CSI News

One-Time Exception for COVID-19 Impacted Players

6/23/2021

Over the past year, league players have contacted us to ask if they will be eligible to play in the 2021 BCA Pool League World Championships if their leagues didn't resume early enough for them to get qualified. We have continued to hope and expect all areas around the globe to reopen in time for players to join a BCA Pool League and become eligible. Unfortunately, there are still many regions in which leagues cannot operate at all or they are only allowed to operate at a significantly reduced capacity. This has made it impossible for many players to become eligible.

In light of this, we offer, just for the 2021 BCA Pool League Championships, the following one-time exception. Any person who resides in an "impacted region" may purchase a CSI membership ($40 for one year) and participate in the 2021 BCA Pool League World Championships. An "impacted region" is any region in which leagues have not been allowed to begin or have been mandated to operate at a reduced capacity by the state or local Government.

Players in impacted regions that form teams must all reside within an approximate radius of 25-miles (40-kilometers).

Please note that this is a one-time exception for the 2021 BCA Pool League World Championships only. Those who wish to compete in next year's 2022 BCA Pool League Championships, which will be held March 23 - April 2, must join a BCA Pool League and meet the minimum weeks of play requirement before the end of the 2021 calendar year.

To register for the BCA Pool League World Championships, visit the official event webpage at www.playcsipool.com/2021-bcapl-world-championships. All event details can be found in the Player Guide which can be downloaded from this page.

BCA Pool League Scoring App

6/9/2021

The BCA Pool League Scoring App has been released and is available for free to all BCA Pool Leagues that use the FargoRate League Management System (LMS), the only league management system in the world with FargoRate built in. There is no need for complicated score sheets, paper, pencils or a math degree. Players can simply log in to the BCA Pool League Scoring App, score the match and submit.

On March 7, 2021, the new score sheet layout and score sheet builder was introduced into LMS. That change was implemented to facilitate the BCA Pool League scoring app. If your current league session began before March 7, 2021 and/or you are using the old horizontal LMS score sheet layout, you will not be able to score those matches using the BCA Pool League Scoring App. When you create your next division and begin using the new score sheet builder, those matches can be scored using the BCA Pool League Scoring App.

Below is an overview of how to score a match with the app.

📲 The app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store by searching "BCAPL Scoring App."

🛑 IMPORTANT: The wide range of formats and scoring systems used by the hundreds of BCA Pool Leagues around the world make testing every aspect of every format nearly impossible. Therefore, it is highly recommended that everyone keep a paper score sheet as backup for at least the first session of using the BCA Pool League Scoring App.

Logging In

After downloading the BCA Pool League Scoring App from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, it will open to the Login screen.

LOGGING IN THE FIRST TIME
There are two ways to login the first time.

OPTION 1 - USE THE FARGORATE APP FIRST (BEST OPTION)
You should first download the FargoRate App. It has lots of great features and the premium features are free to BCA Pool League members ($12.99/year for non-members). Download the FargoRate App, search for your name and claim your record (click here for detailed instructions). You will be prompted to enter your email address and choose a password. Once you have completed this process, you can login to the BCA Pool League Scoring app using the same email and password.

OPTION 2 - USE YOUR MEMBERSHIP NUMBER
You may also create your account directly through the BCA Pool League Scoring App. Click “Register for an account” and provide some basic information, including your BCA Pool League membership number. The email address and password you choose here will then be the login credentials for the FargoRate App as well. This is not the recommended option but it will work.

A note about membership numbers...
Some people have older profiles in FargoRate with a shortened 7-digit membership number stored internally. A few years ago, membership numbers were modified to a new 13-digit format to accommodate the rapid growth of FargoRate and CSI’s leagues. To log in to the FargoRate apps, you must use whichever number is stored internally. Although the membership card may show a 13-digit number, FargoRate may actually have the shortened 7-digit version stored internally. If so, that is what must be used to login to the BCA Pool League Scoring App.

What does this mean?
The 13-digit number will work for most people. If it doesn’t, omit the first 5 digits and the last digit and try again. For example, if the 13-digit number 9900003078972 does not work, try the shortened 7-digit version of 0307897.

We understand this may be a little confusing. This is why we recommend creating your account through the FargoRate App first. Also, you only need to login once. After the first login, the app should open without the need to login.

The Match List

Once you login, the initial screen will show the list of upcoming matches in your league. If this screen is blank for you, either your league does not use LMS or you are not yet on any of the league's team rosters in LMS.

Click the match that you'd like to score. You can score your own team's match or you can score a match for two different teams in the league.

Note, if your league session began before March 7, 2021 and/or you are using the old horizontal LMS score sheet layout, those matches will not appear in the Match List.

Scoring a Game

This example shows a 3-player team league that utilizes the round robin format, 10-point scoring method and FargoRate set at 100% for handicapping.

Start by selecting the players that will play the first game.

To begin scoring the game, click the green number pad icon in the center of the player names.

