HOW OUR YOUTH TEAMS WORK
U.S. Youth Billiards utilizes a structure, and format that is purpose-built to harness, and maximize the potential in young cue sports athletes. Alongside our partners, and supporters, we are creating a network of Nationally competitive teams led by dedicated mentors, and coaches.
All team members receive instruction, and guidance from qualified coaches, that is intended to improve their skills, and instill in them core values, and a spirit of sportsmanship. Players become part of a family, and learn they can depend on one another, and achieve success together.
Teams consists of 6 players, and 2 alternates, and must have at least 1 male, and 1 female member. Teams are categorized into 4 divisions based on age (ages 6-8, 9-11, 12-14, and 15-17). Players too young, or not ready to join a competitive team are encouraged to join the prep team program.
Match Scoring: Each player plays four racks of 15-Ball generating a team cumulative score (total balls pocketed). Highest ball count = 2 team points. Each player then plays two singles sets and one Scotch Doubles set of 9-Ball (race to 3). Each set win = 1 team point. Maximum team points = 17. All matches will be played regardless of score.
Season Format: U.S.Y.B. is divided into 3 distinct levels (State, Regional, and National). Teams will play 2 matches (home and away) against each of the other teams in their State. State Champions will compete against other State champions in their Conference (13 conferences Nationwide). Conference champions will then compete in a National Championship.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
All players will be held to the highest standards of sportsmanship, and will be expected to exude the values that are the foundation of U.S. Youth Billiards. This includes being respectful, gracious, engaging in fair play, and setting a positive example for others. Good conduct is a cornerstone of the U.S. Youth Billiards organization, and must be exercised at all times, and under all circumstances. After all, our players are the face of our organization, and as such, should represent the organization with pride, and in a manner that will cast it in a positive light, and have a positive influence on others.
DRESS CODE
In order to maintain a level of uniformity, cohesion, and unity, as well as organizational recognition, all competition team members will be required to adhere to a dress code consisting of black slacks with belt, team jerseys, comfortable and clean shoes (tennis shoes/sneakers are permitted, but please have them be presentable). No specific uniform is required for Prep Team players. Uniforms will be ordered from Ultimate Team Gear.
EQUIPMENT
Each player on competition teams will be provided a new cue, and case. Below is an example (example only, actual cue, and case design may vary). If possible, equipment will be engraved/marked with the player’s name to identify the owner.
STATISTICS AND RECORD KEEPING
Records of individual, and team scores, and standings will be kept, and statistically analyzed by U.S. Youth Billiards. Those statistics will be made available on our website for public consumption.
CONFERENCE MAP
SEASON AND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
One season per calendar year will be played, beginning with State level matches, and Championships, followed by Conference matches, and Championships, and commencing with a National Championship tournament that will be held at the birthplace, and home of U.S. Youth Billiards, Chalky’s, in Carbondale, IL. Each division (age group) will follow the same format, and have their own National Championship competition at the same location, and time as all other divisions. Seasons will be scheduled to least interfere with school, and other youth sports. Training, instruction, and practices will continue year-round. The National Championship format will be a single elimination tournament.
READY TO JOIN A TEAM?
WANT TO START YOUR OWN TEAM?
