-2 Semi- Finals will be played on the same night of play. Home field advantage goes to the team(s) that is higher in point standings (provided tables are available at their hosting location); otherwise, matches are to be played at the opponent s hosting location. If tables are unavailable at the opponent s hosting location, the match will be scheduled at one of the other taverns within the division; normally a tavern (with an available table) whose team finished higher in point standings. PLAYOFF INFORMATION IF YOU PLAY ON... Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday Call the office anytime after (6PM) Friday, July 28th for info on the Semi-Finals anytime after (6PM) Friday, August 4th for info on the Finals. Wednesday Call the office anytime after (6PM) Monday, July 31st for info on the Semi Finals anytime after (6PM) Monday, August 7th for info on the Finals. Thursday or Friday Call the office anytime after (6PM) Tuesday, August 1st for info on the Semi- Finals anytime after (6PM) Tuesday, August 8th for info on the Finals. Wildcard teams play in the Semi-Finals (July 30th August 5th) APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 17

18 PLAYOFF INFORMATION PLAYOFF DATES & TIMES Your specific Divisional Playoff Format is determined by the number of teams that are listed on your Division Schedule going into the last two weeks of the session. (13-16) Team Division If your team finishes in 1st place, you will advance directly to the Tier-1 Tri-Annual Championship. If your team finishes in 2nd place, you will advance directly to the Tier-1 Finals. If you finish in 3rd or 4th place, your team will advance to the Tier-1 Semi-Finals (3rd vs. 4th). If your team finishes in 5th, 6th, or 7th place, or draws the Wildcard slot, your team will play in the Tier-2 Semi-Finals (5th vs. Wildcard and 6th vs. 7th). DIVISIONAL SEMI-FINALS BOTH BOTH TIER-1 TIER-1 AND AND TIER-2 TIER-2 SEMI-FINALS ARE ARE PLAYED PLAYED LOCALLY JULY APRIL 30TH 16TH AUGUST 22ND5TH (9-12) Team Division If your team finishes in 1st place, you will advance directly to the Tier-1 Finals. If you finish in 2nd or 3rd, you will advance to the Tier- 1 Semi-Finals (2nd vs 3rd). If your team finishes in either 4th, 5th, or 6th place, or draws the wild card slot, your team will play in the Tier- 2 Semi-Finals (4th vs. Wildcard and 5th vs. 6th). (7-8) Team Division If your team finishes in either 1st or 2nd place, your team will advance directly to the Tier-1 Finals. If your team finishes in either 3rd, 4th, or 5th place... or draws the Wildcard slot, your team plays in the Tier-2 Semi-Finals (3rd vs. Wildcard and 4th vs 5th). (6) Team Division If your team finishes in either 1st or DIVISIONAL FINALS D nd place, your team will advance directly to the Tier-1 Finals. If your team finishes in 3rd place your team will advance directly to the Tier-2 Finals. If your team finishes in either 4th place or draws the Wildcard slot, your team plays in the Tier-2 Semi-Finals (4th vs. Wildcard). (5) Team Division Tier-1 Format Only! 1st vs. Wildcard and 2nd vs. 3rd place in the Semi- Finals. Winners advance directly to the Finals. (4) Team Division Tier-1 Format Only! If your team finishes in 1st place you will advance directly to the Finals (No Semi-Finals Required). If your team finishes in either 2nd place or draws the Wildcard, your team plays in the Semi-Finals (2nd vs. Wildcard). Tier-1 Finals - Saturday, August 26th at 1pm Tier-2 Finals - Saturday, September 9th at 1pm These fi nals will all be played at The New Green Room D D Tier-1 Finals - Saturday, August 26th at 7pm Tier-2 Finals - Saturday, September 9th at 7pm Tier-1 Finals - Friday, August 25th at 8pm Tier-2 Finals - Friday, September 8th at 8pm D Tier-1 Finals - Sunday, August 27th at 12 Noon Tier-2 Finals - Sunday, September 10th at 12 Noon D D : Mixed Format, Adult/Juniors, Masters, and Scotch Doubles, along with 8-Ball and 9-Ball Outlying County Divisional Finals will be played locally August 6th August 12th. 18 APAPOOL.COM

19 Take Your P I C K Plaques or T-Shirts? Your team has a choice! If your team wins the Divisional Championship (or is the HPF in our Team Divisions), your team will have an option of either APA Plaques or APA T-Shirts! T-Shirts have different designs each year and come in different colors each session. We will send out forms during the playoffs, allowing the winning teams to lock in their choice at that time. Please Note: We cannot mix and match between the two; the team must choose either all Plaques or all T-Shirts. PLAYOFF INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 19