The "Score Game" screen appears. Whichever score box is highlighted (thicker border) is the score that you are editing. In this example, the score for the player on team Miss Cues is in the edit mode. If you want to edit the other player's score, click that team's score box.

There are several options for scoring and each game can be won in a number of "special" ways. If the player for team Miss Cues won the game, you can simply click the WIN button. If he or she won in a special way, such as a break-and-run, click the BR button. The buttons are as follows:

WIN - awards the appropriate number of points based on the league's scoring method setting in LMS. In this example, the winning score is 10 points because the league uses a 10-point scoring system.

BR - awards the appropriate number of points based on the league's scoring method and also records it as a break-and-run for league tracking purposes.

TR - awards the appropriate number of points based on the league's scoring method and also records it as a table-run for league tracking purposes. A table-run is when the non-breaking player wins the game at his or her first turn at the table.

WB - awards the appropriate number of points based on the league's scoring method and also records it as a win-on-the-break for league tracking purposes. This is when a player wins the game off of the break (ex. 9-ball on the break).

WZ - awards the appropriate number of points based on the league's scoring method and also records it as a win-zip for league tracking purposes. A win-zip is when the winning player won leaving their opponent with a score of zero.

(-) - reduces the score by one (1) for each click.

(+) - increases the score by one (1) for each click.

RESET - resets the game scores for both players.

DONE - completes the scoring for the game and closes the "Score Game" screen.

NOTE: Due to the wide range of formats played by BCA Pool Leagues, the scoring app is built for maximum flexibility. Therefore, no error checking is included for game scores. For example, if your league uses a 10-point system, the app will allow you to enter a score other than 10 for a win. This is intentional.

In this example, we clicked the WIN button for team Miss Cues. We then clicked the score box for team I Got Lucky and then clicked the (+) button six times. This indicates a game score of 10 to 6.

Once we are confident that the score is correct, we click the DONE button.

This takes us back to the ROUND 1 view and we see the entered game score of 10 to 6 in favor of team Miss Cues.

We now scroll down to score the second game of Round 1.

We repeated the game scoring steps as explained above to enter the score of the second game of Round 1. Here, Jason Kane won the game 10 to 0 and it was correctly recorded as a win-zip (WZ).

We now scroll down to score the third game of Round 1.

We repeated the game scoring steps to enter the score of the third game of Round 1. Here, Rebecca Wagner won the game 10 to 5.

Round 1 is now complete. The Round 1 actual score, handicap points and total score are displayed at the bottom of the screen. The running total of the match score will be displayed near the top of every screen. You will notice that the handicap points have already been calculated based on the actual match-ups that have occurred in the round. There is no need to visit the online handicap calculator to determine handicap points.

To begin scoring Round 2, scroll to the top and click the arrow to the right of Round 1. This will take you to the Round 2 screen.

The player rotation will already be set for Round 2 based on the specific score sheet configuration of your league in LMS. Therefore, there is no need to select the players unless there is a substitute situation or different players than were in Round 1.

Adding a Player

If at any point in the match you need to add a player to your team, click the (+) button next to the team name and the "Add Player" screen will appear. Search for the player and if you are confident that you found the right person, click the name to add him or her to the team roster.

If you fail to find the person in the search, either you have searched using the wrong spelling or the person is not in the FargoRate or BCA Pool League database. In this situation, the League Operator must add the player to your team through LMS first.

Match Handoff

It's common for more than one person to keep score. For example, you may be scoring the first game or round on your phone but you may have to play in the second game or round. You can "handoff" score keeping duties to someone else in the league with the Handoff feature.

To handoff score keeping, click the arrow icon in the upper right corner of the screen. This generates a handoff code. When your teammate selects the match using his or her mobile device, it will ask for this code. He or she can then pick up where you left off.

Submit Match

Once all games and rounds are scored, the overall score should be reviewed by both teams. To submit the score sheet, click the SUBMIT MATCH button. Both teams are encouraged to score the match and compare score sheets at the conclusion of the match for accuracy. Both teams may submit the scores.

The League Operator will see the match results in LMS and your leagues data will be automatically reported to FargoRate. If any part of a score sheet is incorrect, the League Operator can correct it in LMS.

Use LMS!

If your league is not using LMS, encourage your League Operator to make the switch today. If not, your league will not be able to use the BCA Pool League Scoring App and your league's data will not be reported to FargoRate. This will put you and your teammates at a disadvantage when competing in BCA Pool League events because we may have to assign starter ratings that are higher than your true skill level.

For more information about the BCA Pool League, visit www.playbcapool.com. For more information about FargoRate, visit www.fargorate.com.

Predator and CueSports International Launch the US Pro Billiard Series

6/3/2021

Predator Group and CueSports International (CSI) are proud to announce the official launch of the US Pro Billiard Series. The 2021 inaugural season features five open/pro 10-ball events between July and the end of the calendar year, each held alongside a CSI Leagues amateur event attended by hundreds and sometimes thousands of BCA Pool League & USA Pool League members.

