Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 8

Today, we move from 8-ball to 9-ball majority after the second group. We've already seen a fair amount of 9-ball played anyway. Today's action begins with...

Harrison Specters star Sydney S. playing 9-ball with the green cue. Sydney S. knocked down three on the break and needed just 7 shots without an error to finish a great game. Southern Monarchs captain Panda keeps the green cue up with 10-ball. Panda wasn't very assertive with his shots, needing 20 of them with two errors to complete the effort. Web City Spiders captain Jack is set to play 8-ball with the red cue. Jack managed 20 shots and no errors in a strong second appearance. Oceanside Waves rookie Megan plays 10-ball with the silver cue in today's fourth game. Megan had a bad appearance, taking too long to settle in and adding two errors among 24 shots. Boston Swifts veteran Sweetheart is set for her season debut in 7-ball with the blue cue. Sweetheart couldn't get her aim under control, taking 15 shots and no errors.

Tysini Hummingbirds veteran Charli does 10-ball with the silver cue. Charli did what she needed to early in the game, then closed at 13 shots and no errors. Lighton Prestige veteran Shiny draws in for 8-ball with the green cue. Shiny kept her cool despite a lack of big runs, ending in 20 shots and no errors. Vladimir of the Maplewood Lumberjacks goes eighth today, shooting 9-ball with the red cue. Vladimir put three down on the break, but he still struggled from the course of play, ending in 15 shots with one error. North Modernistic Nighthawks newcomer Gizmo plays 8-ball with the purple cue in the next game. Gizmo had a great start and a terrible finish, taking two late errors that pushed him up to 24 shots. Central Warriors newcomer Graham also uses the purple cue, this time in 12-ball. Graham started hot but took caution late, ending with 20 shots and no errors.

The third group gets going with Pronger Tridents newcomer Prism shooting 9-ball with the blue cue. Prism posted 13 shots and an error in this appearance, keeping a steady hand even after some tough shots. Stonebridge Wolves captain Juno goes 12th today, shooting 8-ball with the red cue. Juno was relentless to finish with 17 shots and no errors in a brilliant outing. Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Frosty takes on the blue cue for 9-ball. Frosty scratched on the break but used that to set up success down the line. She ended with just one error in 13 shots. Specters star Sydney S. gets a second appearance today, using the purple cue for 10-ball. Sydney S. had a couple of errors during the game, but she finished with 16 shots. The group closes with Terrace City Knights veteran Oreo playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Oreo's offense was a little too choppy, resulting in 24 error-free shots.

Commerce Tradewinds hotshot Solaris keeps the purple cue active for his 8-ball outing. Solaris showed strength early and played smart late to end with 19 shots and no errors. Southridge Defenders captain Stephanie steps up for 10-ball with the red cue. Stephanie locked in and fired 13 shots without an error for a strong appearance. More 10-ball awaits with Pacific Volcanoes veteran Twinkie I using the blue cue in the event. Twinkie I kept the league form good, playing to 12 shots despite an early error for missed contact. Infinity Torpedoes veteran Shelley keeps the blue cue up with her 9-ball qualifier. Shelley's form dropped off with the 4, but she kicked onto the 5-9 combination at the bottom right to end in 12 shots with no errors. The 20th player called today is Diamond Gems rookie Autumn, who plays 12-ball with the green cue. Autumn had three balls on the break, but one bad play led to three errors and 24 shots for the game.

Group five kicks off with Atlantic Pirates captain Delila playing 9-ball with the green cue. Delila posted 12 shots and one error in a relatively fast game. Stonebridge Wolves rookie Jane is ready for 9-ball with the silver cue. Jane couldn't keep a run going, ending up with 17 shots and no errors in a subpar game. Harrison Specters third-year Rudolph goes in 8-ball with the purple cue. Rudolph made one error for illegal contact, but the strongman still finished in 17 shots for an excellent game. Westside Rockers mainstay Goatee has the 24th game today, playing 12-ball with the silver cue. Goatee fell into the typical 12-ball trap, failing to position well at the sides, which pushed her to 28 shots and two errors. Capital City Sharpshooters mainstay Missy plays her season debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Missy started slow but recovered to end in 11 shots with one error for a scratch.

The Tridents' Prism gets a second game today, playing 10-ball with the silver cue. Prism was in trouble from the start and managed to limit the damage to 20 shots and one error. Kirstin's Stonebridge Wolves debut is next, as she uses the blue cue in 7-ball. Kirstin played fairly well despite a lackluster break, ending in 10 shots without an error. Freedom Cascades sophomore Andrew will play the 28th game today, using the silver cue for 8-ball. Andrew made a mess of his game with two of his three errors coming early. He then closed at 27 shots after a failed gamble for a double-pot. Infinity Torpedoes rookie Blaze goes next, doing 9-ball with the blue cue. Blaze left the 9 near the top left on the break, but he didn't pot it until he had a 5-9 combination to close with 14 shots and no errors. Southridge Defenders newcomer Lize closes the batch with 10-ball and the red cue. Lize couldn't get a good shot early, ending with 18 shots and one error after finishing with a 9-10 combination to the bottom left.

The seventh batch leads off with Queens Flames veteran Mario using the silver cue in 10-ball. Mario didn't impress, his cautious approach unraveled by three errors to push him to 18 shots. Freedom Cascades veteran Roxy is up for her season debut with the purple cue in 7-ball. Roxy scratched on the break but recovered well to finish in 8 shots. Whitewater Shores veteran Marsell goes 33rd today, playing 10-ball with the red cue. Marsell looked to be in control throughout the game, ending in 13 shots with no errors. Next up, Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy plays 9-ball with the purple cue. Ms. Puppy struggled initially, but her miss on the 5 turned into a combination to send the 9 to the top left for 11 shots and no errors. Archtown Arrows veteran Sleepy B. wraps up this group with the green cue in hand for 8-ball. Sleepy B. put the rack down in 16 shots and no errors, showing great confidence.