20 PLAYOFF INFORMATION End of Session Playoff Eligibility Criteria P lease make sure that the players on your team play at least the minimum number of matches with your team, in order to be eligible for the playoffs. If a player had at least 6" lifetime matches played in the same game format prior to the start of this session, they only need to play 4 matches with your team to be eligible. If they had less than 6 matches played in the same game format prior to the start of this session, they must play 6 matches with your team. Please keep in mind that matches played during the session on other teams or in another game format cannot be used to satisfy the eligibility requirements for your team members. Players must meet the above requirements. During the last few weeks of the session your team may have matches forfeited to it from the other teams (which may prevent some of your players from shooting the required number of times required to gain eligibility to play in the post session playoffs). Do not wait to get your players qualifi ed! It is extremely important that you have all of your team members shoot the minimum number of matches required as early in the session as possible! Any team members who have been removed from your team s roster, or have been marked Not Eligible for failing to play the minimum number of matches with your team, or who are listed as Suspended... are not eligible to play, coach, or advise the coach... and their skill level cannot be used for 23 Point Rule purposes. Players who owe money may still play in a player match; however, if the entire amount due is not included with that night s paperwork... their match will be considered forfeited. 20 APAPOOL.COM

21 PLAYOFF RULES 8-BALL SPECIFICS Do not race to your skill level! Use the chart on the scoresheet! The team that scores the most points... or the first team to reach "8" points wins. Once a team can no longer win, the team match is considered over! In the case of a tie (at the end of the five matches), the team who won three of the five matches is the winner. All male 2's are to play as and count as 3's in the playoffs and in HLT events. PLAYOFF INFORMATION FOR BOTH 8-BALL & 9-BALL Only "1" time-out for all players, regardless of skill level. Players that are playing in the match must sit or stand in a neutral area away from their team. Check the top of your scoresheet to see which Rep is scheduled to referee your match. In our larger 9-16 team divisions, we usually have three Division Reps. The Rep listed on the scoresheet to the "left" is the Senior Rep and will referee or provide coverage for the Tier- 1 Semi-Finals. The Rep listed to their "right" will provide coverage for the match between the higher place team and the Wildcard team in the Tier-2 Semi-Finals; while the third Rep (listed under the other two on the scoresheet) will provide coverage for the match between The responsibility of your Division Rep is to call bad-hit/good-hit shots (when needed) and assist with rules questions (by helping you find answers to your questions in the APA National and Local Team Manuals)... not to "QUOTE" or interpret rules. If after checking your APA Manuals, you still need a rule CLARIFIED or if you run into sportsmanship problems that cannot be resolved, call our PLAYOFF HOTLINE immediately at BALL SPECIFICS the lower place teams in the Tier-2 Semi-Finals. In our 7-8 team Divisions there will be no Tier-1 Semi-Finals, requiring only two Division Reps to cover the Tier-2 Semi-Finals. The rep to the left (Senior Rep) will provide coverage for the match between 3rd Place and the Wildcard team; the Rep listed to the right will provide coverage for the match between the 4th and 5th place teams. In our 4-6 team Divisions the Division Rep listed to the left (Senior Rep) will coordinate the coverage of the Semi-Finals. In the Divisional Finals in the Outlying Counties (Division ), the Rep to the left (Senior Rep) will provide coverage for the Tier-1 Finals, while the Rep to their right will provide coverage for the Tier-2 Finals. In our larger divisions with three Reps, the Rep to the left (Senior Rep) The first team to reach "51" points wins. Once a team can no longer win, the match is considered over! In the case of a tie (50/50), the team who won three of the five matches wins. The "Two Senior Skill Level Player Rule" and the "23-Rule" still apply! Senior Skilled players defined as SL-6 or higher. All male 1's are to play as and count as 2's in the playoffs and in HLT events. will coordinate coverage. The Rep to their right will provide coverage for the Tier-1 Finals; the Rep listed below the other two (on the scoresheet) will provide coverage for the Tier-2 Finals. The Senior Rep will provide coverage for the other two Reps, as needed. If your team is scheduled to play a team on which a Division Rep is shooting, that Division Rep cannot act in any "official" capacity. If no Official is available, the two Team Captains may jointly chose someone to help call close hit shots (splithits go to the shooter - the referee's call is final). If you need any phone numbers, please call the league office. PLAYOFF HOTLINE # PLAYOFF INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 21

