By Laws

THE NORTHWEST FLORIDA 8-BALL ASSOCIATION (Hereinafter referred to as NWFEBA) The NWFEBA is an independent nonprofit organization, the object of which is playing and promoting the game of Pool and Billiards. It will do so to serve the interests of the league membership and local community while enhancing the image of the league and the sport of Billiards. Article I: Purpose/ Objectives Section 1.1 The mission of the North West Florida Eight Ball Association is to and promote and govern within their association all sports of billiards and pool in the Pensacola area and surrounding communities and by following the rules established by the BCA (Billiards of Congress Of America) With additions of the NWFPBA and further more it is the leagues intention to sanction amateur leagues, promote and sanction amateur tournaments, and help to increase the awareness of and participation in the sport to all people, while working with the entire billiards community to increase the overall growth of billiards. NWFPBA will perform all of its functions on a non-profit basis with the highest ethical standards and fair treatment of all its members and the entire billiards community. Section 1.2 The objectives of this Association shall be: 1. To afford due consideration to, and the expression of, and opinion, with regards to any questions affecting the league and sport in furtherance of all billiard sports. 2. To cooperate with other organizations within and without the billiard sport in furtherance of NWFEBA's objectives. 3. To elevate billiard sports to their highest level locally and possibly nationally. 4. To publish and promulgate proper playing rules recognized by the BCA, seeking to unify and standardize rules of play locally, nationally and internationally. 5. To promote good fellowship and better social understanding of billiard sports by sanctioning billiard leagues and supporting billiard tournaments by the Association and by its individual members. Section 1.3 In furtherance of these purposes and objectives, but not in limitation thereof, the Association shall have the power. 1. To collect and disseminate statistics and other information. 2. To conduct league and tournament activities, including advertising and publicity. 3. To further training and education of those connected with, or desirous of becoming affiliated with the sport. 4. To promote sound accounting practices, to study financial practices as they relate to the sport, and to disseminate pertinent information to its members. 5. To disseminate information of a general economic, social and government character, to analyze subjects relating thereto, and to secure and present the view of the members to other organizations, the government and the public. 6. To engage in any lawful activities which will enhance the efficiency and economic progress of the sport and inform the league membership of its scope and character. 7. To do anything necessary and proper to accomplish the objectives herein set forth, all of which shall be consistent with public interest and league membership as well as in the interest of the billiard sports. Article II: Membership Section 2.1 There shall be four classes of membership, each with its own privileges, duties, and dues structures. 1. Sanctioned League Member /Player - Any dues-paying player sanctioned within the NWFPBA during the Sept 1 - August 31 fiscal league year. Sanctioned League members are active players affiliated with active teams. Dues paying members in good standing with team affiliation will have the privileges of electing designated representatives to serve on the Board of Directors. 2. Sanctioned League Sponsors - Any person who owns an establishment and sponsors a team that is actively involved in the league or who is active in the game of billiards and supports the goals and missions of the league. 3. Certified Referee Member - Any person active in cue sports who has met accreditation requirements to become an NWFEBA referee and supports the goals and mission of the League. Certified Referee Members will have the privileges of electing designated representatives to serve on the Board of Directors. 4. Affiliated Player Member - Any player who is not a Sanctioned Player Member of the League and wishes to join our league to play in a NWFPBA sanctioned pool tournaments that are offered to the public as open tournaments must pay a honorary membership of fifteen dollars ($15.00). This does not include the green fee or other fees related to the tournament. Section 2.2 Each team shall appoint a member of their team (Captain) to the Secretary of the Association, a person to be its representative at any of the mandatory meetings for the purpose of acting upon business matters. Section 2.3 Duration of Membership and Resignation - Membership in this Association may terminate by death, by voluntary termination by the member. All rights, privileges, and interest of a member in or to the Association shall cease on the termination of membership. Any officer may, by giving written notice of such intention, withdraw their membership. Such notice shall be presented to the Board of Directors, at the next succeeding meeting of the Board of Directors. Withdrawals shall be effective upon fulfillment of all obligations to the date of withdrawal. Becoming a Member Requirements for each player are required to obtain a membership: Full Name no nicknames Address Telephone number you can be reached at within a short period of time Email address Section 2.4 Suspension and Expulsion - A member may be suspended or terminated for cause. Sufficient cause for such suspension or termination of membership shall be a violation of the by-laws or any lawful rule or practice duly adopted by the Association, or any other conduct prejudicial to the interest of the Association. Suspension or expulsion shall be by two-thirds vote of the entire membership