Fuchsia is ready to debut with the Infinity Torpedoes, using the purple cue for 7-ball. Fuchsia took an early error, her only one in 11 shots to complete her debut. Southern Monarchs rookie Molly goes 37th today, with the red cue in hand for 10-ball. Molly held her own after taking her lone error during a rough start. She closed the game with 16 shots. Freedom Cascades veteran Nikolai is up next, using the silver cue in 9-ball. Nikolai hammered shots left and right, ending with a 3-9 combination to the bottom left for a 7-shot and no errors game. After that, Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley is ready for 8-ball with the green cue. Diddley had two balls on the break, allowing him to weather an error and still end at 16 shots. Tysini Hummingbirds newcomer Sugar brings up the rear in this group, playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Sugar was pretty strong after a shaky start, ending in 19 shots with one error for a scratch.

The ninth group starts with Eastside Sharks rookie Toki making his career debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Toki looked very strong with a ball on the break and just 6 shots with no errors to clear the rack. He'll immediately go again, playing 8-ball with the purple cue in his second career appearance. Toki didn't keep it clean this time, scratching on the break, but he finished in 16 shots. More 8-ball is up next as the Everton Eagles' Cleo plays with the blue cue in the event. Cleo wasn't quite as dominant, but no errors and 19 shots is a good mark to hit. Pearl Surfers veteran Wings plays 10-ball with the silver cue next. Wings wasn't at his best with a double-error near the start, but he settled in for 18 shots to end the game. The 45th player called today is Todavía Stills captain Easter, who will make her season debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Easter missed once early but settled in for 8 shots and no errors in a strong outing.

The final group opens as Pronger Tridents veteran Potter does 8-ball with the green cue. Potter had a dud game with 30 shots and seven errors, in part because he illegally potted the 8. The Spiders captain Jack gets a second game today, using the purple cue in 9-ball. Jack had a fairly standard effort with 13 shots and no errors. The 48th game of the day is 9-ball with the silver cue by Wolves captain Juno, who also makes her second appearance today. Juno ripped a ball down on the break, then cleared the table in 10 shots without an error. Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Cobalt is next, playing 8-ball with the blue cue. Cobalt struggled to get his offense situated throughout the game, ending at 26 shots and no errors despite some close calls. Modernistic Union veteran Puff I will end the day with the silver cue in 8-ball. Puff I kept it simple over 22 error-free shots, recording a good performance to end the week with.

We're done for the week, as hinted at above. We'll resume with weekend action on Saturday.

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 7

We're ready to go on another day of qualifying fun. First up...

Capital City Sharpshooters veteran Lorde plays 8-ball with the blue cue. Lorde scratched on the break and needed time to get going before closing in 21 shots with just the one error. Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Frosty goes second, using the purple cue in 8-ball. Frosty wasn't very good in her early form, but she was able to avoid errors in her 24 shots. Diamond Gems rookie Autumn steps in for 10-ball with the purple cue. Autumn found her groove at the end of this game, taking two errors early before ending on 17 shots. More 10-ball is on the way with Freedom Cascades captain Stinky using the blue cue. Stinky didn't have the best command, but he avoided errors in 18 shots. Midland Predators captain Shawn will also do 10-ball with the blue cue to end the first group. Shawn was in control until mid-game, when a couple errors pushed him to 15 shots.

Capital City Sharpshooters captain Chris goes after the break, shooting 9-ball with the purple cue. Chris was too cautious at the end of his game, needing 15 shots with no errors to finish. Southridge Defenders newcomer Lize keeps the purple cue up for 8-ball. Lize knocked the rack down in only 17 shots without an error. Another Defender, the veteran Wario, plays 9-ball with the green cue. Somewhat unintentionally, Wario put up three errors in 13 shots for a solid but reckless outing. His brother, the Web City Spiders' Waluigi, is next up with the silver cue in 9-ball. Waluigi was convincing with his play, ending on a tough 4-9 combination to the top left for 4 shots and no errors. The 10th player called today is Swordpoint Blades veteran Bandit, who is up for 8-ball with the blue cue. Bandit did a good job of limiting his mistakes, needing just 20 shots and no errors to close the effort.

Pacific Volcanoes veteran Leonette kicks off the third group with the blue cue in hand for 9-ball. Leonette chased the 2 for most of her game, but a 2-9 combination to the top right put her at 7 shots and no errors. The Defenders' Lize gets a second game today, bringing on the red cue for 9-ball. Lize wasn't as sharp this time, leading off with a scratch, but she got it done in 13 shots. More 9-ball awaits for Capital City Sharpshooters veteran Sprinkles, who will use the purple cue. Sprinkles showed little mercy with a pair on the break and only one miss in 8 shots after that, taking no errors in an excellent game. The 14th player drawn today is Oceanside Waves captain Snuggle, who is ready for 9-ball with the silver cue. Snuggle was also sharp with a pair on the break, and he took an error but still finished in 10 shots. It's 10-ball time for Harrison Specters veteran Blizzard, who has the green cue in hand. Blizzard held her own with 18 shots and two errors in a middling performance.

