SWSPL Pool League – Terms & Conditions (Blackball Rules)
1. League Overview
The SWSPL Pool League (“the League”) is a competitive blackball pool league governed by these Terms & Conditions and played in accordance with World Blackball Rules (WBR) unless otherwise stated.
2. Eligibility
- Players must comply with the minimum age requirements of the venue and local regulations.
- All players must be registered with SWSPL before participating.
- The League reserves the right to refuse or revoke entry for disciplinary or administrative reasons.
3. Registration & Fees
- All entry fees must be paid in full before the League commences.
- Fees are non-refundable, except in the event of League cancellation.
- Failure to pay fees may result in suspension or removal from the League.
4. League Format
- Matches will be played in the format announced prior to the season start (frames, race length, or points system).
- Match dates, times, and venues may be adjusted with reasonable notice.
- Failure to attend a scheduled match without notice may result in a match forfeit.
5. Rules of Play (Blackball)
- All matches are played under World Blackball Rules.
- The breaker chooses whether to play yellows or reds unless dictated by an open table rule.
- A legal break requires at least one object ball to be potted or two object balls to hit a cushion.
- Fouls result in two visits for the incoming player.
- Potting the black (8 ball) illegally or out of sequence results in loss of frame.
- The black must be potted cleanly into a nominated pocket unless otherwise allowed by WBR.
6. Fouls & Penalties
The following (non-exhaustive) actions constitute fouls:
- Failing to hit a legal object ball first
- Potting the cue ball (in-off)
- Jump shots (unless clearly accidental and legal)
- Touching balls with hand, cue, or clothing
- Playing out of turn
Penalties are applied in accordance with World Blackball Rules.
7. Referees & Decisions
- Where a referee is present, their decision is final.
- In the absence of a referee, players are expected to officiate fairly.
- Disputes must be raised before the next shot is played.
8. Scoring & Standings
- Points allocation will follow the League’s published structure.
- League tables will be updated regularly.
- Tie-breakers may include head-to-head results, frame difference, or playoff frames.
9. Player Conduct
- Players must maintain sportsmanlike conduct at all times.
- Abusive language, aggression, or intimidation will not be tolerated.
- Breaches of conduct may result in warnings, frame loss, match forfeiture, suspension, or expulsion.
10. Equipment
- Personal cues are permitted.
- Only standard blackball equipment may be used.
- Equipment provided by the venue must not be deliberately damaged.
11. Prizes
- Prize structures will be announced prior to the League start.
- Prize distribution is subject to the number of registered players.
- Prizes are not transferable unless approved by the League.
12. Withdrawals & Substitutions
- Players withdrawing during the season forfeit fees and recorded results.
- Substitutions are only permitted with prior League approval.
- Exceptional circumstances may be reviewed at the League’s discretion.
13. Liability
- Players participate at their own risk.
- The League, organizers, and venues accept no responsibility for injury, loss, or damage.
14. Media & Promotion
- SWSPL reserves the right to use participant names, images, and match footage for promotional purposes.
- Participation implies consent for such use.
15. Amendments
- SWSPL reserves the right to amend these Terms & Conditions at any time.
- All updates will be communicated through official League channels.
16. Acceptance
By registering or participating in any SWSPL Pool League match, players confirm they have read, understood, and accepted these Terms & Conditions.