BCA definition –

Sportsmanship is simply treating your teammates and opponents with courtesy and respect.  While everyone wants to win, the purpose of league play is to have fun playing the great sport of billiards in the company of friends.

 

By following a few simple guidelines, you can help ensure everyone gets the most out of their BCA League experience.

 

  1. KNOW THE RULES: Most disputes can be avoided if both players are knowledgeable about the rules of the game.
  2. PLAY YOUR GAME: Playing your best not only makes you better its makes everyone you play against better as well.  You’ll be respected far more if you shoot your best every time you shoot.  “Sandbagging” or keeping your skill level down by missing shots or intentionally throwing games or matches is considered unsportsmanlike, especially in a league that uses a handicap system.  Handicaps are meant to accurately measure of your skill.  It’s poor sportsmanship to give anything but your best effort.
  3. NO SHARKING: “Sharking” is any act designed to disrupt your opponent or their concentration at any time during the game.  Examples are using profanity, making sarcastic comments, refusing to acknowledge an obvious foul, standing close to your opponent’s line of vision or creating sudden noise.  These rules apply not only to you, but also to any person who is in your “cheering section”.
  4. RESOLVE DISPUTES THE PEACEFULLY: Disputes will occasionally occur, and most will arise over a judgment call.  Learn the procedures for settling disputes in your league and follow them thoroughly.  This way, disputes can be resolved fairly and evenly.
  5. RESPECT WHERE YOU PLAY: Pool halls and bars help sponsor your league and provide use of their facilities and equipment.  Whether at home or away, you represent your host pool hall or bar.

 

Sportsmanship is all about courtesy and respect.  Be sure to shake the hand of your opponent before and after each game, acknowledge your opponent’s good shots, and make sure that the reputation of you and your teammates is that of good sportsmanship. Win or lose, that’s what league play is all about…having fun.