Options are great!
What is a big part of what makes the bca pool league so great and unique?
BCA pool league operators have the option and ability use any rules they choose.
Typically in most areas, there are many different options and rulesets available for players to fit their desired playstyle.
Providing a place for everyone to play.
Which league is best for you?
That's for you to decide, but with so many options available, you are sure to find one you will love!
The following is meant for informational purposes only. And should not be interpreted to be directed at or to disparage any bca pool league and/or operator(s), any other pool league and/or operator(s), or the Billiard Congress of America. In fact, it should be regarded as the opposite, celebrating, applauding, and acknowledging differences and options within the sport of billiards.
The following is a discussion about the rules and how they are referred to and referenced.
why does it matter?
Understanding "BCA Rules" & BCAPL/USAPL Rule Differences
Q: What if my opponent claims we are playing by "BCA Rules"?
A: Ask them to clarify which rule set they are referring to. Since "BCA Rules" is not an actual rulebook, players should always verify which rules are being used when using the term "BCA rules". - If players used the term CSI rules, there would be no confusion and an easy to way to reference a rule book to solve any disputes. -
Q: Are there official "BCA Rules" for pool?
A: No, there is no such thing as official "BCA Rules." This is a common misconception. The Billiard Congress of America (BCA) does not publish or enforce any standardized rule set for pool leagues.
Q: What rulebook does the BCAPL use?
A: The BCAPL (BCA Pool League) uses the Official Rulebook of CSI (CueSports International) as its default rule set. However, BCAPL operators are not required to follow this rulebook and have the ability to modify or replace rules at their discretion.
Q: Can BCAPL league operators change the rules?
A: Yes. BCAPL league operators have complete control over their league’s rules. They can:
- Use the Official CSI Rulebook as written.
- Modify specific rules to fit their league’s needs.
- Use entirely different rules, such as APA or bar rules.
This means that there is no single, standardized set of BCAPL rules.
Q: Can USAPL league operators change the rules?
A: No. USAPL league operators must follow the Official Rulebook of CSI exactly as written, with no modifications allowed.
This is a major difference between BCAPL and USAPL:
- BCAPL operators can modify or replace rules.
- USAPL operators must enforce the Official CSI Rulebook, and may add local bylaws.
Q: Why is the term "BCA Rules" misleading?
A: The term "BCA Rules" creates confusion because:
- The BCA does not create or enforce league rules.
- BCAPL operators can use any rules they want.
- Different BCAPL leagues may have different rule sets.
Players who hear "BCA Rules" may assume a universal rule set exists when, in reality, the rules vary from league to league.
Q: How did the misconception of "BCA Rules" start?
A: The BCAPL was originally associated with the Billiard Congress of America (BCA), and many players mistakenly assumed the BCA created the rules. However, the BCAPL is owned and operated by CueSports International (CSI), not the BCA. The BCA does not run any leagues or set any official league rules.
Q: What rules are used at the BCAPL National Championships?
A: The BCAPL National Championships follow the Official CSI Rulebook without modifications during the tournament. Additional regulations, such as dress code, shot clock, and fouls, are outlined in the BCAPL National Championships Tournament Guide.
- No local league rule variations are allowed.
- Players should review the Official CSI Rulebook and the Tournament Guide before competing.
Q: How can I find out what rules my BCAPL or USAPL league follows?
A: The best way is to check directly with your league operator:
- BCAPL leagues may have different rule variations, so confirm with the operator.
- USAPL leagues will always follow the Official CSI Rulebook without any modifications.
🚨 STOP SAYING "BCA RULES"—IT DOESN’T EXIST! 🚨
Let’s clear this up once and for all:
✅ BCA does NOT run leagues.
✅ BCAPL operators can use ANY rules they want.
✅ USAPL follows the Official CSI Rulebook—NO modifications.
✅ At Nationals, only the CSI Rulebook applies.
If your local BCAPL league has different rules, those are your operator’s house rules—not "BCA Rules." Let’s call it what it is! 🎱🔥