22 8-BALL & 9-BALL SCOREKEEPING 22 APAPOOL.COM

23 HOW TO By League Operator, Terry Justice F irst, before I teach you how to cheat the system, you ll have to be OK with a few things! First, you will have to be OK with the way people look at you how they look at people they perceive as dishonest how they look at people they label as a cheater, sandbagger, etc. Next, you will have to be OK with receiving un-earned victories and rewards! Anyone can beat their opponent with an unfair spot. Finally, you will have to be OK with spoiling the night for all of our honest APA members. The members who come out week after week to simply have some fun with their family and friends and play a little competitive pool the members who simply love the game and love having a good time the honest members who make up the overwhelming majority of our league. Everyone would like to make it to Vegas, but that s not the main reason most of our members play in the APA. The ones that get the most out of the APA are the ones who know that having fun each and every week is far more important that focusing too much on making it to Vegas. Cheat the System If you still want to learn How To Cheat The System, here goes! STEP 1: FIRST DON'T CALL YOUR SAFETIES! Bang the balls around and rack up the innings! Wait, I forgot the Equalizer System keeps players from getting away with that. If I recall, along with many other proprietary formulations, it adds in a bunch of safeties for you (just in case you forget to call them). Also, we run reports to evaluate players/teams that show us which players/teams mark safeties and which don t and how many safeties each player marks (on average). Sorry, on second thought, banging the balls around and not calling safeties might not work in helping keep your skill level down but it may get you labelled as someone who is attempting to manipulate the system and I m sure you don t want that to happen! STEP 2: OK LET'S TRY THIS! Join multiple teams and dump on a few of them so that your record doesn t look that great. Sorry, I forgot we run reports to check for that too! STEP 3: OK HERE'S ONE THAT'S SURE TO WORK! Just lose a bunch of matches to help offset your wins! Nope, not going to work for you either sorry! I forgot, the system is designed to assess only your best performances (over a specific timeframe) to determine your true ability. It doesn t even see or take into account dumped matches! On second thought since Steps 1-3 really don t work how about if those players/ teams who have been trying to work the system simply focus on HAVING FUN, MEETING PEOPLE, AND PLAYING POOL! You joined the APA to get out on league night and have some fun with your friends. You can t work the system, so why label yourself as a sandbagger by trying! Start having a really Fun night out! I would like to personally thank all of our members who go out every week to simply have fun and play some pool. You represent the over-whelming majority of our members again, thanks for playing in the APA! 8-BALL & 9-BALL SCOREKEEPING APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 23

24 8-BALL & 9-BALL SCOREKEEPING 24 APAPOOL.COM

25 8-BALL & 9-BALL SCOREKEEPING APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 25

26 LOCAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP (LTC) Eligibility Requirements 2018 APA LOCAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP (WORLD QUALIFIER) For teams who qualify in the Summer 2017, Fall 2017, or Spring 2018 Tri-Annuals If your team wins a World Qualifier slot (at one of the above Tri-Annual Championships), this information applies to you! Congratulations and please read this information very, very, carefully. For a team to retain its team eligibility to compete in the above World Qualifier, and to have the opportunity to advance to the APA World Pool Championships, the team (once qualified) must play all subsequent sessions leading up to the June World Qualifier. If qualified in 8-Ball, the team must remain in an APA 8-Ball league and if qualified in 9-Ball, the team must remain in an APA 9-Ball league. This eligibility requirement helps guarantee currentness and accuracy of skill level ratings. Teams who play in the Spring Session are already current and do not need to continue play in the Summer session. For a qualified team to retain its team eligibility, the team must maintain at least four (4) original team members on their roster during all subsequent sessions leading up to the June World Qualifier. The team must also remain competitive during subsequent sessions, especially the Spring Session. All non-competitive teams will be subject to a strict review by the APA Executive Review Committee and may face handicap re-evaluations or team disqualifications. Individual players must also remain personally competitive during the Spring Session. Non-competitive individual team members (felt to be dumping) will be reviewed by the APA Executive Review Committee and may face handicap re-evaluation or suspension. For an eligible team member to retain their individual player eligibility and be able to advance with their team to the World Qualifier and have the opportunity to advance to the APA World Pool Championships, all eligible team members must be listed on the qualified team Spring roster and shoot at least 4 times during regular Spring session play... and they must have at least 10 actually shot league match scores in their record prior to finishing the Spring Session program and entering the World Qualifier. continued on page 27 The first rounds of the $80,000 APA 8-Ball World Qualifier begins (8:00pm) Friday, June 15, 2018 at The New Green Room (tables available for practice at 7:00pm). There will be 72 teams competing in a modified double-elimination tournament with 16 of the teams advancing to the APA $500,000 APA World Pool Championships held August 13th-18th, 2018 at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The first rounds of the $55,000 APA 9-Ball World Qualifier begin (1:00pm) Saturday, June 16th, 2018 at The New Green Room. There will be 36 teams competing in a modified double-elimination tournament with 11 teams advancing to the APA $100,000 APA World Pool Championships held August 9th-13th, 2018 at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino. 26 APAPOOL.COM