The fourth batch gets going with Everton Eagles captain Goldy playing 9-ball with the blue cue. Goldy had a good start, then chased the 2 before taking her lone error. On the 3, she deflected to sink the 9 to the top right for 8 shots in the game. Diamond Gems veteran Leonardo will breach 13-ball, playing with the red cue for the first game in the event. Leonardo's chance at a great game died early with his major foul of sinking the 8 early. He ended up at 27 shots and seven errors charged. Golden Pilots star Dusty is ready to play 12-ball with the red cue. Dusty did okay in this outing, with 22 shots and one error added to her tally. Southern Monarchs rookie Molly is the 19th to play today, using the blue cue in 9-ball. Molly was undeniably bad in this outing, with 20 shots and three errors needed to clear the table. Back in 13-ball, the Commerce Tradewinds' Rosemary keeps with the highest pace by using the green cue. Rosemary posted 21 shots in the appearance, taking just one error for illegal contact near the end.

Group five leads off with Lighton Prestige captain Acorn's season debut with the blue cue in 7-ball. Acorn produced quite well with 8 shots and no errors. The Cascades' captain Stinky gets a second game today, doing 12-ball with the purple cue. Stinky looked very in control of his game, needing only 20 shots without an error to finish. Pearl Surfers co-captain Neopolitan will make her season debut in 7-ball with the blue cue. Neopolitan couldn't get positioning to go her way, ending at 13 shots with three errors in the game. Captains continue to draw in as Modernistic Union chief Ms. Puppy plays 8-ball with the silver cue. Ms. Puppy was solid with 21 shots and no errors during her second appearance of the year. Lighton Prestige veteran Citrus ends the group with the green cue in 8-ball. Citrus brought fire on her shots, taking just 17 without an error to finish the game quickly.

The sixth group begins with Twinkie I of the Pacific Volcanoes doing 9-ball with the purple cue. Twinkie I had three balls on the break to help her cause, but she was good enough to end in 12 shots with only one error. Royal Crowns newcomer Katelynn gets the 27th game today, using the blue cue in 9-ball. Katelynn was left with mostly long shots, but her short game was also poor. She needed 16 shots and an error to finish. Southern Monarchs veteran Mams is ready to play 7-ball with the silver cue in her season debut. Mams was solid after a slow start, ending with 11 shots and no errors. Whitewater Shores veteran Twinkie III is next, playing 10-ball with the purple cue. Twinkie III played pretty well, but two errors pushed her to 15 shots for the game. Another Shore, the captain Shaggy, is on for 12-ball with the silver cue. Shaggy couldn't convert after meticulous set-up play, taking three errors and 27 shots to finish the game.

Batch seven opens as new Royal Crowns captain Kayla debuts with the green cue in 7-ball. Kayla went empty on the break but dominated after with just 7 shots and no errors in the game. Infinity Torpedoes captain Smudge gets the next game, shooting 9-ball with the red cue. Smudge botched multiple plays with the 9 right next to the top left, but she took no errors and finished in 7 shots. More 9-ball follows as Swordpoint Blades veteran Stealth appears with the blue cue. Stealth started slow and recovered in time to finish at 16 shots and two errors. The Prestige's Citrus will have a second game today, using the silver cue in 9-ball. Citrus stayed free of errors, but she was slow to attack and needed 17 shots to finish. Terrace City Knights veteran Oreo goes 35th today, playing 7-ball with the silver cue. Oreo couldn't get back up to the standard, needing 12 shots with two errors to finish the effort after a missed contact scratch.

Archtown Arrows captain Sally starts this group with 10-ball and the green cue. Sally couldn't get anything to fall early, taking two errors and ending at 23 shots in a poor outing. The 37th game today is Lighton Prestige veteran Shiny's season debut with the purple cue in 7-ball. Shiny had a scratch on the break and couldn't go at a fast pace, ending with 11 shots and just the one error. After that, Predators captain Shawn returns for 12-ball with the blue cue in his second game today. Shawn showed a fair amount of caution, and even with two errors he had 20 shots at the end. Southridge Defenders captain Stephanie is next, playing 9-ball with the red cue. Stephanie stayed poised during a rough start, surging late for 12 shots and no errors. Wrapping up the bunch, Southern Monarchs captain Panda plays 9-ball with the purple cue. Panda did reasonably well, but some late misses and an error set him back to 14 shots for the game.

Group nine is fronted by Vladimir of the Maplewood Lumberjacks, who will shoot 8-ball with the blue cue. Vladimir didn't finish his runs well and he took an error in 26 shots for a poor outing. Atlantic Pirates captain Delila is up for 8-ball with the purple cue. Delila also struggled with two errors and 27 shots in this second appearance of the year. The purple cue stays on for Stonebridge Wolves rookie Jane's debut in 7-ball. Jane had a good start, a slight struggle, and then some lucky bounces to end in 11 shots with no errors. Southridge Defenders newcomer Luigi goes 44th today, playing 8-ball with the blue cue. Luigi showed control initially, and had a little flair in the middle before cautiously finishing at 20 shots with one error. Commerce Tradewinds hotshot Solaris makes his season debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Solaris had an early error for missed contact, but he surged to 8 shots in a strong finish.

Westside Rockers enforcer Midnight uses the red cue in 8-ball to head the final group. Midnight didn't miss much in a great effort which saw her finish at 18 shots and no errors. Royal Crowns rookie Sunshine is next up with the purple cue in hand for 9-ball. Sunshine didn't let a scratch on the break hold him back, as he finished with 11 shots and the one error. Back in 8-ball, Central Warriors veteran Noelle uses the green cue. Noelle took no errors in her game, but she put the 8 dangerously close to the bottom left, hindering her choices. She ended with 23 shots in the game. Wolves rookie Jane is back for 8-ball with the silver cue in her second appearance today. Jane had all the control early in the game, but a late fade and one error pushed her to 22 shots. Today's last appearance is for the Everton Eagles' Puff III, who does 8-ball with the blue cue. Puff III closed the day well with 18 shots and no errors in a dominant effort.