of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee. However, no such vote shall be effective unless a statement of the charges shall have been mailed by registered post to the last recorded address of the member at least fifteen (15) days before such vote is taken. This statement shall be accompanied by a notice of the time and place of the meeting of the Board of Directors at which the charges constituting the basis for suspension or expulsion shall be considered and such vote shall be taken. The member shall have the opportunity to appear in person or by his representative at such meeting and present any defense to such charges before action is taken thereon. Article III: Dues Section 3.1 The annual dues for each member class of the Association shall be determined by the membership at the Annual Meeting. Section 3.2 All Sanction League Members membership dues are for one (1) year, renewable at the start of each new period. The membership dues covers the period from September 1 of one year through August 31 of the next year. Those members who fail to pay their dues more than sixty (30) days after the renewal date will be dropped from the membership rolls and forfeit all rights and privileges of membership without further notice or hearing. Additionally any team who actively plays this disqualified member will be subject to the Illegal Player Rule and Penalty. (Official Playing Rules Section I C 2 &3) Article IV: Membership Meetings Section 4.1 Annual Membership Meeting - There shall be an annual meeting of the membership of the Association in August of each year, unless otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors. The purpose of the annual meeting shall be to elect or appoint, as applicable, members of the Board of Directors, to receive annual reports, and to transact other business. The annual membership meeting shall be open to all classes of Association members. Only League members in good standing at the time of the meeting may vote on matters before the Association (with the exception of the appointment of designated representatives to serve on the Board of Directors. Notice of such meeting, will be communicated through the league by Email, broadcast fax or other means needed to give membership notice. Section 4.2 Other regular meetings of the Association membership other than the annual meeting of the membership may be held upon a majority vote of the Board of Directors. Notice of time and place of such meeting and subject to be considered will be communicated through the league by Email, broadcast fax or other means needed to give membership notice. Section 4.3 Attendance by representatives of membership at any regular or special meeting of the membership of the Association shall conduct business by majority rule. Section 4.4 The order of business at meeting shall be as follows: ORDER OF THE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING: 1) Call to Order by the President Roll call 2) Reading of the previous Annual Membership meeting 3) Officers Reports Treasurer's statement of the account, Expenditure report Final balance Secretary's Report League Vice Presidents Reports Committee Reports Tournament Referee in Chief Bar Establishment Liaison President Report - State of the League 4) Unfinished Business 5) Election of Officers 6) New Business 7) Announcements 8) Adjournment All Sanctioned League Members in good standing will be allowed to vote. Section 4.5 The order of business may be altered or suspended at any meeting by a majority vote of the membership present. The usual parliamentary rules as laid down in "Robert's Rules of Order" shall govern all deliberations, when not in conflict with these by-laws. Article V. BOARD OF DIRECTORS/ OFFICERS OF THE LEAGUE Section 5.1 * The following will make up the Board of Directors (BOD): o President, o Men's Vice-President, o Women's Vice President, o Mixed Doubles Vice President o Treasurer, o Secretary o 2 elected members of the Men's Division o 2 elected members of the Women's Division o 1 member of the Mixed Doubles Division * The election of President, Treasurer and Secretary will take place at each Annual Membership Meeting. * The balance of the members of the BOD will be elected by the appropriate divisions annually. Section 5.2 * The Sanctioned League Players shall elect a President, Treasurer and Secretary from among the Board of Directors or a previous member of the BOD. The election shall be held at the Annual Membership by ballot of all in attendance. Section 5.3 * Elected officers shall take office on the date of the election and shall serve for a term of one year or until their successor is duly elected and qualified. Section 5.4 * Except as set forth below, vacancies in any office may be filled for the balance of the term thereof by the President. Section 5.5 ELIGIBILITY TO BE ELECTED AN OFFICER * Any office of President may be held by any person who is an Sanctioned League Member in good standing and active playing member of the NWFPBA and has served at least one term on the Executive Committee or served as an Officer of the Board of Directors. The remaining offices may be held by any league member who has served a minimum of one term on the EC. * The Executive Committee will be referred to henceforth as the EC. ELIGIBILITY TO BE TREASURER: * In order to be elected to the office of treasurer, you must be a bar owner and have been in business for a minimum period of two years. * The president, secretary and treasurer will have their names placed on the league's checking account. ELECTION OF OFFICERS: * Robert's Rules of Order will be adopted for the election of officers. * Nominations from the league membership will be brought to the attention of the officers * A thirty second time limit will be given for any further nominations. If there are no further nominations for that office, the nominations will be closed and a show of hands will