The winner of each event receives a guaranteed spot in the $100,000 added 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Championship, to be held March 28 – April 1, at the CueSports International Expo in Las Vegas. The five 2021 US Pro Billiard Series events plus the end of season 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Championship boasts a quarter million dollars in added money and a total purse of nearly a half million dollars.

2021 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

EVENT 1: US Pro Billiard Series - Arizona Open
July 28-31
Casino Del Sol Resort
Tucson, Arizona
(held with the CSI Leagues Arizona State Championships)

EVENT 2: US Pro Billiard Series - Diamond Las Vegas Open
Sept 1-4
Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada
(held with the BCA Pool League World Championships & USA Pool League National Championships)

EVENT 3: US Pro Billiard Series - Michigan Open
Sept 22-25
Kellogg Arena
Battle Creek, Michigan
(held with the CSI Leagues Michigan State Championships)

EVENT 4: US Pro Billiard Series - Ohio Open
Oct 13-16
Roberts Centre
Wilmington, Ohio
(held with the CSI Leagues Ohio State Championships)

EVENT 5: US Pro Billiard Series - Puerto Rico Open
Dates: TBA
Venue: TBA
San Juan, Puerto Rico
(held with the CSI Leagues Puerto Rico Championships)

For more information or to register for any of these events, visit www.USProBilliardSeries.com. Players are encouraged to not delay because many events are limited to 64 players and registration is on a first come, first serve basis.

“We are proud to partner with Predator and FargoRate to make the US Pro Billiard Series a reality. Holding these high-quality pro events along with our already established amateur league events across the country creates a synergy and an atmosphere not found elsewhere,” said Ozzy Reynolds, CEO of CueSports International. “We are never satisfied with 'good enough.' We constantly strive to be better and provide a great experience, not just another tournament.”

The US Pro Billiard Series will also feature its own points and ranking system managed by FargoRate. The top six players in the US Pro Billiard Series Rankings who do not earn a spot by winning an event or are not otherwise invited by the WPA, a WPA continental federation or a promotor wild card, will also earn spots in the $100,000 added 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Championship.

The ranking system is designed specifically to avoid the pitfalls of traditional points systems. Players earn two types of points – Tournament Points and FargoRate Points. Tournament Points are based upon where players finish in an event (i.e., the traditional approach). FargoRate Points are based upon players’ Fargo ratings relative to the field of players. The total number and distribution of FargoRate Points will match the total number and distribution of Tournament Points. This balanced blending of points allows for the emergence of rising talent while reducing the chance of top players being knocked out of contention by misfortune or a single poor performance.

When asked about FargoRate’s new responsibility in managing the ranking system, Co-Founder, Steve Ernst said, “We are very excited to be part of this new professional series. CueSports International and Predator are doing truly great things for the sport and we at FargoRate are honored to be included.”

The format of each event has been devised to create drama and excitement. Each match is two sets, race to four. If the set score is tied at 1-1, a spot shot shootout determines the winner. Stage 1 is double elimination to the final quarter of the field. Stage 2 is single elimination.

The feature table will be broadcast live on Billiard TV, the first and only 24/7 free television channel dedicated solely to broadcasting billiards programming. Billiard TV will feature full-length matches, trick shot exhibitions, instruction, commentary, news and more. It is scheduled to launch in June and will immediately be available in 12 countries and to 30 million viewers.

The equipment used for each event, with the exception of the Diamond Las Vegas Open, will be Predator tables covered with Predator Arcadia Reserve Cloth, Predator Arcos II Balls, Predator Arena Lights, Predator Bridges and Predator 1080 Pure Chalk. The Diamond Las Vegas Open will be played on Diamond Pro-Am tables.

“We are excited to build a US tour in partnership with CSI that brings back professional competitions to North America on a regular basis,” said Karim Belhaj, CEO of Predator Group. “We want to give back to the sport, and in particular to pro players that are inspiring new and long-time fans alike. We can all benefit from creating more excitement around the sport.”

Predator Group’s mission is to inspire billiard fans by providing innovative experiences and products that deliver high-performance, with unsurpassed class and style. Predator, Poison and Uni-Loc are Predator Group brands that focus on performance pool cues, billiard accessories and precision components. For more information regarding Predator Group’s products, visit www.predatorcues.com, www.poisoncues.com and www.uni-loc.com.

CueSports International (CSI) is an international pool league and event leader and is currently comprised of three divisions: CSI Leagues, CSI Events and CSI Media. CSI Leagues manages the BCA Pool League and USA Pool League, CSI Events produces numerous amateur and professional events around the globe and CSI Media creates live streaming and digital content. Through its vision and strategic alliances, CSI is “shaping the future of pool.” For more information about CSI or any of its divisions, visit www.playcsipool.com or find CueSports International on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter.