We'll do one more day this week, which will be tomorrow. Friday is a scheduled off-day.

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 6

We're back for another day in the 8-ball majority period. First up today...

Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II plays 9-ball with the green cue. Twinkie II made quick work of the opener, deflecting off the 1 to drive the 9 to the bottom left for a 1-shot and no errors outing. Stonebridge Wolves veteran Wild Thing goes next with the blue cue in 9-ball. Wild Thing was a little more reckless with a scratch on the break and two errors total, but he finished a 5-9 combination to the top side to end at 7 shots. Oceanside Waves captain Snuggle gets the third game today, using the red cue in 8-ball. Snuggle had slow moments in his game, which required 25 shots and one error for a scratch to complete. More 8-ball follows with Freedom Cascades veteran Nikolai playing in the event with the purple cue. Nikolai showed great command in his game, needing just 19 shots and one error to finish. Everton Eagles veteran Cleo wraps up the group with the silver cue in hand for 7-ball. Cleo started well, lost her control in the middle and then finished on 7 shots with a 5-7 combination to the top left. She took no errors.

Fronting the next group, Whitewater Shores newcomer Smokey plays 8-ball with the silver cue. Smokey got himself under control on offense, posting 21 shots and two errors in a solid outing. Archtown Arrows captain Sally draws in for 9-ball with the purple cue. Sally had a good start but took a late error and ended up with 14 shots. Rosalina is set to make her Victoria Spurs debut with the red cue in 7-ball. Rosalina made a ball on the break and scratched early for her lone error among 9 shots. Eastside Sharks sophomore Taylor M. also makes her season debut, using the purple cue for 7-ball. Taylor M. didn't do well at converting first tries, and a late error pushed her up to 14 shots at the end. Another debut takes us into the lunch break, as Central Warriors veteran Noelle uses the silver cue for 7-ball. Noelle was strong with her attack, but took one error for missed contact. She ended at 9 shots.

After the break, the Wolves' Wild Thing gets a second game today in 10-ball with the purple cue. Wild Thing was solid throughout the game, needing 14 shots with one error to finish. Golden Pilots veteran Sparkles plays 8-ball with the blue cue next. Sparkles stepped up well early on, but two errors dragged her back down to 21 shots. Another Pilot, Max, will go next with the silver cue in hand for 9-ball. Max played pretty well and finished in 13 shots with just one error for a scratch. Midland Predators veteran Rainmane is the 14th player called today, doing 8-ball with the purple cue. Rainmane struggled at times after a hot start, ending with 25 shots and two errors from the same mid-game play. Another 8-ball game sees Pacific Volcanoes captain Starlight take up the silver cue. Starlight didn't finish very well with 26 shots and two errors in her second appearance of the season.

Group four kicks off with Rosemary of the Commerce Tradewinds doing 10-ball with the blue cue. Rosemary was unimpressive in this outing, needing 19 shots with two errors to finish. Diamond Gems veteran Leonardo will dip into 12-ball with the silver cue. Leonardo took things very cautiously and ended up with 25 shots and two errors for his effort. Oceanside Waves rookie Megan is next, using the red cue in 8-ball. Megan couldn't finish off the appearance very easily, ending up with 24 shots and an error after a late fade. Modernistic Union mainstay Puff I goes with the silver cue in 7-ball for her season debut. Puff I struggle early but brought heat at the end to close with 10 shots and no errors. Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina comes on for 10-ball with the red cue. Yekaterina kept composure and made some tough plays to go for 13 shots and no errors.

Leading off group five, Marsell of the Whitewater Shores does 9-ball with the purple cue. Marsell had a rotten start, then took his lone error and finished well to end with 16 shots. Lighton Prestige rookie Angelica gets the 22nd game of the day, using the blue cue in 10-ball. Angelica notched 16 shots and an error in a fairly standard effort. Boston Swifts captain Patches follows that with the red cue in hand for 9-ball. Patches drained three on the break and another pair with an early double-pot. She also had time to take an error and still finish with 7 shots. Next up, Commerce Tradewinds star Taylor S. shoots 9-ball with the red cue as well. Taylor S. didn't fare as well, taking one error and fading late to end at 15 shots. More 9-ball with the red cue ends the batch as Freedom Cascades captain Stinky draws in. Stinky stumbled with a chase on the 5 and ended up with 16 shots and two errors in a rough outing.

The 26th game of the day is Gizmo's North Modernistic Nighthawks debut, using the blue cue in 7-ball. Gizmo had an ugly distribution but managed to avoid errors over 12 shots. Viewpoint Sound Meteors veteran Dani jumps into 12-ball with the red cue. Dani looked solid in her game, needing 19 shots and one error to finish. Hughbert will make his Tysini Hummingbirds debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Hughbert held his own over 10 shots with one error, turning in a decent effort. New Southridge Defenders captain Stephanie plays 8-ball with the purple cue next. Stephanie played well and took 22 shots with one error to complete the outing. The bunch ends with Royal Crowns rookie Sunshine also playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Sunshine looked good at first and then a slight fade took him to 21 shots and no errors.

Southridge Defenders veteran Wario begins the next group with the green cue in hand for 8-ball. Wario didn't get many runs going, which forced him to take 25 shots with no errors. Tradewinds rising star Rosemary steps in for 12-ball with the purple cue in her second game today. Rosemary took her time and played smart, helping her avoid errors over 22 shots in a solid game. The 33rd game today belongs to Hoppy of the Archtown Arrows, who has the blue cue in hand for 8-ball. Hoppy kept her cool after a bad break, posting 22 shots and no errors in the appearance. Central Warriors newcomer Mr. Snowman is next with the red cue in 9-ball. Mr. Snowman had some good shots early, but it was a 6-9 bank combination to the top left that closed it out at 10 shots and no errors. Rounding out the group, Maplewood Lumberjacks star Whiskers plays 7-ball with the silver cue. Whiskers was a little unsteady, needing 11 shots with one error to finish.