determine the outcome. Section 5.6 DUTIES OF OFFICERS PRESIDENT: The duties of the president are as follows; * The President shall call meetings, to include dates and times and set the agenda for ALL meetings. * The President shall preside at ALL meetings which include but not limited to: a) Annual Membership Meeting b) Board of Directors Meetings c) Captains Meetings * The President shall also, at the Annual Membership Meeting of the Association and at such other times as the President shall deem proper, communicate to the Association or the Board of Directors such matters and make such suggestions as may in the President's opinion tend to promote the welfare and increase the usefulness of the Association, and shall perform such other duties as are necessary incident to the office of President or as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors. * To see that the league runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible according to the by-laws set forth in this document. * To indicate or relate to the other officers and EC members their job duties, special assignments or other league business that needs to be conducted. * Any committees that are to be formed will be formed at the discretion of the president. All persons appointed to these committees will be appointed by the president. VICE-PRESIDENT: * There will be one Vice present elected by the specific membership at the designated captains meeting as set forth by the President. Men's Division Their duties for there specific divisions of play area as follows: * To monitor the activities of their specific division, which includes listening and / or settling any situations that may arise during league activity. * Assist the president in any special assignments directed toward him. * The Men's Divisional Vice President shall perform the President's duties in the event of the President's temporary disability or absence from meetings. * In the event the President's office becomes vacant, the Men's Vice President shall become the acting President to fill the unexpired term of the President. * In the event the Vice President's office becomes vacant, the President may at his/her discretion appoint a Vice President to fill the unexpired term of the Vice President unless the Vice President was vacated as a result of termination at will by the Board of Directors at which time the position will be reappointed by the remaining Board of Directors. Women's Division * The duties will include, but are not limited to overseeing the ladies' division of the league, and assuming the duties of the president in the event that the Men's divisional Vice President is absent. Mixed Doubles Division * The duties will include, but are not limited to overseeing the mixed doubles division of the league, and assuming the duties of the president in the event that the Men's divisional Vice President and the Women's divisional Vice President is absent. TREASURER * Shall be elected by the sanction league players at the Annual Membership meeting. The treasurer who will serve at the pleasure of the League membership and may be terminated at will by the Board of Directors if improprieties are found. The Treasurer's duties call for keeping account of all monies received and expended for the use of the Association, and making disbursements authorized by the Board. The Treasurer shall deposit all sums received in the bank or banks, approved by the Board of Directors, and shall make a report at the Annual Membership Meeting or when called upon by the President. The duties of the Treasurer, under authority of the Board of Directors, may be assigned in whole or in part to an assistant treasurer or another designee. Collect the banquet reservation money for the seasonal banquet. Take care of reservations at the door for the banquet. * The Treasurer will be paid according to the schedule set by the Board of Directors. * The funds, books, and vouchers shall, with the exception of confidential reports submitted by members, at all times be subject to verification and inspection by the Board of Directors. At the expiration of the Treasurer's term of office, the Treasurer shall deliver over to the Treasurer-elect all books, money and other property, or, in the absence of a Treasurer-elect, to the Executive Director. SECRETARY --The duties of the secretary are as follows: * The secretary's main function is to take care of the league statistics as outlined in the bylaws. * Carry out any orders the president requests for the benefit of league. * Call the officers and committee members for the ALL meetings, or any other meetings needed to conduct league business, at the request of the President * Correspond to the league members by any means, verbal or written, to inform the league as to it's schedule. This is to include, but is not limited to league meetings, tournaments, referee schools, and playoff schedules for both individual and team playoffs. * Pick up the any league documents or monies from the designated pick-up points and deliver or mail the standings sheets, score sheets, and any other league information to each league location. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE * EC meetings will from this point forward by known as the "Board of Directors Meeting" * The EC will consist of elected league members currently on a team's roster from the respected divisions. * The EC will assist the officers in carrying out the duties and responsibilities of the NWFEBA * Two members from the Men's Division elected by the Men's membership at the first Fall Captains meeting. * Two members from the Women's Division elected by the Women's membership at the first Fall Captains meeting * One member from the Doubles Division elected by the Mixed Doubles membership at a meeting near the start of play in July through September or as set forth by the president. * All members will have equal voting power with one vote. A member must be present to cast their vote during any voting process. No proxies. * The members of the EC are under the direction of the President and will be assigned specific duties as indicated. * The President may take a telephone poll of the EC in situations that need an immediate response. ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE COMMITEE MEMBERS: * Nominations will be called upon with the number of nominees not exceeding three. * The members will vote the required amount of times needed for the number of EC members needing election by a show of hands. * The nominees with the greatest amount of votes will assume the offices of the EC members. * Members will assume their duties upon being elected. DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: * The duties of the EC will consist of monitoring the implementation of the rules as set forth by the league. * The EC will also monitor the business of the league in accordance with the by-laws. * They are required to attend all monthly meetings to the best of their ability and will be called upon by the officers of the league to assist them in any capacity related to the league's functions including but not limited to refereeing, Awards ceremony help, tournaments, attending referee schools, special events, etc. * They will be knowledgeable concerning the bylaws and playing rules. * * Repeated noncompliance, excessive no-shows, and nonperformance of duties will be grounds for dismissal of officers or EC members by a two thirds vote of the EC. A new member will be appointed by a majority vote of the EC. TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR: * The TD will be appointed by the president. * The TD will conduct the league tournaments held at locations designated by the BOD. * The TD will have the final decision in any arguments not settled by the players involved. Article VI: LEAGUE MEETINGS Section 6.1 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING * The Annual Membership meeting will be conducted near the beginning of each new Fall Season. * The purpose of the meeting is to elect Board of Officers and Executive Committee members Section 6.2 ORDER OF THE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING: * See Section 4.4 Section 6.3 CAPTAINS MEETING: * This meeting is to be called the Thursday following the annual membership meeting and one week prior to the start of the season. * Failure to send a team member will result in a 15 game lose credited to your standings for the start of the season. * The purpose is to inform, especially the new teams, the procedure, roles, and code of conduct to be maintained in the league. * Rules and playing schedules will be handed out. * Any other information deemed necessary to maintain the integrity of the league will be discussed. * General Format of Captains , Meeting 1. Roll Call by Team [absent teams receive 15 games lost penalty] 2. Treasurer's Report 3. Vice President's Report [rules and bylaws] 4. Secretaries Report [scheduling and dues] 5. Old business 6. New business [voting on motions presented at reorganizational meeting] 7. Adjournment Section 6.4 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING VOTE PROCEDURE: * Only those Sanctioned League Players who have paid their dues in full can secure their place in the league and gain voting rights. Refer to voting procedure. Section 6.5 VOTING BY BALLOT: * In the event the league decides to vote by written ballot, the ballot will be made up by the secretary and approved by the EC. * Only the information regarding the vote will be placed on the ballot. No other information will be placed on the written ballot. * The time and place of the vote can be determined by the president or by a motion placed on the floor, seconded and voted upon. * An EC member or representative will oversee the balloting procedures. 1. A list will be provided to the representative for each active member sign. 2. Each player will vote in the immediate area and then place his ballot in the box. 3. The ballots will be counted by no less than four individuals. The counters will consist of the person in charge of the balloting, two EC members, and one neutral league member. Article VII: PAID POSITIONS OF THE LEAGUE: Section 7.1 The Secretary will be paid for expenses and for any supplies needed to perform the services needed by the league. Supplies are not limited to but include printer paper, printer ink and postage stamps. These supplies will be paid for by the league upon proof of purchase. All requests for payment must include a valid receipt for items purchased. These expenditures may be audited at any time. * The secretary will also receive a mileage allowance that is equal to the fair value for that period. This amount will be determined by the BOD Section 7.2 The Treasurer will be paid for expenses and for any supplies needed to perform the services needed by the league. All paid positions will receive a 1099 from the league. Section 7.3 OTHER REIMBURSEMENTS: * All other moneys paid to any league member will be reimbursement for materials if a receipt is presented to the treasurer and approved by the president. Section 7.4 INTERNET SERVICES * The Web site is the property of Top Gun Pool. NWFPBA contracts these services on a yearly basis. The contract will be voted upon and negotiated by the BOD on a yearly basis. Article VIII SPONSOR RELATED OBLIGATIONS: * The League understands the importance of the relationship of the players of the league and the proprietors of the tavern and bar business. In most cases the sponsor is unaware of the activities of the league unless they are an active player. Therefore it is the captain's responsibility to keep the sponsors informed of all league activities. If the sponsor wishes they may gain their information through the web site and or by calling a member of the BOD. Section 8.1 SPONSOR DUES: * To sponsor a team, the location owner, manager, or sponsored team, must pay in advance or paid by the second week after the start of the season and again at half time. * The amount will be determined by the BOD. * It is prudent that the captain of the team make sure that the sponsors dues is paid or the team will be penalized 10 games in the lost column each week that the sum is not paid. * Sponsor Dues should be paid to the secretary or it may be paid to a BOD member Always consider getting a receipt. * The payment may be mailed to the leagues official address which may be changed from season to season. Section 8.2 DELINQUENT NON PAYMENT OF DUES * Dues must be paid by Friday at 6:00PM after the second night of play or the following penalties will be imposed. 