FargoRate computes pocket-billiard player ratings that rate amateur and professional players worldwide. FargoRate currently has over 19 million games played by nearly a quarter million players from 130 countries in its massive data set. Coupling game win/loss data across local leagues, regions, countries, and continents ensures players everywhere are rated on the same scale. Its mission is to usher in a new era for pocket billiards in which all players everywhere, amateur or professional, are interconnected and rated by objective performance. For more information about FargoRate, visit www.fargorate.com.

All New FargoRate League Handicap Calculator Explained

5/30/2021

You may have noticed a few changes in the way handicaps are calculated in LMS. You may also have noticed a few changes with the online BCA Pool League Handicap Calculator. We'd like to explain these changes to you by using the scenario below. After thoroughly reading this all the way through, we are confident that everything will be clear.

Scenario

FORMAT
3-Player Teams
2 games played per round
3 rounds of play
17-point scoring system
Handicapped by FargoRate

STR8 SHOOTERS (TEAM ONE)
Bob (459)
Henry (384)
Cathy (409)
Total (1,252)
Avg (417)

POCKETEERS (TEAM TWO)
Lisa (406)
Derek (346)
John (588)
Total (1,340)
Avg (447)

Legacy Mode

The legacy mode is the older method of calculating handicaps based on Fargo ratings. It uses the team averages to calculate handicaps which isn't perfectly accurate but is a very close approximation. The screen shot below shows the legacy mode handicap result for our example scenario: STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) vs POCKETEERS (Team Two).

Let's examine how this handicap is calculated. In this mode, the calculator uses the team averages of 417 & 447. It assumes that every game is played between a player rated 417 and 447. In each game, there is a probability of each player winning, a probability of each player losing, an expected score when winning and an expected score when losing. When three match-ups occur, STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) is expected to score 24.042 points while POCKETEERS (Team Two) is expected to score 26.958 points; a difference of 2.916 points. In other words, POCKETEERS is expected to score 2.916 points more than STR8 SHOOTERS over three games. This figure is rounded down to 2.0 points (the nearest whole number) and then multiplied by 2 because 2 games are played in each match-up. This yields a handicap of 4 points per round for all rounds.

First Round Mode (NEW)

With the new score sheet builder in LMS, we can now calculate more accurate handicaps based on the actual match-ups and Fargo ratings of the players of each game rather than estimating it with team averages. The First Round mode calculates handicaps the same way that LMS now calculates them. The screen shot below shows the first round mode handicap result for all three rounds of our example scenario: STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) vs POCKETEERS (Team Two).

Round 1

After entering the correct format info, player ratings and the correct order of players for the first round, the calculator yields a 5-point handicap. Notice that this is slightly different than the 4-point handicap result by using the Legacy Mode. This is not a software glitch. The 5-point handicap is based on the specific match-ups and Fargo ratings of the specific players in every game. It is more accurate than the Legacy Mode calculation.

Round 2

In most league formats, the match-ups change in each round and because the match-ups are different, the handicap may also be different. Therefore, we need to calculate the handicap for the second round based on the actual match-ups that will take place. The "Rotate Players" button will rotate the order of Team Two players based on a normal round robin rotation. If your team has a different rotation or if your team is using a substitute player in the second round that did not play in the first round, you must manually enter the player ratings in the fields. In our example, the calculator indicates a 5-point handicap for round 2.

Round 3

The order is once again rotated for round 3 and the calculator now indicates a 6-point handicap. Not only is this different than the 4-point handicap indicated by the Legacy Mode, it's also different than the handicap given for round 1 and 2. How can that be? This must be a problem, right? Actually, no. The 6-point handicap given for round 3 is absolutely correct.

At this point, you may be saying "How can the handicap points be different in one or more of the rounds? It's the same two teams with the same players so shouldn't the handicap points be the same in every round?" The answer is no.

Let's take a look at how these handicaps are calculated. In this mode, the calculator uses the actual match-ups of every single game, not just the team averages of 417 & 447. In each game, there is a probability of each player winning, a probability of each player losing, an expected score when winning and an expected score when losing. These probabilities and expected scores change for every match-up based on the Fargo ratings of the two people playing.

When all of these probabilities and expected scores are calculated for each and every game in round 1, STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) is expected to score 48.079 points while POCKETEERS (Team Two) is expected to score 53.921 points; a difference of 5.843 points. In other words, POCKETEERS is expected to score 5.843 points more than STR8 SHOOTERS in round 1. This figure is rounded down to 5.0 points (the nearest whole number).

This is repeated for round 2. Again, the probabilities and expected scores change for every match-up based on the Fargo ratings of the two people playing. STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) is expected to score 48.200 points while POCKETEERS (Team Two) is expected to score 53.800 points; a difference of 5.599 points. This figure is rounded down to 5.0 points (the nearest whole number).

This is repeated for round 3. Again, the probabilities and expected scores change for every match-up based on the Fargo ratings of the two people playing. STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) is expected to score 47.737 points while POCKETEERS (Team Two) is expected to score 54.263 points; a difference of 6.526 points. This figure is rounded down to 6.0 points (the nearest whole number).

