What is Western BCA?

Western BCA (Western BCA Pool Players Association) is an Oregon non-profit regional organization dedicated to sanctioning, promoting, and organizing cue sports across the Pacific Northwest and Western United States. We sanction local leagues (view our complete directory of Sanctioned Leagues) and host premier regional championship tournaments.

How do I become a Western BCA member?

You become a member by joining and playing in a Western BCA-sanctioned league in your local area. Your local league operator handles your registration and submits your sanction fees to the association.

What are the benefits of a Western BCA membership?

• Tournament Eligibility: Compete in Western BCA Regional Championships (Singles, Scotch Doubles, and Teams).
• Official Rating: Maintain an established, internationally recognized rating through FargoRate.

Can I start my own league?

Yes! For step-by-step guidance and requirements, review our guides on Starting a League and Sanctioning a League. Please keep in mind that you must ensure your league will not infringe on any existing sanctioned Western BCA league.

How many weeks of league play do I need to qualify for tournaments?

To qualify for Western BCA Regional Championship events:

• Standard Requirement: You must play a minimum of 8 weeks in a single league session in the calendar year within a sanctioned division.
• Cutoff Date: The cutoff date to complete your 8 weeks of play is the close of registration for the event.
• Exemptions & Medical Exemptions: If you have not met the 8-week requirement due to medical reasons or other circumstances by the cutoff, your League Operator can request an exemption on your behalf by emailing tr@westernbca.org.
• Verification: Always confirm specific qualifying dates and match cutoffs with your local League Operator prior to registering.

Can I play in multiple leagues or divisions?

Yes. You may play in multiple divisions or nights across different sanctioned leagues. However, match credits do not combine across unrelated divisions to meet eligibility minimums.

What major tournaments does Western BCA host?

Western BCA hosts two premier regional championships annually (traditionally held at venues such as the Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, Oregon):

1. Annual 8-Ball Championships (Singles, Scotch Doubles, and Team divisions)
2. Annual 9-Ball Championships (Singles, Scotch Doubles, and Team divisions)

Can I enter more than one division at the tournament?

You can only register to play in one Scotch Doubles event, one Singles event, and one Team event per championship tournament.

How much does it cost to enter?

All tournament pricing, division entry fees, and green fees can be found on the official event Player Information Sheet, which is located on the Western BCA website.

When does tournament registration open?

Registration typically opens on the following schedule (subject to change):

• 8-Ball Championships: Usually opens on January 1st.
• 9-Ball Championships: Usually opens on the first Monday in August.

When does tournament registration close?

Registration typically closes on the following timeline (subject to change):

• 8-Ball Championships: Usually closes in mid-February.
• 9-Ball Championships: Usually closes in mid-September.

How do I register for a Western BCA tournament?

• Online Registration Only: The only way to enter is via the online entry form on our website. You can register directly through the Player’s Dashboard.
• No On-Site Registration: All entries and fees must be submitted online prior to the stated registration deadline. There is no on-site entry for any tournament division (with the sole exception of mini tournaments, which sign up on-site).

Why can’t I find my Scotch Doubles partner or teammate in the player list when registering?

• If your partner or teammate does not appear in the player list during online registration, they most likely need to create an account on the Player’s Dashboard first. Once their account is set up and linked to their membership record, they will appear in the system search so you can add them to your roster.
• If you believe your Scotch Doubles partner or teammate already has an active player account, please send an email to support@westernbca.org for assistance.

Where can I search for teammates by FargoRate?

We currently do not have a built-in search-by-FargoRate feature on the website; however, this is something we are actively working on for the future.

A current workaround is:

1. Filter and search for players within your desired rating range directly in the FargoRate app.
2. Once you find a potential partner or teammate, check their Western BCA / CSI qualification status using the CSI Membership Lookup.

Will there be Fun Day events?

Yes, there will be Fun Day events! Sign-ups will be available on the Player’s Dashboard.