1. If the dues are not paid by the above time there will be a 10% late charge PER WEEK added to the principle amount owed to the league. 2. Any team not paying the full amount by Friday at 6:00PM after the second night of play will also be given a penalty of 0-10 score for all weeks that dues are not paid. This will be retroactive to the first night of play. 3. The penalty will continued to be enforced for the balance of the half even if dues are paid in later weeks. These 10 games a merely a penalty against the team and will not reflect against their weekly score. These games will be counted as available games and may penalize players for individual honors. Section 8.3 SPONSOR REQUIREMENTS * All sponsors must have two (2) 3 1/2 x 7 coin-operated pool tables. Sponsors with more than two (2) teams will have four (4) 3 1/2 x 7 coin-operated pool tables. * The tables must conform to the leagues table set up as noted in the Rules Section. This means that a foul line and a spot clearly marked will be clearly marked. * For league play it is encouraged that the tables be kept clean and in playable condition. * Should the tables be declared unplayable, a protest by one of the teams should be filed for a BOD investigation. Should the board fine that the tables were unplayable the game will be declared a NO SHOW and the team representing the bar will be assessed a penalty of 0-25. * Play will be on the most accessible tables at the host location. * Each bar must furnish a bridge or "crutch" or may forfeit a game. * All Players associated with the NWFPBA must be of legal drinking age and of amateur status. * Sponsors are encouraged to attend the Annual Membership Meeting. All sponsors may choose to provide one complimentary drink for each roster player on each team, each night of play. This includes playoffs and all star matches. The drink will be of the same value as the one the player has been purchasing prior the complimentary drink (Example: a player drinking water will be served water, etc.) The team captain will be responsible for giving the bartender a correct list of names and drinks for their team. The sponsor involved has the right to refuse a complimentary drink to anyone who is considered too intoxicated This is at the sponsors or their representatives sole discretion. No argumentsl! * When a new sponsor wishes to gain entry into the ranks of the NWFPBA, they will be restricted to one team their first season.. To have two teams after the first season, their attendance will be reviewed for acceptance of additional teams. * The review by the BOD will be contingent on their attendance and timely payment of dues. The BOD decision of the review is final. The BOD can waive the one team first season rule if the sponsor can affirm that they are able to field two teams. * A sponsor must possess at least a"2 COP, STATE OF FLORIDA, ALCOHOL BEVERAGE LICENSE". This license must provide for the consumption of the sold alcohol on the premises where it is purchased (the host location). There will be no exceptions to this rule. * No sponsor can be voted out of the league except for a violation of the league bylaws or rules (forfeits, non-payment of dues, sportsmanship, equipment violations, or unacceptable conditions.). Section IX: PLAYOFF FORMAT TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL DIVISION PLAY FORMAT In some cases from year to year the playoff format may be changed to compensate for the design of the league and the divisions. The format for Divisional play is as follows: .Divisional winners for any session is based on the best percentage for that particular session played. Section 9.1 Multiple Division Playoffs (All Leagues) * In a multiple division set up there will be a first half and second half divisional winner. * If a team wins both the first and second half, that team automatically goes to the divisional play-offs. * If there is a situation whereby the first half and second half winner are different, these teams will meet in an inter-divisional play-off to determine which team will go to the divisional league play-offs. * The interdivisional play-offs will take place the week immediately following the last night of regular season play. The playoff may take place at any time upon agreement of the BOD and the captains of the teams * The format for the play-offs will be the same described in LEAGUE PLAY-OFF FORMAT. * The winner of the inter-divisional play-offs will be declared the first place winner for that division and the loser will be declared as the second place winner of that division. * The remaining third through tenth places will be based on the overall best percentage for total games played in the season. Section 9.2 PLAY-OFF FORFEITS: * Forfeits count as wins and losses for each respective team during the play-offs . Section 9.3 PLAY-OFF REFEREES: * Referees for the play-off will be appointed by the BOD. It is hoped that the referees are certified by the league. * There will be one referee for each table. * Inter-divisional play-off's will be refereed by the teams involved unless otherwise requested by the teams involved. * One BOD member will also be present