Table Etiquette - frequently updated

At some point, you’ll notice—if you haven’t already—that having clear rules keeps the game fair and enjoyable for everyone, including onlookers. Good etiquette is essential as you start "seeing" the game on a deeper level. Keep it friendly, even in the face of fierce competition.

• A little luck: It is not required to call any of your shots.  Skill and strategy will win the day. The better you are the luckier you get.

• Respect On and Off the Board: Earn the respect of your peers not just by how you play but also by how you carry yourself.

• Keep Your Distance: Stay at least 3 feet away from the table if you’re not playing. Avoid lining up shots or offering advice, as you may unintentionally give away strategies.
• Be Considerate: Stay out of the way of active players who may need to move around the table freely.

• Address Before Play: Decide before the game how to handle a brush (ball movement caused during or prior to a shot). Options include:
  • Losing your turn.
  • Allowing grace by placing the ball in an approximate location and continuing play.
  • Tournament play in a three round match may allow 3 brushes per match. After that lose your addressed ball. 
• After the Shot: If a brush occurs after the shot, you may remove the chosen ball for the shot while leaving all others as they are.
• Intentional Brushes: Any intentional brushing should result in an immediate end to the game and round.
• Avoid brushes or confusion by calling your Mark before each shot.  
• It happens from time to time. 

• No Leaning: Do not lean directly on the playing surface or against the table.
• Avoid Quakes: Never quake the table. If a ball falls due to a quake, return it to its original position.

• Time Limit: Ball placements can get tricky, consider a time limit like 10 seconds prior to the start of the game to keep from delaying play. If the time limit is reached the remaining balls should be placed in the return. 

• Avoid Risky Shots: Ideally, avoid taking shots that could cause a brush. If a shot seems inaccessible, consider it an opportunity to open up other possibilities on the board.

• End with a Handshake: Conclude every match with a handshake to show respect.
• Respect Your Opponent’s Turn: Do not talk to or distract your opponent while they are attempting a shot.

• Stay Out of the Line of Shot: Avoid standing in your opponent’s line of sight. If you must be nearby, stand very still. You’ll appreciate the same courtesy.

• Establish Rules Before Play: Discuss how to handle a tweak (an undesired or wimpy shot) before the game begins. A little grace goes a long way—you may want the same consideration, especially in recreational play.

• Not over the table