The Lumberjacks' Whiskers is right back at it with the blue cue in hand for 8-ball. Whiskers finished off the back-to-back with 22 shots and one error after an illegal contact in the mid-game. The 37th player called today is the Central Warriors' Graham, who is up for 10-ball with the blue cue. Graham notched 12 shots and shortened his chase by converting a 5-10 combination to the top left. He added two errors. Next up, the Westside Rockers' Goatee does 10-ball with the purple cue. Goatee wasted a good start by chasing the last few balls too long, ending at 19 shots with no errors. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Leonette goes next with the green cue in 8-ball. Leonette started hot and didn't cool much in taking 20 shots with one error. Closing the group, Eastside Sharks rookie Maison does 9-ball with the green cue. Maison recovered from a brutal start, closing at 16 shots and one error.

The ninth group opens with Tysini Hummingbirds veteran Charli shooting 9-ball with the red cue. Charli looked set for a long game, but her kick on the 2 put the 9 near the top right, and she converted that combination to end at 4 shots and no errors. The Predators' Rainmane gets a second game today, using the silver cue for 9-ball. Rainmane made a pair on the break and kept a strong attack for the rest of the game, which ended in 11 shots with no errors. Todavía Stills veteran Bells tags in for 12-ball with the red cue. Bells was solid in her performance, posting 21 shots and no errors. Archtown Arrows rookie Greg goes next with the blue cue in 8-ball. Greg had an awful time, failing to knock in solids early on. He ended at 30 shots and two errors. Waves rookie Megan gets a second game today, with the silver cue in hand for 9-ball. Megan couldn't up her pace after a good start, ending on 18 shots and one error.

The final group starts with Pearl Surfers co-captain Watermelon playing 9-ball with the purple cue. Watermelon picked up 15 shots and no errors in a solid but unremarkable effort. Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy is up next for 10-ball with the silver cue. Shaggy couldn't keep it clean early on, taking three errors among her 19 shots in the game. The 48th player to shoot today is Central Warriors star Dustin, who has the blue cue up for 9-ball. Dustin wasn't able to develop a run, ending on 17 shots and no errors. The Pilots' Max gets a second look today, playing 10-ball with the purple cue. Max had a bad game, needing 20 shots with four errors to clear the table as his command was non-existent. Boston Swifts veteran Ice Cream will end the day with the green cue in 8-ball. Ice Cream started very well and fell apart to 23 shots and three errors by the end of the game.

We'll go again tomorrow as we keep qualifying rolling on.

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 5

The league will try to flush a poor ending to yesterday's action. We're officially in the 8-ball majority part of the action. We'll begin with...

Central Warriors star Dustin using the red cue in 7-ball to make his season debut. Dustin scratched on the break but stayed strong to finish at 9 shots and one error. Westside Rockers veteran Goatee will bring the blue cue on for 8-ball. Goatee started slow with a cluster, but her play was clean and she ended in 22 shots with no errors. Southern Monarchs captain Panda is next, playing 8-ball with the silver cue. Panda made a bold play, intentionally taking his lone error with illegal contact. It worked, as he ended on 21 shots with a strong finish. More 8-ball with the silver cue is on tap for Freedom Cascades veteran Stripes. It was a rocky start as Stripes scratched on the break, but that would be her only error in 21 shots. Swordpoint Blades captain Snowball draws in for today's 5th game, playing 7-ball with the blue cue. Snowball didn't get anything on the break, but a strong run ended in 5 shots and no errors with a 5-7 bank combination to the top left.

Midland Predators veteran Americus gets deep into her qualifying with the purple cue on hand for 10-ball. Americus started well with a double-pot and then took two errors in 14 shots for a solid outing. Another Predator is next, as the captain Shawn shoots 9-ball with the red cue. Shawn was awful and frustrated with two errors and 21 shots in an ugly third outing of the year. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Twinkie I is up next, using the purple cue for 8-ball. Twinkie I showed great poise in her shots, taking just 17 with no errors to finish the game. Back in 10-ball, Diamond Gems captain Shadow plays the 9th game today. Shadow seemingly refused to miss until a late set-up play on the 10. He had 10 shots and no errors. Tysini Hummingbirds star Charli keeps the purple cue in action for 8-ball. Charli didn't get much outside of a scratch on her break. She needed 26 shots for this game.

The third group kicks off with Viewpoint Sound Meteors veteran Dani using the purple cue for 9-ball. Dani took an early error for a scratch, but she still closed the effort in 11 shots. Dani will get one of the earliest double-ups in qualifying history as she comes back for 10-ball with the blue cue. Dani was less strong this time, taking no errors but needing 23 shots as every close call or combination attempt failed. Boston Swifts captain Patches will take a turn with the blue cue in 8-ball. Patches was unforgiving to the rack, making it all in 18 shots and no errors after an early double-pot set the tone. More 8-ball follows for Southern Monarchs rookie Molly, who brings on the green cue. Molly didn't let a scratch on the break dampen her spirits, as she rallied to end in 19 shots. Closing the set, Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Princess plays 7-ball with the green cue. Princess was bold with a 1-4-7 combination to the top right, but a scratch forced her to play out the rack. She needed 12 shots to finish.

