Accu-Stats announces new “Arena Rules”

After 25 years of taping pro matches, I have seen more great matches than just about anybody.  I have also suffered through many more.  At the Simonis Arena in Clifton, New Jersey, Accu-Stats will introduce a set of rules that I feel will make the game of 9-ball more interesting for the viewer, especially in an exhibition or challenge match scenario.  I hope the competitors feel the same way.  This is in no way aiming to replace the rules in tournament play now, but when at the Simonis Arena at our studio in Clifton, NJ, I will try to entertain the viewing public with a more engaging session of 9-Ball. 

Feel free to comment by emailing me, Pat Fleming, at accu-stats@accu-stats.com.  

ARENA RULES

(for 9-Ball)


*  The player who is at the table after the break shot must push out or force his opponent push out.  (This assures that both players play each rack.  Each player begins on a near equal par.) After a scratch on the break, the incoming player will have "ball in hand" anywhere on the table.

*  If a player cannot "see" the lowest numbered ball when he begins his turn, he may push out (unless it is the result of a push-out).  (The game is lacking great shots.  A player will think twice before playing a snooker knowing that he will be looking at a push out.  He may shoot that tough shot which may now yield better results.  It also eliminates unforeseen snookers that the incoming player would have to suffer.)

*  In a race to eleven, when the score is tied at seven, eight, nine, or ten, the next rack will determine the winner.  (The most exciting game by far for viewers is when the match is tied with one deciding game left.  By the time both players are tied at seven or later, they both shot every game, thus having enough chances by then to decide a winner.  The result is more hill-hill matches for the viewers.)

*  When the 9-ball is the last ball on the table and a player scratches in the pocket while playing the 9-ball, the 9-ball is spotted, and his opponent has ball in hand behind the headstring.  (Where has the spot shot gone?  It's back!  It's more entertaining for the viewer to watch another "sweat shot" than to rack them up.)

*  No call shot.  (There are too many two-way shots that are creative and brilliant.)

*  Jump cues and extensions are not allowed.  (Tradition has its place here.  The mechanical bridge can be used.)

*  The "Magic Rack" will be used.  (It is PAINFUL for the viewers to watch players rack balls for minutes.  The Magic Rack takes seconds.)

*  45 second shot clock for first shot.  30 second shot clock in between shots.  Three shot clocks will be displayed in the arena.  (Sorry, but the game is too boring for the viewer.  How long does it take for a complete football team to prepare for the next play?)