27 Local Team Championship continued from page 26 If a player who was eligible to shoot on a team in the Spring Tri-Annuals, did not shoot enough times (in that specific format) during the end-ofsession playoffs and the Spring Tri-Annuals... to accumulate at least 10 total scores in their record (before exiting the Spring Tri-Annuals), they lose eligibility and cannot advance with their team to the World Qualifier (they also lose eligibility to receive additional awards and prizes). Subsequent Summer Session scores do not count towards the 10 required scores. If a team that qualifies in the Summer Tri-Annuals elects to drop an eligible player from their Fall roster, that player loses their individual player "originality" and "eligibility" and can no longer advance with their team to the World Qualifier or the APA World Pool Championships unless they are re-added to the team by week #4 of the Spring session and shoot at least 4 times with the team during the Spring session. If re-added to the roster (before week #4 of the Spring session); and if they shoot at least 4 times with the team during the Spring session, and if they have at least 10 actually shot league scores in their record by the end of the Spring session... the player regains both their "eligibility" and "originality" and are again eligible to shoot with the team in all levels of Higher Level Tournament play, including the World Qualifier, if the team should advance that far. The only players eligible to advance with a Qualified team to the World Qualifier are those players listed on the Qualified team's "Spring" roster (as of week #4 of the Spring session) who are deemed eligible by the following criteria: (1) they were listed as eligible players on the team's roster when the team qualified in the Tri-Annuals; they have at least 10 scores in their record by the end of the Spring Tri-Annual Championships; and they have shot with the team at least four times during the Spring session; or (2) they are replacement players who meet all "replacement" player eligibility, have been approved by the League Operator/League Manager, and have shot at least four times with the team during the Spring session. Any player dropped from your qualifying roster and not re-added to the Spring roster (by week #4) has lost their eligibility to advance with the team and share in any awards or prize monies. Exception: Since our Fall Session Tri-Annuals do not finish until after the 4th week of the Spring Session, those teams that qualify after week #4 will be allowed last minute roster changes. They may elect to add back players who were originally on their Fall roster, or replace any non-eligible players. If the player they add to their Spring roster is currently active on another team, that team will be allowed to add a replacement player. If a team elects to replace a dropped player(s) with a "new" or "nonestablished" (less than 10 scores in their record) or non-approved player on their Spring roster, or if a team elects to keep a player on the roster who was "non-established" when the team qualified, that "new" (or non-established/nonapproved) player will not be eligible, nor can they ever gain eligibility, to play with the team in the World Qualifier or the APA World Pool Championship or share in any prizes or awards (unless your team again "qualifies" in the Spring Tri-Annual). The player they replaced is also non-eligible to compete or share in any prizes or awards. New, non-eligible players are automatically removed from your World Qualifier roster (think twice before carrying non-eligible players on your Spring roster and limiting your World Qualifier roster to less than a full field of eight players). Your team may elect to replace a dropped player(s) with a veteran/"established" member who is approved by the League Operator. Replacement player(s) must meet the following criteria: (1) they must have had at least 10 scores in their record (preferably 20 scores) as of the date your team qualified in the Tri-Annual Championship; (2) they must have shot in our local APA league area, and in the same format within the past months; (3) they must be approved by the APA League Operator (your request must be submitted to the league office prior to week #4 of the Spring Session); and (4) they must have shot with the team at least four times during the regular Spring session. Don't try to find the "best 4", etc. Replacement players will be carefully reviewed and if they are "borderline" players or have "limited" scores in their record (10 minimum), they will be authorized only after their skill level is adjusted to a proper level. LOCAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP (LTC) APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 27