How much does Fun Day cost to enter?

Fun Day entry is $20 per player. Singles events are $20, and Scotch Doubles events are $40 per team.

When does Fun Day registration open?

Fun Day registration opens near the closing of early tournament registration. We are still working to find the ideal schedule and mix for opening and closing Fun Day entries.

When does Fun Day registration close?

For now, Fun Day registration closes at the same time main event registration closes.

Is there a waitlist or refund policy for Fun Day?

No. There are no waitlists, no refunds, and no filling empty spots for Fun Day events.

Are there Second Chance tournaments?

Yes, single-elimination Second Chance tournaments will be offered across all events (Singles, Scotch Doubles, and Teams) for players eliminated from the main brackets prior to the payout rounds.

• Roster Requirement: In Scotch Doubles and Team events, you must play with the exact same players from your original roster. You cannot use a random substitute.
• Sign-Ups: Registration is cash only, takes place in person at the BadBoys podium, and normally close a few hours after the last team not in the money has been eliminated.

How do I check my FargoRate rating?

You can look up your rating, robustness, and match statistics online at FargoRate or by using the official FargoRate Player app on your mobile device (available on iOS and Android). Players are encouraged to download and check the app before registering to verify their current rating.

When are team and Scotch Doubles FargoRate ratings locked in?

FargoRate ratings are locked in at sign-up. Players are responsible for ensuring their own FargoRate and their team’s FargoRate ratings are accurate and current at the time of registration.

How are Singles divisions structured?

Western BCA Singles events are split into two primary categories based on FargoRate:

• Elite Singles: Open to all players with an established FargoRate of 600 and above (players rated under 600 may also elect to play up into Elite).
• Divisional Singles: For players with a FargoRate of 599 and below. The field is sorted by FargoRate and divided into roughly equal-sized brackets spanning tight 50 to 75-point FargoRate spreads. These divisional brackets are named by tier from top to bottom (e.g., Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, Iron, etc.) so everyone competes against peers of closely matched skill.

How are Team and Scotch Doubles divisions determined?

• Rating Caps: Both Team and Scotch Doubles events utilize total composite FargoRate rating caps to group rosters into competitive tiers.
• Scotch Doubles: Normally structured into 5 divisions based on combined rating caps.
• Teams: Normally structured into 4 divisions based on total team rating caps.
• Team Roster Sizes:
  • 8-Ball Teams: 4 players per team.
  • 9-Ball Teams: 3 players per team.

What if I have an unestablished FargoRate?

If you have a low robustness (fewer than 200 games recorded in FargoRate):

• Tournament officials and your League Operator will review your local league statistics and past competitive record to assign an appropriate starter rating for bracket placement.
• League Requirement: The captain must be from the same league as any unestablished player on their team, and if one player is unestablished in a Scotch Doubles pair, both players must be from the same league. This is to help ensure proper placement and accountability.

What if I feel my FargoRate is lower than it should be?

If you believe your FargoRate does not accurately reflect your true skill level (or is lower than it should be), please inform a tournament official at the podium prior to competition so your rating and bracket placement can be reviewed.

Are there 24-hour practice tables available?

No, there will not be any 24-hour practice tables. Practice is available from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM and after all matches have completed for the day, with table priority always going to players with scheduled matches on that table. You may also play on any available open table during designated daily open play hours.

Who is running mini tournaments?

Yes, BadBoys will be running 8-player single-elimination minis as tables become available. The cost is $20 per mini, and sign-ups take place on-site at the BadBoys podium.

Where can I watch live streaming and featured tables?

• EvoSports will be set up on Tables 1 through 8.
• On The Wire will be streaming featured matches on Tables 9 and 10.

Are cue repair and cue storage services available?

• Cue Repair: Yes, cue repair vendors will be on-site so you can have your cue worked on throughout the event.
• Cue Storage: Yes, secure on-site cue storage is available by Player’s Club Limited.