Capital City Sharpshooters mainstay Sprinkles plays 8-ball with the purple cue. Sprinkles didn't have much spread on the break, but no errors allowed her to finish in 22 shots. Modernistic Union third-year Kodiak is set to go in 8-ball with the silver cue. Kodiak was excellent, potting a pair on the break and keeping the momentum to end at 17 shots and no errors. More 8-ball follows for the 18th game of the day as the Freedom Cascades' Stinky plays in the event with the purple cue. Stinky did well early on, but he started to make late mistakes, and couldn't hit the 8 in the kitchen after multiple scratches, leading him to 31 shots and six errors. Modernistic Union sophomore Sydney C. is ready for her season debut, keeping the purple cue on for 7-ball. Sydney C. took some early chances and ended up with an error, but she closed in 10 shots for a solid effort. Queens Flames superstar Violetta is up next, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Violetta had a wonderful start, but after a scratch, she fell back and finished on 23 shots with just the one error.

The 21st game of the day goes to Pearl Surfers veteran Boots, who has the purple cue in hand for 7-ball. Boots was clean in her effort, but some misses pushed her score to 11 shots. Infinity Torpedoes captain Smudge draws in for 8-ball with the red cue next. Smudge was pretty sharp in her game, with one error and 21 shots to her name from the effort. Royal Crowns rookie Sunshine is set for his career debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Sunshine didn't display the best shot selection choices, needing 15 shots with one error in a sloppy outing. Southridge Defenders star Bianca is ready for 10-ball with the red cue. Bianca started well but had to chase the 2, leading to 19 shots and two errors. Pronger Tridents star Spot will wrap up this batch with the blue cue in hand for 8-ball. Spot had trouble at first but locked things down late with 21 shots and no errors.

Group six opens with Capital City Sharpshooters captain Chris shooting 7-ball with the green cue. Chris sprayed down three balls on the break, including the 7 to shoot 0 shots and zero errors. Modernistic Union veteran Daisy follows that with the blue cue in hand for 8-ball. Daisy got herself into some tough positions and navigated them well enough to finish at 22 shots and two errors. The Warriors' Dustin is back for 8-ball with the green cue in his second appearance today. Dustin brought the heat on his shots, pushing his way to 18 shots and no errors in this outing. Going 29th today, Lorde makes her season debut in 7-ball with the red cue for the Capital City Sharpshooters. Lorde's break drove the 7 straight to the bottom right for the 0 shots and zero errors debut. The red cue stays on as Golden Pilots star Dusty shoots 10-ball to close the batch. Dusty was aggressive, sometimes too much, in finishing with 13 shots and two errors in a good game.

Batch seven starts as North Modernistic Nighthawks captain Peach does 7-ball with the green cue. Peach had some issues with form and one error early to end at 13 shots in her season debut. The Rockers' Goatee gets a second game today, also using the green cue for 9-ball. Goatee made the most of her two errors, getting out of bad positioning to score 13 shots after a pair went down on the break. More 9-ball follows in the 33rd game today, as Terrace City Knights captain Kiwi uses the red cue. Kiwi looked to be in trouble initially, but a brilliant two-rail kick to make the 2 led her to finish in 9 shots without an error. A season debut with the blue awaits Southridge Defenders veteran Wario in 7-ball. Wario wasn't able to keep his shooting pure, taking three errors among 14 shots in a poor debut for the year. Central Warriors newcomer Graham finishes this group with the silver cue in hand for 9-ball. Graham couldn't get many good looks early on, taking two errors in his 17 shots with a decent finish.

The eighth group gets going with Stripes of the Cascades returning to play 9-ball with the silver cue in her second game today. Stripes posted 10 shots with a 6-9 combination to the top right to finish early and error-free. The 37th player called today is Twinkie III, who will also use the silver cue in 9-ball as she represents the Whitewater Shores. Twinkie III had some good bounces and some bad luck, resulting in two errors among 15 shots for the game. After that, Eastside Sharks rookie Lily plays 8-ball with the green cue. Lily navigated some early difficulties to finish in 23 shots with no errors. Harrison Specters newcomer Dewey checks in for 10-ball with the red cue. Dewey made a good move to get the 10 to the top right, but left it hanging until finally converting a 9-10 combination to end on 17 shots and one error. Sharpshooters captain Chris gets a second appearance today, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Chris was smooth and steady over 18 shots, and he took no errors in the strong appearance.

The ninth bunch begins when Southern Monarchs veteran Pounce does 7-ball with the red cue. Pounce needed 18 shots without an error after spending too much time chasing the 1 in his season debut. In 9-ball, Capital City Sharpshooters newcomer Paps uses the purple cue. Paps settled in nicely with 11 shots and no errors in a quick outing. Midland Predators newcomer Chicky Phil goes next with the green cue in 8-ball. Chicky Phil kept it simple at first, then let creativity shine later in his 19-shot game with one error. The Victoria Spurs' Yekaterina keeps the green cue up for 9-ball. Yekaterina put the 9 near the bottom left on the break, then played smart before deflecting off the 4 to take the 9 down for 7 shots and no errors. Archtown Arrows rookie Greg debuts in 7-ball with the purple cue in today's 45th game. Greg had some unusual bounces on his break, but the 7 fell in the top left for 0 shots and zero errors anyway.

The final group is led by Oceanside Waves rookie Megan, who makes her career debut in 7-ball with the silver cue. Megan struggled from the start and took a double-error for missed contact and a scratch. She wound up with 15 shots in the game. Infinity Torpedoes star Fluffina is ready to go with the red cue in 9-ball. Fluffina overcame a couple of errors to finish in 13 shots, aided by sinking a pair on the break. Archtown Arrows captain Sally draws in for 8-ball with the silver cue. Sally was fiery to start, then tamed a bit to end with 18 shots and no errors as she practiced caution. Atlantic Pirates rookie Buddy gets his second career game in 8-ball with the red cue. Buddy had a rough run with 26 shots and one error in his time. Leonardo will end the day in 10-ball with the green cue. Leonardo finished the game in 16 shots but also suffered three errors along the way.

