8 Ball Umpire

General
At the commencement of each fixture you will be issued with a timer, a ball marker. Return these to the adjudicator at the end of the match.
There is a jigger and a spider under each table. Check that these are in place before and after each frame so that time-outs to access a rest are not be required.
For tight snookers where an extra cue ball or string is required, an adjudicator must be called.
If an adjudicator is required, do not leave the table. If you cannot catch the attention of an adjudicator, ask someone to get one for you.

Team Fixtures
2 tables – 1 umpire per table.
Team managers record results.
Each team has a minimum of 5 minutes practice before the match commences. In some cases practice times will vary, example  being 10 minutes. The adjudicator will call the practices.
The adjudicator will instruct the umpires take control of the tables at the end of the second team’s practice. You should have 5 minutes to brush the table and rack the balls and clean the cue ball.
The adjudicator will call time running for the first match. If the table is not ready, call time running once the table is ready.
Adjudicator calls
‘Home Team first 5 minutes practice’ followed by
‘Please change over, Away Team 5 minutes pratice’ followed by
‘Umpires please table control of the table’
During each round, as each frame is completed:
rack the balls;
clean the cue ball and place it against the top ‘baulk’ cushion (or hand it the player);
call time running.
At the end of the last frame of each round:
start one timer for 5 minutes;
brush the table;
rack the balls;
retain possession of the cue ball;
after five minutes, clean the cue ball and place it against the top ‘baulk’ cushion
call time running for both tables.
At the end of the match:
brush the table;
rack the balls & clean the cue ball;
return the timer and ball marker the adjudicator.

General
At the commencement of each match, you will be issued with a timer, a ball marker and (for singles matches only) a spare cue ball. Return these to the adjudicator at the end of the match.
There is a jigger and a spider under each table. Check that these are in place before and after each frame so that time-outs to access a rest are not be required.
For tight snookers where an extra cue ball or string is required, an adjudicator must be called.
If an adjudicator is required, do not leave the table. If you cannot catch the attention of an adjudicator, ask someone to get one for you.

Singles Events
Score Sheets are issued by the adjudicator, mark the break sequence, complete the score sheet in full.
The first break is determined by lag. Subsequent breaks alternate.
Each player has a 5 minutes practice. The adjudicator will call and time the practice for the first matches of the session. You must time practice for subsequent matches.
At the end of the second players practice:
brush the table;
rack the balls;
hand each player a cue ball for the lag.
After the lag, clean one cue ball and place it against the top ‘baulk’ cushion (or hand it the breaking player, then call time running.
At the end of each frame:
record the result;
rack the balls;
announce the score;
clean the cue ball and place it against the top cushion (or hand it the breaking player);
call time running.
At the end of the match:
announce the result;
have each player sign the score sheet;
brush the table;
rack the balls and clean the cue ball;
return the timer, spare cue ball, ball marker and score sheet the adjudicator.

Lagging for the Break
Both players start with cue ball in baulk (umpires will be issued a spare cue ball).
Players play the cue ball down the table to rebound off the bottom ‘rack’ cushion back towards baulk.
Both cue balls must be played before the first ball reaches the bottom cushion or the lag is replayed.
The cue ball must not touch any of the side cushions, but may hit the top ‘baulk’ cushion.
The winner is the player who’s cue ball is closest the top ‘baulk’ cushion

1.    Have a folder containing complete WEPF/AEBF Playing rules [A4 size – makes referring to
    it easier].
2.    Have an enlarged A4 copy of the Flow Chart.  Is advisable to have a few spares, one
    can be issued to the association/league to copy for their members.
3.    Have copy of Interpretations on Playing Rules.
4.    As always, it’s best to start at the beginning, and run through the entire Rules, paying
    particular attention to the following:- [not necessarily shown in order].
    a]   The Break and the various situations ie. Black Ball potted on the Break;
          Legal Break but Cue Ball potted;   Deciding colours off the Break.
    b]   Playing from Baulk – requirements – ball ‘in’ Baulk, not on the line; Positioning
          by the Umpire to ensure they can see this, without making it obvious to the player.
    c]   Deciding Colours – after the Break.
    d]   What constitutes a Legal Shot [when in doubt, always refer back to this rule].
    e]   Timing, when it starts and finishes, player requirements after final shot of that visit.
     f]   Balls off Table, what happens next and how.
    g]   Determining a Total Snooker – what to look for [ie. straight line shot, must be able
           to hit some part of own ball.  Not just if a part of it can be seen].
    h]   Determining a Foul Snooker / Foul Jaw Snooker – again, what to look for [other balls
          of the player], cushions are deemed not to exist in determining a Foul Snooker.
    i]   Touching Ball – ie. Cue Ball resting against a Ball On [player’s own ball].  Explain the
                options open to the player and what umpire call should be when a touching ball occurs.
    j]   Balls Falling without being Hit – Rule T explain in detail.
    k]   Serious Fouls and why, although the penalty is 2 visits, they are different to the Serious
          Standard Fouls.
    l]   Calling Procedures – remember to stress this area, these ‘calls’ are part of the Rules
         and should make accordingly – near enough is not good enough!
    m]  Rule X, particularly in relation to double umpiring.  Both are umpires, if they see a foul
          they call it, not wait to see if the other umpire does it.   Does it really matter if you both
                 call the same foul.    Shows the players, you are both ‘on the ball’ and are aware, at all
          times, what is happening on the table.  Cuts down on player querying calls too.

