At the start of the 2007-8 season, the (then) league Chair, Steve Power, raised a point that more and more players seemed to be unaware of some very simple and very basic ‘unofficial rules’. The type of thing that isn’t quite big enough to warrant it’s own rule but contributes to the ambiance of the match evening itself.
We called this collection of ‘advice’ - the etiquette document. Within it you will find sensible advice such as ‘at the end of your frame, if you are the winner, offer to buy your opponent his chosen tipple’ and ‘don’t chalk your cue when your player is at the table’. Certainly not rocket science but definitely things that, more so than actual rules, lead to ill-feeling.
The League rules here are the definitive point from which decisions are made and able to be made. They are the definitive point of reference for all players and captains and can be freely quoted in any debate.
Contrary to what some may think, most rules - and our particularly - are there to be used to assist in the smooth running of our many matches and competitions. They provide a framework that is not only easy to understand but simple and effective to use.
The rules are exactly what they are - but it is also important to remember they are most definitely, what the membership have decided they want them to be. All the rules here have been voted in at an AGM by the members.
Often we see no reason for a rule but every one of ours is because enough of the members understood the history and reasoning behind it’s introduction. Often we disagree with a rule and so, here, the message is clear - if you don’t like them, write to the Secretary with your proposal and come to an AGM to see whether the members vote agrees with you. It’s dangerous - but it’s called ‘democracy’!