28 PRE-REGISTERED TOURNAMENTS WIN A TRIP TO VEGAS FOR ONLY $20 $600,000 APA POOLPLAYER CHAMPIONSHIPS HOW DO I MAKE IT TO LAS VEGAS? 1. Enter and win a local Singles Tournament in your specific skill level category (and Step Step format) and advance to the Green Room (March, 2018) to play in the APA Spring Singles Regional (dates & location subject to change). 2. Win at the Regional Singles Tournament in your specific skill level category (and format) and receive travel assistance and hotel accommodations at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. You will compete with other players in your specific skill level category (and format) for lots of cash, and one of eight National titles offered in the $600,000 APA Poolplayers Championship. WHO CAN REGISTER? HOW TO REGISTER? WHEN AND WHERE? SL CHANGES? APA players who are on an active 8-Ball team, and have at least ten (10) lifetime 8-Ball matches in their record (at the time that they register) may register for the 8-Ball Mega Singles Tournament... APA players who are on an active 9-Ball team (with 10 lifetime 9-Ball scores in their record) may register for the 9-Ball Mega Singles Tournament. All 10 scores must have occurred over the past two years. You must pre-register and pre-pay online using PayPal. Look for fliers in your team envelope around the middle of the session notifying you of open registration dates. Please visit to register online. If you have a problem registering online, please give our Tournament Manager, Paula Belange, a call on Ext Ball will be played at The New Green Room on Saturday, July 29th at 12 Noon... doors open at 11:00am... check-in at 11:00am to 11:45am with matches beginning at noon. 8-Ball will be played on Saturday, July 29th at 6:00pm... check-in at 5:00pm-5:45pm with matches beginning at 6pm. (Seeded by skill level if possible) You will play in the event at the skill level you possess at the time we receive your registration, or at the time we process paperwork for the event; whichever is higher! If an increase in skill level places you in another bracket, you will not be disqualified; you will simply be assigned to play in the proper skill level bracket in which you belong (if possible). ELIGIBILITY? 28 APAPOOL.COM Once qualified, to maintain eligibility you must remain on an active team within the same format (each session) until completion of the Poolplayers Championships. Register Online at Registration Deadline Monday, July 10th, 2017

29 PRE-REGISTERED TOURNAMENTS APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 29

30 PRE-REGISTERED TOURNAMENTS TOP GUN Program Gets Renamed TOP GUN 8-Ball & 9-Ball Invitational Tournaments Now Called MVP 8-Ball & 9-Ball Invitational Tournaments Every session, we award a patch to the best in each category, in every Division. One winner in each of three 8-Ball categories... SL 2-3, 4-5, and 6-7 and one winner in each of three 9-Ball categories... SL 1-3, 4-5, those with the highest PERFORMANCE AVERAGE "PA" (highest winning percentage of available points). All winners, in all categories, in both 8-Ball and 9-Ball, are invited to our Top Gun (now called MVP) Invitational Tournaments. Invitations, along with patches, will be mailed out around Week #4 of the Summer Session to the Spring 2017 Winners. We will also post the list of all invitees on our website. Invitees who wish to participate must register for the 8-Ball Tournament by June 19th, and the 9-Ball Tournament by June 26th! Register through your invitation or online at Questions? Call Paula Belange at Ext The Top 8 winners of each of the MVP Invitational Tournaments will receive Plaques and advance to the Singles Regionals. 8-Ball MVP Invitational Tournament WHEN Saturday, July 8th, 2017 at 12 Noon (Registration Deadline: June 19th) WHERE The New Green Room - Doors open at 11:00am; Registration 11:00-11:30am with a player meeting at 11:45am. Play starts immediately after. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS APA players who are on an active 8-Ball team, and have at least ten (10) lifetime 8-Ball matches in their record (within the last 2 years) may register for the MVP Invitational. 9-Ball MVP Invitational Tournament WHEN Saturday, July 15th, 2017 at 12 Noon (Registration Deadline: June 26th) WHERE The New Green Room - Doors open at 11:00am; Registration 11:00-11:30am with a player meeting at 11:45am. Play starts immediately after. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS APA players who are on an active 9-Ball team, and have at least ten (10) lifetime 9-Ball matches in their record (within the last 2 years) may register for the MVP Invitational. 30 APAPOOL.COM

31 SKILL LEVEL REVIEW POLICY & PROCEDURE TO HAVE A PLAYER REVIEWED Go online to login, and fill l out the Skill Level Evaluation Form OR Submit a letter or an to your Division Manager describing in detail why you feel the player is Over/Under Rated. REVIEW PROCESS The Executive Review Committee (ERC) meets weekly to review player evaluation requests. When reviewing Player Evaluation Requests we look at the following: OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION All notes in the player's record Current and past performances, along with Playoff, HLT, and Singles S t a ti s ti c s Lifetime Win Percentages Team Standings Whether the player is on a team that is known to attempt to hold skill levels down An response is sent back to the requestor listing the disposition that was made and the stats to support our decision. A copy of the is also sent to the Division Reps in each Division in which the player shoots. If the player being reviewed is either raised or lowered, the player will also receive an notification. APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 31