Preparation, as in all things, is vital to conducting successful examinations, regardless of numbers.
1.    Your examination papers [the part containing the questions for the candidate], should
    be presented properly and be able to be re-used many, many times.
    To achieve this I advise the following:-
    Place [back to back] each set of pages in a plastic protective sleeves, then into a clear front
    display folder [the cheap variety].
    On the outside side of the display folder clearly mark the number of that examination set.
    [best done 1 of 10 / 2 of 10 or whatever the number of examinations sets you have.
I found it handy to have at least 2 sets of display folders in different colours red / blue.
This way the Candidate often thought there were 2 different exam papers and it was
useless cheating off the person sitting next to them.  Slipped inside the front cover should be the Candidates Answer Sheet [the one they write on].
Have another qualified umpire [maybe a “C” grade, looking to go further] along with you.   They are then learning how things should be done and will be able to assist you in the ‘marking’ of the completed examinations.
2.    You should also have an Attendance Sheet, which lists the Candidates Name, what league
    /area they are from and the number of the examination set you have given them.
This is vital, allowing you to check that all examination folders are returned to you along
with the Candidates Answer Sheet.   Never let an examination folder or answer sheet
leave the room except with you.
3.    Have plenty of pens [working] with you – a kid’s pencil case is ideal.
    You, as examiner should have a red biro for marking purposes.
    You also will have a timer which you will set at 1 hour, after you have given them time
    to fill out their name and details.
4.    Ready, set go.    Remind them that they are only to write on the Answer Sheet.
Occasionally you will have a candidate who asks questions [be careful you do not disturb others, or inadvertently give away the answer].
    Give them a warning about 15 minutes, before the hour is up.   Quite a few will not need
    the required hour, but there will be those who do.   Lack of literacy can be a problem.
5.    As the candidates finish their paper, they should return the folder and answer sheet to you.
You, or your off-sider should commence to ‘mark the answer sheet’ in red biro.
A tip – only mark those answers that they gave incorrectly – inserting what should have
been the correct answer alongside.
On completion of the ‘marking’, call the person back to you.   Tell them either they failed
or passed [congratulating a pass].  Send them ‘off to the side’ with folder and answer sheet
so they can assess where they went wrong [sometimes simple as not reading the question
correctly].   This way even if they missed out, they are still learning how and why.
Just passing and/or failing is not the be all and end all, of the process.
Advise them, if they still have a problem, to come back to you so you can further explain.
Remind them they cannot take any paperwork relating to the examination away.
6.    38 – 44 is a “D” grade accreditation.     45 – 50 is a “C” grade theory accreditation [some
    will be happy with that and not wish to ‘go further’, others will wish to try out for their “C”
    grade accreditation.  If this is the case, advise [and follow up] that you will contact them
    regarding when / where you will next be conducting “C” grade practical testing.
    I.e.   Finals,  State Title Try Outs, major tournament etc. etc.
7.    Check you have all your relevant paperwork.   Pack up and go home, hopefully with
some new accreditations.

World Eight Ball Pool Rules Accreditation
Categories of Classification:

There shall be four categories of accreditation:

• Level 3 – A Grade – National Umpire Accreditation Level.
  Level 2 – B Grade – State Umpire Accreditation Level.
  Level 1 – C Grade – Regional Umpire Accreditation Level.
  Level 0 – D Grade – League Umpire Accreditation Level.

EXAMINERS.
Appointed by AEBF from the ranks of “A” or senior “B” grade (9) Umpires who have qualified in Eight ball, on recommendation by the NRUC. Examiners are appointed on a “needs only” basis and function under the direction of the SRUC

It is further recommended that:-
a) Information package be given to prospective candidates or graded umpires.
b) Each SRUC Director shall supply to the NRUC Director a list of existing Umpires, giving such details as name, background experience, who may be placed on a priority list for “B” grade testing.
c) We the NRUC recommend, on successful completion of the examination the SRUC Director will forward to the NRUC Director an appropriate list of achievers and their status (grading).

A Umpire’s ID card shall be issued by the AEBF.
Such Certificate, signed by the NRUC Director and emailed to the SRUC Director/Examiner.
d) The NRUC Director shall keep a register of all graded umpires throughout Australia. (excel)
e) The SRUC Director shall keep a register of all their own state Umpires. (excel)

STANDARDS:
a) Head Adjudication Panel at a National Championships, must have a minimum of “B” grade status.
b) Umpires at National Championships, must have a minimum of “C” grade status.
(i) if enough “C” grade are not available, “D” grade may be used in conjunction with a higher grade
c) International events. Minimum “B” grade is preferable, but “C” grade can be used in conjunction with a higher grade.
d) For State events, level shall be left to the SRUC.