That's it for today's action. We'll be back at it tomorrow.

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 4

We're back after a scheduled two-day break to play more qualifiers. First up today...

Victoria Spurs superstar Yekaterina plays 7-ball with the red cue to start her season. Yekaterina picked up a ball on the break and never cooled off with a 6-shot outing and no errors. Another star debuts as the Infinity Torpedoes' Fluffina uses the silver cue in 7-ball. Fluffina's break was a bang-bang play, which bumped the 7 forcefully to the bottom right for 0 shots and zero errors. The Pearl Surfers' Wings keeps the silver cue in action with his 8-ball appearance. Wings didn't enjoy his game so much, requiring 24 shots and one error to finish after nothing really clicked quite right. Pronger Tridents newcomer Prism gets the fourth game today, using the red cue in 8-ball. Prism was doing just fine in her game, but she scratched as she made the 8, putting her at 27 shots and six errors. The blue cue comes on for the Southern Monarchs' Dominic, who will play 9-ball. Dominic posted 16 shots and no errors in this one, starting fairly well but fading after the 8.

The next batch begins with Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy playing 7-ball with the blue cue. Ms. Puppy posted 9 shots and an error in her appearance, taking a solid approach to the attack. Harrison Specters veteran Blizzard draws in for the seventh game with the silver cue in hand for 9-ball. Blizzard ripped the rack down in 12 shots and no errors, an excellent performance. Another Specter, the star Sydney S., plays 8-ball with the red cue next. Sydney S. had a poor break and couldn't break free from the cluster. She surged late, but two errors dragged her down to 26 shots. Pearl Surfers veteran Bright has the green cue in hand for 9-ball. Bright was bad from the start this time, needing 22 shots and two errors after chasing just about every ball on the table. The Spurs' Yekaterina is back for 8-ball with the blue cue now. Yekaterina kept a steady hand after a good break, taking only one error among 20 shots.

Group three kicks off Watermelon of the Pearl Surfers doing 8-ball with the green cue. Watermelon got a good break and took only one error as she finished in 20 shots. Another double-draw sees the Torpedoes' Fluffina back for 8-ball with the purple cue. Fluffina couldn't keep the cue on the table, taking three errors for scratches among her 24 shots in a modest effort. Pronger Tridents star Spot is set to debut for the season with the silver cue in 7-ball. Spot needed 11 shots after a pair of early errors slowed him down. Freedom Cascades sophomore Andrew debuts with the team in 7-ball using the green cue. Andrew nearly got the 7 on the break, but he settled for a 1-shot game as he picked it up at the bottom left from a 1-5 combination deflection. He took no errors. Leading into the lunch break, Whitewater Shores veteran Katharine plays 8-ball with the purple cue. Katharine posted 20 shots and one error after an early scratch helped clear the way for big attacks.

After the break, Pauline makes her Queens Flames debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Pauline played decently in this game, taking 10 shots with one error. Central Warriors newcomer Graham is ready for his debut with the team in 7-ball with the red cue. Graham overcame some sloppy play, as his two errors were mostly productive and he was able to finish in 9 shots. Everton Eagles captain Goldy keeps the red cue up with 8-ball. Goldy put in a fairly standard effort with 22 shots and no errors during this game. Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Cobalt debuts with the team in 7-ball using the purple cue. Cobalt delivered 9 shots and no errors in a steady first look with his new squad. Diamond Gems veteran Leonardo closes the batch with the blue cue in hand for 8-ball. Leonardo posted 23 shots after a good start was sullied by a pair of errors.

The fifth group starts with Atlantic Pirates rookie Buddy making his debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Buddy made a good first impression with 8 shots and just one error for a scratch in the game. Harrison Specters' newcomer Dewey goes 22nd today, using the purple cue for 9-ball. Dewey needed 16 shots and one error to complete the effort after a slow start. After that, Capital City Sharpshooters veteran Sprinkles is set to start her year in 7-ball with the blue cue. Sprinkles had some nice bounces to finish at 9 shots and no errors in the game. Chimpy will make his season debut for the Westside Rockers with the silver cue in 7-ball. Chimpy kept good control on his plays, ending with 8 shots and no errors. Another season debut wraps the group, as the Boston Swifts' Gradley does 7-ball with the blue cue. Gradley was rewarded for clean and patient play, converting the 6-7 combination to the top side to end in 7 shots and no errors.

Group six opens as Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy plays 9-ball with the silver cue. Shaggy struggled early on and ended up at 18 shots with one error. Web City Spiders leader Jack is set to debut for the season with the red cue in 7-ball. Jack went far-right on his break and sent the 7 to the bottom side along with the 3 to the bottom left for 0 shots and zero errors. Another debut follows as the Southern Monarchs' captain Panda uses the blue cue in 7-ball. Panda used the same plan and converted the 7 to the bottom right on the break, also scoring 0 shots and zero errors. The Warriors' Graham gets his second game today, using the green cue in 8-ball. Graham was bad from the start, when he illegally potted the 8 quickly. He surged near the end, then stalled to 30 shots with seven errors. Swordpoint Blades veteran Bandit closes the bunch with 7-ball and the red cue. Bandit made quick work of the game in 6 shots with no errors after snagging a ball on the break.