at the IDP Article X: TROPHY DIVISION AWARDS ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA: Section 10.1 Eligibility For Trophies * A player must participate in at least 75% of the available games played in the season to be eligible for individual awards. * Teams, and players on teams that have had excessive forfeits may be in jeopardy of loosing their awards and banquet privileges. (This may become a BOD decision) * Providing all qualifications are met, awards for the league will be presented as outlined under Team Awards. Section 10.0 TROPHY SIZE CRITERIA * No trophy will be more than 4 feet tall. Section 10.1 INDIVIDUAL AWARDS * Individual awards will be awarded to the TOP 10 players of each division. * Each player in the Top 10 will receive a trophy or plaque of varying sizes from 1st place through 10th place. Section 10.2 TEAM AWARDS: Once the final standings have been determined, awards will be as follows: * League champions will receive the Dave "River" Stevens Founders' Trophy for the duration of their championship. It will be passed to the next season's winners at the banquet. The location owner will sign a total responsibility document for the trophy. * In order to keep the trophy in the bars location that bar must be a sponsor of the league. Should that sponsor decide not to participate in the league the team will surrender the trophy back to the league * If the team changes locations in any situation and is a team in good standing with the NWFEBA, may take the trophy to the next location. * League Champions will also receive the championship trophy. * League Runner-up will receive the runner-up trophy. * Divisional Champions that did not qualify for the championship round will receive the divisional first place trophy. * Trophies will be given to second and third place in each division. * Standings plaques will be given to the remaining eligible teams in each division Section 10.3 OTHER AWARDS: * Other plaques to be awarded to individuals will be voted on by the BOD Article XI: AWARDS CEREMONY: * Upon the completion of each session of play the BOD will organize an awards ceremony for the purpose of handing out the awards to the players and the teams. The format for the ceremony will be determined by the BOD and commensurate with the leagues financial ability. * If refreshments at the Awards Ceremony is voted upon, it will be put on as a cost per head basis. A reservation fee will be set by the BOD according to the cost of the refreshment set up. Article XII: BANQUET FORMAT * If at some point the BOD determines that a banquet should be given for it s membership the following format will be implemented. * The banquet will be for its league members who are in good standing, plus one guest per member. Additional guests may attend but will pay, in advance, a non-refundable fee set by the BOD. * A reservation fee will be set by the BOD according to the cost of an individual dinner. This fee will be given to the league as a deposit and will reserve a dinner. If the player and/or primary guest do not show, the fee or deposit becomes non-refundable and will be placed in the league treasury. * This reservation fee, or part of it, will be returned to them at the banquet if they arrive at a time specified by the BOD. Reservations are non-transferable. * The format of the banquet will be determined by the membership if it deviates from the traditional banquet. * The BOD is responsible to its members to provide the date, time and location for this banquet. * Format of the banquet will consist of at least a dinner and an awards ceremony. The balance of the banquet format is at the discretion of the EC. * To be eligible to attend the banquet, a player from the team must have played at least twenty games unless a wavier has been requested by the captain. * A picture lD. may be required for entry into the banquet. Article XIII: TOURNAMENT PROCEDURE: * All tournaments will be played by the rules adopted by the NWFEBA. Refer to the playing rules. * The appointed Tournament Director (TD) will be in charge of all tournaments. * All Tournaments will be approved by the BOD prior to the tournament being scheduled * Because of scheduling problems, tournament dates and times will be decided upon in the best interest of the sponsors and players. * Type of tournament, locations, player limit, and format will also be at the discretion of theTD. * The following guidelines will be used when possible. Averages: .0000-.4500 Cellar Dwellers .4501-.6000 Mid Pack .6001-1.000 Top Gun All averages Open Doubles combined average not greater than 1.250 Scotch Doubles combined average not greater than 1.250 * Players on teams that have not paid their dues, or members of teams that have excessive forfeits, will be ineligible for league tournaments during the season which the violations occur. 'Excessive forfeits' is defined as (1) two or more team no shows or (2) having not fielded a full compliment of five player two times in a half season, or three times during the course of a full season. Requests for a wavier must be submitted to the BOD in person at a meeting prior to each tournament. See "Team Delinquent Attendance Record Action": * The format of each tournament is double elimination unless otherwise decided upon by the BOD. Losers bracket winner must win two (2) in final round 1 otherwise noted on the information sheet. * The bar sponsoring the tournament will be required to put up a sum of money decided by the EC. (currently $50.00) * Entry fee is non-refundable and will be decid.ed upon by the BOD or TD. (currently $5). * The league will put up a sum of money decided upon by the BOD and determine the award system for that tournament. (currently 100.00) * To hold a men's tournament at any location, at least four tables are required. * To hold a women's tournament at any location, at least two tables are required * A new sponsor may enter the rotation at the last position. * The BOD may deem a location 'not acceptable' for a tournament. * All games will be called by the players involved unless a referee is requested by the players and approved by the Tournament Director. * The TD or BOD has the right to disqualify a player for unsportsmanlike conduct. * The TD has the final say. Article XIV: Handicap System Section 14.1 The following handicap system has been adopted and will be used: 1) Under the this handicap system each game played will be scored on a point system. 