Hopefully, it is now clear why the handicaps may be different for different rounds.

Full Match Mode

The Full Match Mode is a faster way to get the result explained by the First Round Mode above. The user specifies which league and division they are in and the enters the Fargo ratings of the players and the correct order of players for the first round. Because the exact league and division are specified, it knows the exact rotation of players in LMS so there is no need to rotate them and recalculate the handicap for every round. The screen shot below shows the Full Match Mode handicap result for our example scenario: STR8 SHOOTERS (Team One) vs POCKETEERS (Team Two).

Notice that it provides the handicap for every round because it already knows the exact rotation of the players for each round.

WARNING
If a different (substitute) player enters the lineup after the first round, you must recalculate the handicap based on the new player ratings for that round or use the First Round Mode explained above.

Summary

We understand that this may be a little hard to grasp at first. However, this change was necessary to accommodate the impending release of the BCA Pool League Scoring App and to provide more accurate handicaps for your league. We are confident that you will love the improvements after getting familiar with them.

If you have any questions or concerns about LMS, the League Handicap Calculator or the upcoming BCA Pool League Scoring App, please contact LMS Support at LMSSupport@playcsipool.com.

Simonis is the Official Cloth of CueSports International

5/21/2021

CueSports International (CSI) is proud to announce a partnership in which Iwan Simonis, Inc. has renewed its commitment as the Official Cloth of CueSports International, the BCA Pool League and USA Pool League. Simonis Cloth will continue to be used in CSI, BCA Pool League and USA Pool League events, including the BCA Pool League World Championships and USA Pool League National Championships in Las Vegas which are part of the global pool spectacle known as the CueSports International Expo.

Simonis has long been the premier pool table cloth manufactured for superior consistency, accuracy and durability. Simonis Cloth can be found on pool tables all over the world and is the choice of professional players and amateurs alike.

Ozzy Reynolds, CEO of CueSports International, said "It's difficult to name a company or brand with the longevity and reputation that Simonis has achieved. We are very happy to partner with such a great company and use Simonis Cloth in order to provide a great experience for our members.”

"It's difficult to name a company or brand with the longevity and reputation that Simonis has achieved. We are very happy to partner with such a great company and use Simonis Cloth in order to provide a great experience for our members.”
- Ozzy Reynolds, Owner/CEO CueSports International

Ivan Lee, CEO of Iwan Simonis, Inc., said “I’m pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with CSI, their leagues and events. Ozzy and his team do a great job of bringing excitement and high-quality competition to their members through their commitment to the players and the use of best-in-class products like Simonis Cloth."

“I’m pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with CSI, their leagues and events. Ozzy and his team do a great job of bringing excitement and high-quality competition to their members through their commitment to the players and the use of best-in-class products like Simonis Cloth."
- Ivan Lee, CEO Iwan Simonis, Inc.

Founded in 1680 in Verviers, Belgium, Iwan Simonis S.A. is the oldest company in the billiard industry. Iwan Simonis, Inc. is the North American home of the Simonis family of billiard brands including Simonis Cloth and Aramith Balls. For more information about Simonis, visit www.simoniscloth.com.

CueSports International is an international pool league and event leader and is comprised of three divisions: CSI leagues, CSI events and CSI media. CSI leagues manages the BCA Pool League, one of the oldest and largest pool leagues in the world. It also manages the USA Pool League, a newer but fast-growing amateur league completely powered by FargoRate. CSI events produces numerous amateur and professional events around the globe. CSI media creates live streaming and digital content. Through its progressive vision and strategic alliances, CSI is “Shaping the future of pool.”

For more information about CSI or its divisions, visit www.playcsipool.com or find CueSports International on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram or Twitter.

USA Pool League Scoring App

4/20/2021

One of the great benefits of the USA Pool League is free mobile scoring. There is no need for complicated score sheets, paper, pencils or a math degree. Simply login to the USA Pool League Scoring App, score the match and submit it to your League Manager.

🛑 The app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store by searching "USAPL."

Below is an overview of how to score a match with the app and submit it to your League Manager.

Scoring a Set

A USA Pool League team match consists of a number of sets in which one player plays one other player from the opposing team. Each player races to his or her race-to number as determined by their Fargo ratings.