What other vendors will be on site?

We have a wide variety of vendors on-site throughout the event, including:

• Cue supply and accessory vendors
• Billiard-related apparel and clothing companies
• Custom cue makers
• Artwork and specialty merchandise
• Specialty food vendors

Where is the lost and found?

Please visit the Western BCA Podium for all lost and found inquiries or to turn in found items.

What do I do if I have a complaint?

Please visit the Western BCA Podium to speak with an official. Remember that Western BCA is run by volunteers, so please remain patient and respectful. We completely understand that situations can be frustrating, but it is almost certainly not the fault of the individual volunteer assisting you.

Is marijuana allowed on property?

No. Marijuana is strictly prohibited on casino and tournament premises. It is a bannable offense by the casino: no casino entrance, no tournament.

What is the policy on food and alcohol?

• Outside Food and Drinks: No outside food or beverages are permitted inside the tournament room.
• Alcohol: Yes, alcohol service begins daily at 8:00 AM inside the main tournament room. Please drink responsibly.
• Concessions: Yes, food concessions will be open and available daily starting at 8:00 AM.

Is the dress code enforced at all times?

Yes, there is an official dress code and it will be strictly enforced at all times, with the sole exception of Fun Day. Please review the complete requirements in the official Western BCA Dress Code Policy.

What is the Winner’s Circle card swipe and why is it important?

You can get a Winner’s Circle card at the cashier cage. Please be sure to get one and swipe it at the kiosk inside the tournament room every single day! Doing so directly supports Western BCA’s casino sponsorship funding and automatically enters you for a chance to win prizes.

What if I use a wheelchair or need special assistance / end table accommodation?

If you use a wheelchair, walker, or have physical mobility or medical needs that require being placed on an end table or accessible area:

• Under Player Profile: There is a selectable button located under the Player Profile section on the Player’s Dashboard to indicate that you require special assistance.
• In Advance via Email: You may also email tr@westernbca.org before the tournament so your table assignments can be properly configured in the scheduling software.
• On-Site: Notify the tournament registrar at her booth or the Western BCA Podium upon arrival so tournament directors can assist with match accommodations.

Where can I find the brackets?

All live tournament brackets, match assignments, and divisions can be viewed online at Bracket Beast.

When will the brackets be posted?

• Standard Divisions: Brackets are usually posted online approximately 1 week before the start of Scotch Doubles, Singles, and Team events, respectively.
• Elite Divisions: Please note that brackets for Elite Scotch Doubles and Elite Singles will not be released until after the official players meeting.

When is my first match?

You can look up your specific match time, table assignment, and upcoming schedule directly on Bracket Beast by searching for your name or team.

Do I need to check my team in, and where do I do that?

• No Changes: Teams with no changes to their roster since registration closed do not need to check in.
• Last-Minute Changes: Teams that have last-minute roster changes must check in with the tournament registrar at her booth located at the end of the tournament room.

Where do I pick up my score sheet?

Pick up your match score sheet at the end of the BadBoys podium.

Where do I turn in my score sheet?

Turn in your completed score sheet at the BadBoys podium (remember to circle the winner!).

What do I do if my name is misspelled or wrong on the score sheet?

Make the correction directly on the score sheet and ensure you notify the BadBoys podium staff when turning it in so they can update the system.

What is the policy on carrying assembled cues?

Please do not walk around the room with fully assembled cues across your back or over your shoulder. This is a serious safety hazard in tight tournament aisles and around active tables. Break down your cues or carry them upright and close to your body when moving through the room.

Schedules, Brackets & Match Tracking

• Digital Brackets: Brackets and match schedules run electronically via Bracket Beast and are accessible live on mobile devices.
• Match Delay Penalties:
  • 0:00 to 4:59 min late: Official warning.
  • 5:00 to 9:59 min late: 1-game penalty awarded to opponent.
  • 10:00 to 14:59 min late: 2-game penalty awarded to opponent.
  • 15:00 min late: Loss of match by forfeit.

