Introduction to the Preston & District Pool League

 

The Preston & District Pool League (PDPL) is committed to fostering friendly competition, fair play, and a welcoming environment for teams across the local area.

We welcome team entries from venues located within a 10-mile radius of The PR1 postcode, specifically within the PR postal code district. This boundary keeps the league community-based and manageable, while encouraging a vibrant mix of teams and players.

 

Our Monday night league fixtures are designed to suit working schedules and promote consistent participation. Whether you're a seasoned team or a new venue looking to engage, the PDPL offers a structured yet enjoyable experience — backed by clear rules, supportive governance, and a proud tradition of amateur pool.

 

League Matches – Monday Nights

o   Fixtures are played home and away on Monday evenings

o   Matches consist of 1st set of 7 frames & a 2nd set of 4 frames.

o   Players may play once in each set!

o   Home venues traditionally provide food at the halfway point — a custom that brings teams together socially

All matches must be completed within licensing hours — any fixture continuing after 11:00pm requires landlord permission (Regulation 1d)

 

Team Tournaments - Monday Nights

League Cup & League Shield tournaments are played on Monday (Early Rounds) and Thursday (Later Rounds) throughout the season.

 

Individual & Pairs Competitions – Play on published date where possible.

To support greater flexibility and participation, the league adopted a “play by date” format for all individual and pairs competitions. Although the flexibility was useful there was a feeling that players were taking advantage by not being available on number of dates making arrangements difficult. 

We have therefore reverted to set dates but with the ability to rearrange where a valid reason exists. Any issues with rearrangements contact the committee or otherwise just provide the new date

 

o   The Tracey Hall Competition – a mixed pairs competition with a twist! – pair up with a non-league player- the wife, your mate’s wife or husband. Play a combination of Individuals and pairs frames. Everyone gets to play each other in a race to 5!

o   League pairs it’s the same format as above but both players are league players

o   Individual knockout Tournaments. One for the Premier and one for the remaining divisions.

o   TOP 4 Individuals winners from each Competition go head-to-head in a Knockout tournament.

 

 

Rules & Equipment

All PDPL fixtures are played using the official Blackball Rules,

The league uses Aramith Pro Cup balls

Matches begin with a lag for break Tables must be clean, clearly lit, and free from obstruction.

Referees are appointed by each team and must remain focused throughout play.

We ask all captains, players, and venues to familiarise themselves with the regulations that follow. They exist not just to enforce structure, but to uphold the spirit of the game we love.