After selecting your team's match, you will see the number of sets scheduled for that match. This example is for 3-player teams (i.e. 3 sets). Select "START SET" to begin scoring.
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Select the players for the set, the race length and which team gets the first break. New players, those not already on your team's roster, can be added by clicking the + icon. Click the "START" button after selecting the players.
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The set is displayed with each players' race-to number. In this example, Anthony is racing to 50 points while John is racing to 31 points. Click "Score Game #1" to score the first game (rack).
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This example is scoring 9-ball. The balls that each player pockets for 9-ball & 10-ball must be tracked. Simply flick each ball up or down to indicate which player pocketed each ball.
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Anthony won the game (14 points) with John pocketing two balls (2 points). There are also options to track whether the win was a break-and-run, table run, win-zip or win-on-break. Click "FINISH" to record that game.
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The set screen now displays the current score and how many points each player needs to get "on the hill" (i.e. within 14 points of winning the match). Click "Score Game #2" to begin scoring the next game.
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Anthony won game #2 by a score of 14-5. Click "FINISH" to record that game and view the set screen.
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The score is now 28-7 in favor of Anthony after two games. Click "Score Game #3" to begin scoring the next game.
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Although Anthony made eight balls, John won game #3 by legally pocketing the 9-ball. Therefore, John gets 14 points for the win and Anthony gets 8 points for the eight balls he pocketed.
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The set screen now shows the score to be 36-21 in favor of Anthony. It also shows that both players are within 14 points of their race-to numbers (indicated in red). Therefore, the winner of the next game, wins the set regardless of who reaches their race-to number first.
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Anthony won the game 14-4 by pocketing the 9-ball early. Note that balls not pocketed do not get moved to any player.
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The set screen indicates Anthony as the winner of the set. Now that a set is complete, pull the blue "SCORESHEET" bar up to display the current match score.
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Team Scoresheet View

Once a set has been scored, you can view the overall team score sheet by dragging up the blue bar labeled "SCORESHEET."

Pulling the score sheet up displays the current overall score of the match. Anthony has earned 112 points for his team (100 points for the win plus 12 margin of victory points).
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Select the other team to view its overall score. John has earned 25 points for his team because that was his total score after losing his set.
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Timeouts

Each player may take up to three timeouts per set. A timeout is a maximum of 90 seconds. The USA Pool League Scoring App makes it easy to manage and track timeouts.

To begin a timeout, click "TOs" under the name of the player who is taking the timeout.
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A 90-second timer will begin.
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The window will indicate when the 90-second timeout expires.
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Handoff Feature

It's common for more than one person to keep score. For example, you may be scoring the first set on your phone but you may have to play in the second set. You can handoff score keeping duties to a teammate with the Handoff feature.

To handoff score keeping, click the arrow icon in the upper right corner of the screen.
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This generates a handoff code. When your teammate selects the match using his or her mobile device, it will ask for this code. He or she can then pick up where you left off.
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Win Scenario

When there is only one set remaining in the match, it is helpful to know what each team needs to do in order to win the match. After setting the final set lineup, the "WIN SCENARIO" feature will do this for you. You can even view the win scenarios for different players to determine your best final set lineup strategy.

Set #2 was scored in the same manner. Miguel won the set because he won the final game with both players being "on the hill."
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When there is one set remaining, it is helpful to know what your team needs to do to win the match. Set the lineup for the final set and pull the score sheet up.
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Click "WIN SCENARIO" to see exactly what each player needs to do in order to win the match for their team.
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In this example, Ray on team The Sandbaggers, needs to score at least 18 points for his team to win the match.
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Conversely, the final player on team Mark's Team needs to hold his opponent to 18 points or fewer for his team to win the match.
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Final Match Score

Once all sets are scored, the overall score sheet for both teams can be reviewed. To submit the score sheet to the League Manager, click "SUBMIT MATCH." Both teams are encouraged to score the match and compare score sheets at the conclusion of the match for accuracy. Both teams may submit the match.

In this example, Steven did in fact hold his opponent to fewer than 18 points.
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This shows the overall scoresheet for The Sandbaggers.
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This shows the overall scoresheet for Mark's Team.
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Join the USA Pool League Today

Whether you are a player looking for the most fair and fun format or you want to start your own successful league business, the USA Pool League is the right choice.

FIND A USA POOL LEAGUE
START A USA POOL LEAGUE

Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino to Undergo Multi Hundred Million Dollar Renovation

12/9/2020

We have some exciting news about the future of the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, host venue for the CueSports International Expo, which currently includes the BCA Pool League World Championships, USA Pool League National Championships, Diamond Las Vegas Open and Predator World 10-Ball Championship.

There have been many rumors about the future of the Rio over the last few years. Many of our members have contacted us to say they heard Caesars closed the Rio and our events were moving, or the Rio is being demolished and a Major League Baseball stadium will be built in its place, or the COVID-19 pandemic has closed the Rio for good, and many others.

The truth is that the Rio had been for sale for several years. In December of 2019, Dreamscape Companies purchased the Rio from Caesars. Under the terms of the sale, Caesars will continue to operate the property until 2022, at which time Dreamscape will take over all operations. According to Dreamscape's Director of Group Sales for the Rio, after its takeover, "the Rio will commence a top to bottom multi hundred million dollar renovation and will return to its founding philosophy of a fun and energetic vibe. The renovated hotel suites will be luxurious yet approachable."

"The Rio will commence a top to bottom multi hundred million dollar renovation and will return to its founding philosophy of a fun and energetic vibe. The renovated suites will be luxurious yet approachable."

- Dreamscape Companies

The property will continue to operate during the renovations with minimal disruption to our events. The CueSports International Expo is contracted with the Rio through 2025 and likely beyond. We are thrilled that its home will become one of the most updated properties in Las Vegas.

