1. Introduction
This rulebook establishes the standardized officiating standards for all SIBCA-certified referees. These rules must be applied consistently in all matches under SIBCA jurisdiction. The standards outlined in this document form the basis for all certification examinations and ongoing professional development requirements.
2. Snooker Rules Summary
2.1 The Game
Snooker is played with 22 balls: 15 reds (1 point each), 6 colors (2-7 points), and the white cue ball. Players alternately pot red balls then colors, with colors re-spotted until all reds are cleared.
Red x15
1 pt
Yellow
2 pts
Green
3 pts
Brown
4 pts
Blue
5 pts
Pink
6 pts
Black
7 pts
2.2 Standard Fouls (Minimum 4 Points)
- Cue ball not striking the correct ball first
- Any ball leaves the playing surface
- Touching any ball other than the cue ball with hand or instrument
- Push shot or jump shot
- Striking the cue ball when it is not stationary
- Potting the cue ball
2.3 Higher Penalty Fouls
- Foul on the color being played: Value of that color (minimum 4 points)
- Foul on colors when playing red: Value of highest color involved (minimum 4 points)
- Miss: When referee judges the player has not made their best attempt to strike the correct ball
3. Chinese 8-Ball Rules Summary
3.1 The Game
16 balls: 7 solids (1-7), 7 stripes (9-15), 1 black 8-ball, and white cue ball. Players must pot their group (solids or stripes) then legally pot the 8-ball.
3.2 Ball-in-Hand Rules
After any foul, the incoming player may place the cue ball anywhere on the table for their next shot. This rule ensures that fouls are appropriately penalized while maintaining the flow of play.
3.3 Winning the Game
- Legal pocketing of the 8-ball after all your group balls are cleared
- 8-ball pocketed on break: automatic win
- Loss: Pocketing 8-ball before clearing your group
- Loss: Pocketing 8-ball in the wrong designated pocket
4. American 9-Ball Rules Summary
4.1 The Game
Played with balls 1 through 9. Players must always strike the lowest numbered ball first, but may pocket any ball legally. The game ends when the 9-ball is legally pocketed.
4.2 The Break
- Legal break: Minimum 4 balls must hit a rail OR a ball be pocketed
- 9-ball pocketed on break: Instant win for the breaking player
- Illegal break: Incoming player has the option to accept position or require re-rack
4.3 Push-Out
Immediately after a legal break, the incoming player may call a "push-out" and move the cue ball to any position without penalty. The opponent then has the choice to shoot from the new position or require the pushing player to shoot.
5. Referee Duties and Authority
The referee is the sole judge of fair play and rule interpretation. Their decisions are final and may not be appealed. Duties include:
Table Setup
Ensuring proper table setup and equipment inspection before each match
Ball Spotting
Accurate ball spotting and racking according to official specifications
Communication
Clear communication of fouls, scores, and remaining points
Sportsmanship
Maintaining order, etiquette, and sportsmanship at all times