2) A player's average will continue to develop throughout the regular league and playoff schedule. 3) The player averages totaled are used to determine a "team" handicap. 4) A Round equals 5 games 5) A Match equals 5 rounds. 6) The points that a team scores in each game of a round plus any team handicap points they receive will determine which team wins the "Round Point". 7) The number of "Round Points " won (5 rounds) in each match will determine the success of the team. A. Scoring for each game is based on a 10-point system THE WINNER OF THE GAME ALWAYS GETS 10 POINTS B. How are points determined * Each player receives (1) point for each of their group of balls pocketed (solids or stripes) plus (3) points if they legally pocket the 8-ball. * A win is always worth (10) points to a player. The losing player always receives the point count for all of their group of balls pocketed (not on the table at the end of the game) to a maximum of (7) points. Section 14.2 Establishing A Handicap A. All new players or teams with new players upon their introduction to the league need to establish a handicap in the following manner. 1) Predetermined Handicaps for New Players joining the league: a. Women 6.7 b. Men 7.7 1) Once the handicap is established with the NWFEBA all players will carry the adjusted handicap from season to season. 2) If a player drops out from the league, changes teams and than re enters the league, he/she will assume the handicap that they last had. 3) Handicaps become official after 8 games. 4) The handicap will be based on the number of points (balls pocketed and wins) you accumulate divided by the number of games you played. EXAMPLE You play 5 games the first week and accumulate 42 points of a possible 50. The second week you accumulate only 31 points in 5 games. Your Total for the two weeks is 73 points for 10 games. 73/8 = 8.1. Your average for week 3 is 8.1 Handicaps will change week to week and will be recorded by the computer service. Article XV: Match Format Section 15.1 Types Of Format In the event the league ever decides on a different match form the following are the most common: (4) players play a single game in each of (4) rounds for a total of (16) games. (5) players play a single game in each of (4) rounds for a total of (20) games. (5) players play a single game in each of (5) rounds for a total of (25) games. Section 15.2 Score Sheet Your Starting Roster : 1) The score sheet that you print from the playing schedule will accommodate the match format of choice. 2) The home team fills out their roster first by entering player names depending on the match format decided on. 3) Subs may be listed at any time prior to the round they are being 'substituted' into the match. They do not have to be listed in any special order since your Roster will always be computer generated. 4) Players may be listed in any order regardless of their player averages. Open Players should have a "O" placed near their name to signify their status. 5) Should a team be short a player(s), "forfeit" is entered in the position that that player is expected to play unless they are using the open player rule. Section 15.3 Establishing Handicaps for the match: 1) At the start of every match round, the player's averages (to the nearest tenth) of each team are entered in the "average" column beside their roster order number. In the case of a first time player, a "6.7 for women and a 7.7 for men" is entered. The player averages are then totaled. Then you subtract the lowest number from the highest number. The difference (to the nearest tenth) is then rounded to the nearest whole number and is given to the team with the lower total as a team handicap. 2) This team handicap is to be entered in the "HANDICAP PER ROUND" column in the box. Section15.3A Forfeits: What Handicap to Use: 1) In the event that a forfeit is inevitable, the handicap for a forfeit will be the highest handicap of the rosters "non participating" or absent players. 2) There is a maximum handicap that is to be given in any one round: 5 players 25 game format gets a maximum of 10 points per round Section 15.4 Substitutions 1) They are permitted providing they are made at the start of each round. 2) In the round that they're subbing in, the substitute's average is entered and used to compute the new team average total to determine the new team handicap for that match round. Section 15.5 Order of the Break Shot 1) The home team never changes their order of play. 2) The home team's order of play does vary each match round as shown and according to the match format being used. 3) The home team breaks the first and third rounds and, in the fifth round, the breaks alternate as indicated with the extra break going to the home team. Section 15.6 Scorekeeping - Team Points 1) All games are scored on the maximum 10 point system including forfeited games which are scored 10 - 0. (The team forfeiting is awarded "0" Points.) 2) After a round has been completed, the points won by the players for each team are totaled along with the team handicap. 3) The team with the higher total receives a team point for that round. 4) After all the match rounds have been played (either 4 or 5 depending on the match format your division is using), the "points total for each round" are added together to arrive at total overall points for all the rounds played. Write that number in the appropriate boxes. 