CueSports International (CSI) is an international pool league and event leader and is currently comprised of three divisions: CSI Leagues, CSI Events and CSI Media. CSI Leagues manages the BCA Pool League and USA Pool League, CSI Events produces numerous amateur and professional events around the globe and CSI Media creates live streaming and digital content. Through its vision and strategic alliances, CSI is “shaping the future of pool.” For more information about CSI or any of its divisions, visit www.playcsipool.com or find CueSports International on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter.

2021 CueSports International Expo Rescheduled to Sept 1-11

12/4/2020

The 2021 CueSports International Expo, previously scheduled for March 3-13 is being rescheduled to September 1-11.

The event is a global pool spectacle that consists of the BCA Pool League World Championships, USA Pool League National Championships, Diamond Las Vegas Open, Predator World 10-Ball Championship, industry exhibitors, meetings, seminars and more. The entire Rio Convention Center, which includes more than 160,000 square feet of floor space, is taken over by the event.

The safety of our members and staff remains our top priority. The rise of COVID-19 cases and tighter restrictions being implemented around the world has created the need to reschedule the event. The new dates of September 1-11 will help ensure everyone’s safety.

BCA Pool League World Championships (Sept 1-11)
The new dates also provide the added benefit of allowing everyone the opportunity to become eligible.

No requirements have been changed for 2020 members. 2020 BCA Pool League members who play at least four (4) weeks in a single division session during the 2020 calendar year are eligible.

In addition, 2021 BCA Pool League members who play at least four (4) weeks in a single division session between January 1 and the registration deadline of August 2, 2021 will also be eligible. In fact, 2021 members can become eligible for the 2021 & 2022 BCA Pool League World Championships simultaneously!

Click here for all event info.

USA Pool League National Championships (Sept 1-11)
No requirements have been changed for 2020 members. USA Pool League members who play at least four (4) weeks in a single division session during the 2020 calendar year are eligible.

In addition, USA Pool League members who play at least four (4) weeks in a single division session between January 1 and the registration deadline of August 2, 2021 will also be eligible. In fact, USA Pool League members can become eligible for the 2021 & 2022 USA Pool League National Championships simultaneously!

Click here for all event info.

Diamond Las Vegas Open (Sept 1-4)
This event is played on 9-foot Diamond tables and is limited to the first 128 players with $25,000 added money. More information on this event is coming soon.

Predator World 10-Ball Championship (Sept 6-10)
This is the only true World Championship event on U.S. soil. It is limited to 64 of the top players in the world and invitations are based on WPA rankings. More information on this event is coming soon.

Tournament Registrations
For those of you who have already registered, your tournament registration is still in place and no action is required.

Hotel Reservations
If you have already reserved your room at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino based on the March dates, you must contact the hotel to cancel that reservation. You will then need to rebook your room based on the new dates by Aug 18 using the link on the official event webpages. Using the link ensures that you receive the special group discount.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. However, this is a necessary change to ensure the safety of all members and staff.

We look forward to seeing everyone in beautiful Las Vegas in September!

New FargoRate App Available Now!

10/14/2020

We are excited to announce that FargoRate has released its brand new app which is now available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. We are even more excited to announce that BCA Pool League, USA Pool League and CSI members get the advanced mode for free ($12.99 per year for non-members).

Free mode

Anyone can download the FargoRate app and use the following basic features for free.

View your rating
Search for individual players
Save favorites
Find fair races, match odds and race charts
Upcoming events
Top player lists

Advanced Mode

Advanced mode contains much more, including everything listed in free mode plus...

See your entire FargoRate match history
Summarized history against particular opponents
Rating change over time
Advanced search capability - search by city, state, country, minimum rating, maximum rating, established or unestablished or any combination of criteria.
League stats & schedule
CSI digital membership card

Again, enabling the advanced features normally requires an annual subscription (currently $12.99 per year). However, it is free for all BCA Pool League, USA Pool League and CSI members.

Below is a brief tutorial on how to navigate and use this powerful tool.

Claiming Your Record

FargoRate has made it easier than ever to claim your record and setup your account.

Find your FargoRate record by searching your name in the search field. If your name displays and you're confident that it's you (i.e. the correct name, city & state), select it.
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If you already have an app account setup in FargoRate, it will display your record with your truncated email address and ask you to enter your password. If you don't remember your password, click "FORGOT PASSWORD."
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If you have a FargoRate record but your app account is not yet setup, it will display your record with no email address and ask you to enter your email address & password.
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If you can't locate your record, it may be that you don't have a FargoRate record at all. Contact them at support@fargorate.com.
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Menu Options

Below is an overview of the menu options.

Once you login, you are taken to your personal profile which shows some of your personal rating stats. Click the "menu icon" to reveal more options.
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Within the menu, view your membership card, top players lists, settings & more.
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If you select "Player Card," you will see your personal membership card with your membership number. This digital card can be used at CSI events for faster service.
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This is an example of one of the Top Player Lists. More lists will be available in the future.
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Match History

View your entire FargoRate match history.