World Eight Ball Pool Rules Accreditation

 ‘D’ GRADE UMPIRE’S

Prerequisite:
Working with Children Check
Anyone who works face-to-face with children in a paid, self-employed or voluntary capacity, must have a Working With Children Check (WWCC) clearance, unless they qualify for an exemption.

Overview;
Appointed by an affiliate on recommendation by its S.R.U.C. after examination. Awarded to candidates who demonstrate a fair knowledge of the rules but lack the qualities or experience for higher grading.

Accreditation;
The AEBF accreditation acknowledges that the holder is recognised as an active Eight Ball Umpire

Accreditation Period;
The accreditation period will be four years

Re-Accreditation
To renew accreditation applicants have to upgrade their qualifications or provide evidence that they have undertaken required activities as well as being active during at least 2 of the 4 years of their accreditation.

Accreditation upgrade:
For an upgrade between “D” and “C” grade, the lapse of time as decided by the SRUC Director.

 ‘C’ GRADE UMPIRE’S

Prerequisite:
Working with Children Check
Anyone who works face-to-face with children in a paid, self-employed or voluntary capacity, must have a Working With Children Check (WWCC) clearance, unless they qualify for an exemption.

Overview;
Appointed by an affiliate on recommendation by it’s SRUC after examination. Awarded to candidates who demonstrate a good knowledge of the rules.

Examination;
The “C” grade will require the National Umpire’s examination and practical exam.
Documented evidence “Practical Exam Report” is required to support their nomination.

Accreditation;
The AEBF accreditation acknowledges that the holder is recognised as an active Eight Ball Umpire

Accreditation Period;
The accreditation period will be four years.

Re-Accreditation
To renew accreditation applicants have to upgrade their qualifications or provide evidence that they have undertaken required activities as well as being active during at least 2 of the 4 years of their accreditation.

Accreditation upgrade:
May submit as candidate for “B” grade after two (2) years.
or a special exemption maybe granted after one (1) year. (Honorary “B” grade)

‘B’ GRADE UMPIRE’S

Prerequisite:
Working with Children Check
Anyone who works face-to-face with children in a paid, self-employed or voluntary capacity, must have a Working With Children Check (WWCC) clearance, unless they qualify for an exemption.

Overview;
Appointed by an affiliate on recommendation by its S.R.U.C. after examination. Awarded to candidates who demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the rules and qualities necessary to conduct matches of importance,
and have at least two years standing at “C” grade level.

Examination;
The “B” grade will require a more complex examination and practical test.
Documented evidence is required to support their nomination.

Accreditation;
The AEBF accreditation acknowledges that the holder is recognised as an active Eight Ball Umpire.

Accreditation Period;
The accreditation period will be four years.

Re-Accreditation
To renew accreditation applicants have to upgrade their qualifications or provide evidence that they have undertaken required activities as well as being active during at least 2 of the 4 years of their accreditation.

Accreditation upgrade:
May apply to NRUC for appointment to “A” Grade level after a period of 2 years.

Duties and Responsibilities:
May examine D and C Grade Umpire
Assisting A Grade Umpires

‘A’ GRADE UMPIRE’S

Prerequisite:
Working with Children Check
Anyone who works face-to-face with children in a paid, self-employed or voluntary capacity, must have a Working With Children Check (WWCC) clearance, unless they qualify for an exemption.

Overview;
Appointed by A.E.B.F. from the ranks of senior “B” grade Umpires, on recommendation by the NRUC. Awarded only for outstanding service and proven ability to conduct matches of importance.”

Examination;
The “A” grade will require a more complex examination and practical test.
Documented evidence is required to support their nomination.

Accreditation;
The AEBF accreditation acknowledges that the holder is recognised as an active Eight Ball Umpire

Accreditation Period;
The accreditation period will be four years.

Re-Accreditation
To renew accreditation applicants have to maintain their qualifications or provide evidence that they have undertaken required activities as well as being active during at least 2 of the 4 years of their accreditation.

Accreditation upgrade:
‘A’ GRADE EMERITUS
Appointed by the AEBF on recommendation by the NRUC. Awarded only to Umpires who have given distinguished service but who by reason of incapacity due to age, infirmity etc. are no longer able to officiate as Umpires.

‘A’ GRADE EMERITUS

Overview;
Appointed by A.E.B.F. on the recommendation by the N.R.U.C. Awarded only to Umpires who have given distinguished service but who by reason of incapacity due to age, infirmity etc, are no longer able to officiate as Umpires.

Examination;
N/A

Accreditation;
N/A

Accreditation Period;
Life

Re-Accreditation:
N/A

Accreditation upgrade:
N/A

George Thomas, South Australia