32 OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION In addition to our 6-person Mixed Format League, we are now introducing both 8-Ball and 9-Ball Scotch Doubles Leagues locally. Standard 8-person teams... $5 per player ($40/team). Three matches of Scotch Doubles, followed by two Singles matches. Every team member can now play every week, if they choose! The Scotch Doubles Vegas Qualifier will be held next February, 2018 at The New Green Room. The winning team will advance to Vegas where they will be awarded 4 slots in the APA Doubles Championship! If you would like for us to set up an In-House or Travel Division in your local area (and you have not already responded to the Survey we sent out in the Spring to our active members), please contact Melissa Frank at Ext APA 8-BALL SCOTCH DOUBLES LEAGUES 8-person teams. $5/player - $40/team APA Handicapped Everyone can play each week, if they choose! No more forfeits. If someone can't make it, any player(s) can multi-play each week during the regular session. During the playoffs and HLT, only three players may double-play no player may triple-play. No player may play both 8-Ball Singles Matches during the regular session, or the playoffs, or other HLT events. A player may play in each of the three 8-Ball Doubles Matches, as long as they have a different partner in each match. The same two players can only shoot together in one of the three 8-Ball Doubles Matches. Three Matches of 8-Ball Scotch Doubles, followed by two 8-Ball Singles Matches. Unlimited Coaching in all 8-Ball Scotch Doubles Matches... Timeouts for the 8-Ball Singles Matches are the same as they are in regular 8-Ball. Each 8-Ball Scotch Doubles Match is limited to a combined maximum skill level of 10 points. To avoid excessive match times, a slightly modified games won chart will be used for 8-Ball Scotch Doubles. Only ONE Skill Level 7 is allowed to play in the 8-Ball Singles Matches. All players listed on an APA 8-Ball Scotch Doubles team must play at least FOUR 8-Ball Singles Matches each session to 32 APAPOOL.COM advance to the playoffs. 8-Ball Doubles Matches do not count towards this requirement, however matches played on other APA 8-Ball teams do count. Since, in short sessions it is mathematically impossible for all eight players to get in the required number of matches, please make sure that most of your players play on other APA 8-Ball teams and monitor everyone s matches played carefully. **Players that are new to APA 8-Ball are required to shoot a minimum of SIX APA 8-Ball Singles matches to advance to the playoffs (which is even harder, especially if the player does not play on another APA 8-Ball team). Teams will advance to an 8-Ball Scotch Doubles Divisional playoff... and as we grow... to a Tri-Annuals. Winning teams from the Tri-Annuals will receive cash and awards... and... advance to an 8-Ball Scotch Doubles Vegas Qualifier... to be held February The Winning Team at our 8-Ball Scotch Doubles Vegas Qualifier will be awarded 4 Doubles Slots to play in the APA 8-Ball Doubles Championship (April 24-29, in Vegas). They will also receive local awards, along with $4,000 in Travel assistance. To advance to the APA 8-Ball Doubles Championship, a player must have a minimum of TWENTY 8-Ball scores in their record and all 20 scores must have been shot over the previous two years. HAVE FUN. MEET PEOPLE. PLAY POOL.