There are several options across the bottom. Select the "people icon" to see your complete match history.
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Scroll through your match history or search for particular opponents. Click on an opponent to reveal the "view matches against" button. Click it to see a summary of your matches against that person.
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The resulting summary will show some summary stats against that particular person.
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League Integration

View your league stats and schedule right from the app. This is an integration with the Fargorate League Management System (LMS) which we provide for free to all BCA Pool Leagues & USA Pool Leagues.

Click the "fire icon" to view your league stats and schedule if your league uses LMS (which we provide for free).
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The league stats screen shows a summary of your performance in league, team standings, player standings and more.
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Click "Schedule" to see a list of your team's upcoming league matches. Select a match to get more info on that match.
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The resulting screen shows both teams with its rosters, player ratings and rating robustness.
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Upcoming Events

Stay up to date on upcoming events powered by Fargorate.

Click the "notes icon" to see a list of upcoming events.
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Click on an event to be directed to the official webpage for that event for more info or to register.
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Player Search

Search for players, access the race calulator and more.

At any time, click the "search icon" to search for players.
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The "Player Search" screen appears.
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Search for a specific person in the search field. Once the person is found, several option may appear. In this example, we will add the player to a race.
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Search for another player and add him or her to the race as well. Both players' ratings are now entered in the rating fields. Click the "Find Race" button.
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The "Races" screen displays the set of recommended hot, medium & mild races. Use the two players you searched for earlier or click in the rating fields to type in specific ratings.
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Click on "Odds" to display the Odds screen. This shows the statistic probaby of each player winning given the race for each player.
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Click on "Charts" to display the Race Charts screen. Select the desired R chart to see the recommended races (displayed in orange) if handicapping is used.
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Advanced Search & Filtering

This is where searching gets serious. Want a list of the top players in your city? Want a list of everyone in your state under a certain rating? No problem.

Click the "Filter" menu to perform an advanced search.
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Here you can search in many different ways. In this example, we are searching for all established players rated 350-720 in Columbus, Ohio.
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The resulting list display alphabetically by last name. Click the "Sort" menu to change how the list is displayed.
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In the "Sort" menu, we select "Rating: Highest first" as an example.
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Here is our sorted list of all established players in Columbus, Ohio rated 350-720 sorted by rating.
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At any time, click the "heart icon" of a player to save him or her to your favorites list. To see your favorite players, click the "heart icon" at the top of the screen.
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Your favorite players are displayed. Click the "heart icon" again to remove a person from your favorites.
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Want advanced mode for free?

Advanced mode (value of $12.99/year) is free for all BCA Pool League, USA Pool League and CSI members. To join, select one of the options below or call us at 800-USA-POOL.

JOIN THE BCA POOL LEAGUE
JOIN THE USA POOL LEAGUE

Predator One Pool 10x4 Exhibition to be Streamed on the CSI YouTube Channel

9/10/2020

CueSports International (CSI), Predator and One Pool Sports TV are excited to announce that the Predator One Pool 10x4 Exhibition match will be streamed for free on the CSI YouTube channel Saturday, September 12 at 2pm ET / 11am PT.

The match will feature Joshua Filler, Albin Ouschan, Francisco Sanchez-Ruiz and Tyler Styer competing against each other in a race to 60 points (explained below).

One Pool was created as a means to allow players to compete remotely while avoiding travel restrictions and safety concerns. The players will be in separate locations with cameras covering their respective tables and alternate racks until one player reaches 60 points.

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to the CSI YouTube channel and CLICK THE BELL ICON to turn on notifications to be alerted when the event begins or when other free content is added to the channel.

Rules Summary

The game is 10-ball.
The player breaks the rack and has the option to take ball in hand after the break.
- For a break to be valid, at least one ball must be pocketed.
Balls must be shot in succession and the WPA rules of 10-ball apply with the exception that the 10-ball may be pocketed early for a win.
The player is awarded one point per ball pocketed. However...
- If the player takes ball in hand after the break and legally pockets the 10-ball without a miss, he is awarded 10 points.
- If the player does not take ball in hand after the break and legally pockets the 10-ball without a miss, he is awarded 15 points.
All players shoot the same number of racks.
The first player to earn 60 points stops shooting. If any other players reach 60 points within the same number of racks, it is a tie. The players who have tied play an additional rack. The player with the highest score wins.

WATCH HERE

CueSports International (CSI) is an international pool league and event leader and is currently comprised of three divisions: CSI Leagues, CSI Events and CSI Media. CSI Leagues manages the BCA Pool League and USA Pool League, CSI Events produces numerous amateur and professional events around the globe and CSI Media creates live streaming and digital content. Through its vision and strategic alliances, CSI is “shaping the future of pool.” For more information about CSI or any of its divisions, visit www.playcsipool.com or find CueSports International on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter.

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