What are the racking rules?

• 8-Ball and 10-Ball: Rack your own.
• 9-Ball Events: Opponent rack.

What happens if a match reaches the time limit? (End of Match Procedure)

To keep tournaments on schedule across all divisions (Singles, Scotch Doubles, and Teams), matches reaching their time limit follow official End of Match (EOM) rules:

• 10-Minute Mark: No new racks may begin if 10 minutes or less remain in the scheduled match window. Players complete only the game(s) currently in progress.
• Undecided Matches & Shootout: If the match remains undecided after completing the active rack, an official records the current score and oversees an official Spot Shot Shootout to determine the remaining game points needed to win the match. Shootout games are not reported to FargoRate.
• Shootout Format:
  • Players lag or flip a coin to choose the shooting order or starting side of the table (options reverse after each attempt).
  • Shooters compete in a best-of-3 spot shot round to award a scorecard game win. If tied after 3 shots, play advances to sudden death (make vs. miss).
  • Scotch Doubles partners alternate every attempt; team event lineups follow regular match rotation.
• Shot Rules & 30-Second Clock: A strict 30-second shot clock applies with no extensions. The object ball is placed on the foot spot and must be cut directly into the diagonally opposite bottom corner pocket without banking, kicking, or scratching.

For complete diagram details and full rules, consult the official End of Match Procedures Document.

Can I bring my children to the event? (Junior & Minor Policy)

• Playing Requirement: Yes, but they must be actively playing in the event. Minors who are not participating in tournament competition are not permitted in the tournament room.
• Age Declaration: Junior players must declare their age by emailing tr@westernbca.org and must wear the official event wristband at all times.
• Casino Restrictions: Juniors must remain strictly within tournament ballroom areas and are barred from casino gaming floors.

Rules, Referees & Pace of Play

• Official Rules: All events are governed by official CSI Rules for 8-Ball, 9-Ball, and 10-Ball (except racking procedures).
• Calling a Referee: Matches are self-officiated. To summon an official for a close shot or dispute, stand in the middle of the pool tables and raise your cue. The referee’s visual ruling is final.
• Shot Clock: A 45-second shot clock may be placed on both players if a match causes significant schedule delays.
• Electronics: Headphones, earbuds, and Bluetooth headsets are strictly prohibited during match play.

How do I get my winnings? (Payouts & Tax Information)

• Payout Room: Go to the payouts room where tournament staff will process your payment.
• Required Documentation: Make sure to bring the bottom portion of the score sheet from BadBoys.
• ID & Tax Info: Government-issued photo ID and tax identification (SSN/ITIN) are required before funds are disbursed.
• Unclaimed Funds: Unclaimed prize funds remain valid for up to 1 year following the event.

Why do you need a tax ID number to pay me?

Western BCA reports all tournament winnings to the IRS. Because of federal reporting requirements, players must provide a valid Tax Identification Number (SSN or ITIN) before any prize payout can be issued.

Important Updates & Tournament Pace

• Information Subject to Change: Please keep in mind that all event information and schedules are subject to change.
• On-Time Schedule: Yes, we are actively working hard to keep this tournament running on schedule and on time!
• Updated End of Match Procedures: Yes, the end of match procedures have changed since the last event. Please familiarize yourself with the current format by reviewing the End of Match Procedures Document. Thank you to everyone who took the survey (we truly appreciate your input!).

Volunteering & Getting Involved

• We Are Volunteer-Run: Western BCA is a volunteer-based organization. If you would like to volunteer and help support our events, please contact us at support@westernbca.org.
• Share Your Input: Please bring your suggestions, feedback, and opinions directly to your Player Representatives and League Operators. You can view the full directory on our Voting Members Page.
• Become a Player Rep: For anyone looking to get more involved with the association, becoming a Player Representative is a fantastic starting point. Speak with your local League Operator to learn more!