33 8-person teams. $5/player - $40/team APA Handicapped Everyone can play each week, if they choose! No more forfeits. If someone can't make it, any player(s) can multiplay each week during the regular session. During the playoffs and HLT, only three players may double-play no player may triple-play. No player may play both 9-Ball Singles Matches during the regular session, or the playoffs, or other HLT events. A Player may play in each of the three 9-Ball Doubles Matches, as long as they have a different partner in each match. The same two players can only shoot together in one of the three 9-Ball Doubles matches. Three Matches of 9-Ball Scotch Doubles, followed by Two 9-Ball Singles Matches. Unlimited Coaching in all 9-Ball Scotch Doubles Matches... Timeouts for the 9-Ball Singles Matches are the same as they are in regular 9-Ball. Each 9-Ball Scotch Doubles Match is limited to a combined maximum skill level of 10 points. Only ONE Skill Level 7-9 is allowed to play in the 9-Ball Singles matches. All players listed on an APA 9-Ball Scotch Doubles team must play at least FOUR 9-Ball Singles Matches each session to advance to the playoffs. 9-Ball Doubles Matches do not count towards this requirement, however Scotch Doubles Leagues APA 9-BALL SCOTCH DOUBLES LEAGUES matches played on other APA 9-Ball teams do count. Since, in short sessions it is mathematically impossible for all eight players to get in the required number of matches, please make sure that most of your players play on other APA 9-Ball teams and monitor everyone s matches played carefully. ** Players that are new to APA 9-Ball are required to shoot a minimum of SIX APA 9-Ball Singles Matches (which is even harder, especially if the player does not play on another APA 9-Ball team). Teams will advance to a 9-Ball Scotch Doubles Divisional playoff... and as we grow... to a Tri-Annuals. Winning teams from the Tri-Annuals will receive cash and awards... and... advance to a Scotch Doubles Vegas Qualifier... to be held February The Winning Team at our 9-Ball Scotch Doubles Vegas Qualifier will be awarded 4 Doubles Slots to play in the APA 9-Ball Doubles Championship (April 24-29, in Vegas). They will also receive local awards, along with $4,000 in Travel assistance. To advance to the APA 9-Ball Doubles Championship, a player must have a minimum of TWENTY 9-Ball scores in their record and all 20 scores must have been shot over the previous two years. HAVE FUN. MEET PEOPLE. PLAY POOL. OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 33

34 OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION Try our new APA MATCH-UP Need help finding a team to join? We can now help individual players find teams - and help teams find players! Join and post in our local APA Facebook Group Page: Or contact Melissa Frank melissaf@apapool.com Ext. 112 Service 34 APAPOOL.COM

35 USE THIS FORM TO REFER YOUR FRIENDS! APA Team Registration Form 2017 Fall Session Promo Code - RFFA17 WRITE YOUR NAME BELOW TO POSSIBLY EARN $$$! Host Location: Tavern Phone #: Address: # Pool Tables: City, State, Zip: Circle Night of Play: S M TU W TH F Circle Format: 8-BALL or 9-BALL If your team qualifies, you and your Co-Captain could be eligible for an APA Jacket, a new Cue and Case, and more! CAPTAIN: APA Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? CO-CAPTAIN: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? PLAYER 3: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION PLAYER 4: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? PLAYER 5: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? PLAYER 6: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? PLAYER 7: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? PLAYER 8: Mem # Phone: Birthdate: Ever Played in the APA? If Yes, When? MAIL TO: APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND, 8518 FORT SMALLWOOD RD, PASADENA, MD or scan and this form to our Marketing Manager, Melissa Frank... melissaf@apapool.com ( Ext. 112) 5-8 Players per team (male/female)... Amateurs Only... Annual Membership $25/player Weekly League Fees - $8/player ($40/team)... not due until the first night of play You will be contacted a few days before the start of the session and advised where you play and where (locally) to pick-up your team envelope. DEADLINE TO REGISTER TEAMS IS MONDAY, JULY 24TH 8-Ball & 9-Ball Leagues in Baltimore City & Baltimore & Howard Counties begin Monday, August 6th 8-Ball & 9-Ball Outlying County Leagues begin Monday, August 13th I APA Player # (must be a currently active APA member) have signed-up this team to play in the APA. I understand that if this team meets the eligibility requirements listed below, the Captain and the Co-Captain of this team will both receive an APA Jacket and a Nick Varner Signature Cue and case... and that I will receive $100 cash for referring this team. I understand that if I refer a 2nd eligible team within the next 12 months, I will receive $150 for that team and that if I refer a 3rd eligible team within 12 months of my 2nd referral, I will receive $200 for that team. I also understand that I cannot receive "BOTH" Referral Cash and the Captain/Co-Captain Rewards Packet. Eligibility Requirements - For the Captain and Co-Captain to be eligible for the above Rewards and for the person who referred the team to be eligible for $100 in cash, the team s roster (as of week # 5 of the new session) must consist of a combination of at least "FIVE" new players or former APA members who have not played in the APA for at least 12 months. Adding/Dropping players to a team that played the previous session, or changing to a different night, format, or tavern does not meet the qualifying criteria. The team must also have all memberships fees and weekly dues up to date. Items will be shipped on week # 8 of the new session. Referral Cash will also be paid at that time! APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 35