5) In summary each match is played for five (5) team points. 6) In the event that there is a tie of team points with handicap at the end of the 5 games the tie for that round will be broken by the team with the most wins that round. Example Team A scores 35 points and Team B scores 32 points plus their 3 point handicap equaling 35 points. Team B won 3 of the five games played, therefore Team B is the winner of that round and will receive 1 point for that round. Section 15.7 OPEN PLAYER: (Mens Division ONLY) * "Open player" is defined as a player whose name is not on the roster but allowed to play in the event a Forfeit is inevitable. * The following pertains to an open sub. * The handicap for a open sub to be used that night is ten (10). * The open sub will be listed first on the roster with the designation of "O" next to their name and the captain of the other team will be notified of the use of this rule. * The cost of the open player is (ten) $10.00 in addition to the dues. * The "open player" or that specifically named player can only be used by that team two times. * The team may add the open player according to Rule C 5 Article XVI: COLLECTION AND ALLOCATION OF LEAGUE FUNDS Men's League INCOME: - All players must pay an annual $5.00 membership fee to become a member of the NWFEBA - Each team must pay a sponsor fee of $100.00 per league season - Each league member playing in a match will pay $5.00/match or $25.00/team per night. This is due each week and is to be taken to one of the drop off points by 6:00 pm Friday the day following play. - Each team will be responsible for payment of all players in the event all are not present. Women's League INCOME: - All players must pay an annual $5.00 membership fee to become a member of the NWFEBA -Each team must pay a sponsor fee of $150.00 per league season or Seventy-five ($75.00) dollars per half. Mixed Doubles INCOME - Each team must pay a sponsor fee of $60.00 per league season. Thirty ($30.00) dollars per half - All players must pay an annual $5.00 membership fee to become a member of the NWFEBA The membership dues is paid one time per member per season. EXPENSES: * Each League will be self supporting in it's ability to pay it's expenses. * The following are to be considered primary expenses and will be paid for by the sums of monies of both the membership fees and the sponsor fees. - Internet fees - Secretary Compensation -Treasurer Compensation - Award ceremony (Sponsor fee + Membership Fees) - League Supplies (primarily paper, copy cost, printing, (B/R & 8Brk pins) - Prize money: - point money paid to each player, based on their total points, any excess point money due the team for subs, or players who have dropped out, will be paid to the team. - Womens league Trophies ( Team and Individuals) - Mixed Doubles Trophy Check Policy Make all checks payable to "Northwest Florida 8-Ball Asscociation."or "NWFEBA" All returned checks are subject to a $30.00 returned check fee. The amount of the check plus the returned check fee are due immediately and all points for that team will be held until this is resolved. If a 2nd occurrence happens on the same team, that team will no longer be able to write checks. Team Dropouts If a team drops out of a league session, that team will forfeit all monies paid to the league and all prize money that has been earned by that team. Awards and Prize Money Awards will be given to the 1st place team and the top shooter (most points earned) for both male and female players. Additional awards may be given out based on the number of teams and players. This will be determined at the end of the each league session, as teams may drop out or other situations may arise. Prize money is paid out in the same fashion, with the exception that every team gets money paid back. The typical payback is somewhere around 15 cents ($0.15) per point the team has earned, with the top team(s) and top shooters (male & female) getting additional money. Again, this is all determined at the end of the league session. Any team that owes money, the amount they owe will be deducted from their prize money (this amount should be zero for all teams). Drop off and Pick up Policy Drop-off location: To be determined each season by the BOD and communicated prior to each season by the secretary to the captains. Completion of Match Data At the end of the match, it is the home teams captain's responsibility to make sure that the score sheet has been completed and compared by both teams. Any monies, memberships, sponsorships or nightly dues need to be collected. Men's League Fill out the front of the league envelope. Date, Amount Enclosed, Home Team, and Visiting Team must be completed. Place the white score sheet, money and any notes or questions in the envelope and seal the envelope. It is recommended that a representative for both teams verify that these items were placed in the envelope and sealed. Both parties should sign across the edge of the seal on the back of the envelope. Leave the completed and sealed envelope with the bartender or other authorized representative of the drop off facility. Drop off times for: Men's League 6:00 pm Friday Women's League 6:00 pm Wednesday Mixed Doubles League 6:00 pm Tuesday By-Law Changes The Rules, By-Laws, and Policies & Procedures may be amended, changed, altered, repealed, corrected, or made additions to at the beginning of each Membership meeting to be held in Aug of each year, or unless just cause can be shown by a simple majority vote at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors. Changes will be made to the above and placed on the internet at the Leagues Website location with the date indicated. Team Dues and Sponsor Fees 1st week of play: Rosters & sponsors fees ($50.00) Weekly Team fees ($25.00) ?? ?? ?? ?? Northwest Florida 8 Ball Association Bylaws Completely Amended and passed August 2005 14