36 OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION NEW* TEAM REWARDS We re offering the following incentives to your friends for Registering a New* Team in the APA (provided they meet the NEW* Team Qualifying Criteria)! The Team Captain will receive: a New Nick Varner Cue and Case (or $50 in Cash) an APA Team Captain Jacket a $25 Gift Card to Macy s, Sears, Home Depot, or Best Buy! The Co-Captain (for assisting the Captain) will receive: a New Nick Varner Cue and Case (or $50 in Cash) an APA Team Captain Jacket *To Be Considered a NEW Team The team must consist of a combination of at least fi ve new players who have never played in the APA in any format and/or prior APA players who have not played in the APA within 12 months in any format. Adding/dropping players to a team that played the previous session, or changing to a different night, format, or tavern does not meet the qualifying criteria. Eligibility is based on the team s week #5 roster. Referral checks will be sent out on/around week #8 of the session, along with team rewards. 36 APAPOOL.COM

37 APA's CASH Incentive Program EARN CASH FOR SIGNING-UP *NEW* TEAMS TO THE APA To Guarantee That You Receive Credit For Recruiting/Referring A NEW Team To The APA, You Must Personally Sign-Up The Team and The Team Must Meet Certain Criteria: To be considered a *NEW* Team the team must consist of a combination of at least five new players who have never played in the APA and/or prior APA players who have not played in the APA within 12 months in any format. Replacing players to a team that was Active the previous session, or changing to a different night, format, or tavern does not qualify the team as a *NEW* Team. Eligibility is based on the team s week #5 roster. Referral checks will be sent out on/ around week #8 of the session, along with team rewards. You should 1. Personally fill out the Team Registration Form for the NEW Team and turn it in yourself to the League Office. THIS IS THE ONLY WAY TO GUARANTEE YOU GET CREDIT AND RECEIVE THE REFERRAL CASH! If you elect to simply give the form to a perspective Team Captain, at least fill out the Referral section first and ask them to RETURN IT TO YOU! 2. Fill out the Recruiting/Referral Section COMPLETELY! 3. Spend an hour or so teaching the *NEW* team the rules; teach them about the pick-up and drop-off system; remind them when the new session starts; and if possible, meet them on the first week of play and help them get started explain the info in the New Team Packet, etc. DON'T FORGET! To receive credit for recruiting a team into the APA, your name MUST be on the form when it is received in the office! Do not call in (or have the Captain of the New Team call in) after the team shows up in the schedule and tell us that you were the person that talked them into joining. If you want credit for your efforts, your name MUST be on the Registration Form! If the team registers Online, tell them that they MUST list you as the person who REFERRED the team to the league for you to receive the Referral Cash! Three Reward Levels Silver Level $100 per team Gold Level $150 per team Platinum Level $200 per team Silver Level $100 for recruiting a *NEW* Team. The wait staff at all of our current and perspective hosting locations, along with all of our active APA members will be given Silver Level status and will receive $100 for personally referring 1 *NEW* team to the APA! Gold Level $150 for recruiting a *NEW* Team. If you refer a 2nd team to the APA (within 12 months of your first referral) you will advance to the Gold Level and receive $150 for your second referral. Platinum Level $200 for recruiting a *NEW* Team. If you refer a 3rd team (within 12 months of your second referral) you advance to the Platinum Level and will receive $200 for your 3rd and all future referrals... as long as you continue to refer at least one team every 12 months, otherwise you will drop back to the Silver Level. OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION APA POOL LEAGUE OF MARYLAND 37

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40 OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION Kathy Melcavage (410) Ext APAPOOL.COM

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42 OTHER LEAGUE INFORMATION APA ADULT/JUNIORS LEAGUES Two Adults & Two Juniors Per Team New Divisions Forming Junior Ages: 7-18 *18-year olds may only participate provided they do not turn 19 prior to July 17th, 2017 Fee: $10 annual APA membership for Juniors $25 annual APA membership for Adults + $20 Weekly Fees/team The Equalizer Handicap System Two Adults/Two Juniors Per Team. Two 9-Ball Youth Matches, followed by one 9-Ball Adult Match, per League Night. 60 Point System. 30 Points for Byes. 5 Points for Bonus Points. No Cap on Skill Levels. Two Senior Player Rule Applies (only two senior level players can compete in a match/night). Winning Team Receives $1,200 Travel Assistance + $60 Juniors Championship Entry Fee Covered for each Junior. Playoff Structure TBD. HAVE FUN MEET PEOPLE PLAY POOL To sign up an APA Juniors League, go to Team Registration on (click 9-Ball). Please note in the Comments section (of Team Registration) that it is for an APA Juniors League. Questions? Contact: Melissa Frank Phone: Ext melissaf@apapool.com Web: 42 APAPOOL.COM

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