The seventh batch is led by Lighton Prestige mainstay Spirit, who will use the green cue in 7-ball. Spirit made a ball on the break and converted a 5-7 bank combination to the bottom left to end at 5 shots and no errors. Swordpoint Blades veteran Stealth gets the 32nd game today, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Stealth faded from a good game to average, and then awful when he scratched as he made the 8. The end tally was 29 shots and eight errors for the critical foul. The Gems' Leonardo is back for 9-ball with the silver cue in his second appearance today. Leonardo was creative after his one error for a scratch. He ended up with 6 shots when his 4-9 kick combination landed at the top left. More 9-ball is on the way with Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot using the blue cue in that event. Hoot started well but faded late, although his lone error probably shortened the game as he finished on the next play for 15 shots. Royal Crowns newcomer Katelynn ends this group with the blue cue in 8-ball. Katelynn was near-masterful in this appearance, needing only 17 shots to clear the table with no errors.

The eighth group begins when Commerce Tradewinds star Taylor S. plays 8-ball with the silver cue. Taylor S. seemed to be on track for an acceptable outing until she scratched while potting the 8. She ended with 28 shots and seven errors for her trouble. More 8-ball follows with Capital City Sharpshooters newcomer Paps using the red cue. Paps was excellent, getting the 8 down quickly and legally, but the last ball troubled him up to 20 shots without an error. Next up, Diamond Gems rookie Autumn plays 8-ball with the blue cue. Autumn had a poor break and took her time to get through that, ending with 27 shots and no errors. Lighton Prestige star Citrus will make her season debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Citrus potted the 4 to the top side and the 7 to the bottom side on a successful break shot, scoring 0 shots and zero errors. Another Prestige player is the 40th drawn today, as the rookie Angelica is set to use the green cue in 9-ball. Angelica's youth showed this time, as she had two double-fouls for missed contact scratches. She ended up with 18 shots and four errors.

Gems rookie Autumn is back for her second game today, putting the purple cue to use in 9-ball. Autumn again struggled, requiring 18 shots and one error to complete the effort. Tysini Hummingbirds star Charli is set for her season debut, using the silver cue in 7-ball. Charli had one mistake when she missed contact and scratched, but those two errors only inflated her score to 10 shots. The Surfers' Wings will also get a second game today, using the green cue in 9-ball. Wings made two on the break and also scratched for his lone error. He didn't fade from there, working his way to an 8-shot effort. The 44th game of the day goes to Viewpoint Sound Meteors veteran Dani, who will play 8-ball with the blue cue. Dani recovered from a slow start and her lone error to end at 23 shots. The group closes with Southridge Defenders star Bianca doing 9-ball with the green cue. Bianca left this appearance enraged with 23 shots and five errors to her name.

The final group gets going with the Victoria Spurs' Sage doing 9-ball with the purple cue. Sage chased the 1 around the table until she lined up and converted the 1-9 combination to the top right to end with 10 shots and no errors. Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley goes next with the silver cue in 7-ball. Diddley couldn't correct course with 14 shots and three errors in an ugly season debut. Midland Predators captain Shawn steps up with the purple cue for 8-ball. Shawn posted 27 shots and four errors, growing enraged at three consecutive scratches in the middle. More 8-ball awaits when Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II uses the green cue in the event. Twinkie II inspired hope with a controlled and error-free outing, needing only 20 shots to complete the game. Terrace City Knights star Jennifer ends the day in 8-ball with the blue cue. Jennifer was good to start, but a poor ending and a scratch while she made the 8 left her at 27 shots and six errors.

The league will hope for better tomorrow. 

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 3

We're ready to go for a day that should be a pretty close split of 7-ball and 8-ball, with more 9-ball mixed in as well. First up...

Smokey makes his Whitewater Shores debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Smokey can be proud of his effort, finishing in 8 shots with no errors as he played solidly throughout. Another Shore, the captain Shaggy, is set to play 8-ball with the red cue. Shaggy looked steady in her game as well, taking no errors and clearing the table in 20 shots. More 8-ball with the red cue is next as the North Modernistic Nighthawks' Lionel steps up. Lionel made a pair on the break and played a quick game in 19 shots with no errors, his clean play shining through. The fourth player today is Eastside Sharks rookie Lily, who will debut with the purple cue in 7-ball. Lily got the 3 to drop in the bottom left and the 7 to slow roll into the top right to give her 0 shots and zero errors in her career debut. The Pearl Surfers' Bright will give the silver cue its first action today in 8-ball. Bright did well after a slow start, finding his way to 20 shots with just one late error from a scratch.

Next up is Chicky Phil, who is set for his Midland Predators debut with the blue cue in 7-ball. Chicky Phil made a great first impression, converting a 1-7 combination to the top left to end with 1 shot and no errors. The Queens Flames' Mario goes next, playing 9-ball with the green cue. Mario was excellent to put the 9 near the bottom left on the break. He then converted a 1-4-9 combination to finish with 1 shot and no errors. More 9-ball is on the way with the Commerce Tradewinds' Rosemary using the red cue. Rosemary played well, getting a ball on the break and making some good shots. She finished with 12 shots and 1 error in the game. Harrison Specters newcomer Dewey is set to make his debut with the team in 7-ball using the green cue. Fantastic breaks continue to dominate the day's early headlines, as Dewey rocketed the 7 off multiple rails to the bottom right for 0 shots and zero errors. Midland Predators veteran Americus takes us to the lunch break with the red cue in hand for 8-ball. Americus had a decent start, but her form dropped late as she needed 25 shots and no errors to complete the effort.

After the break, Queens Flames rising star Briana plays 9-ball with the red cue. Briana made a pair on the break and only took one early error before closing with 11 shots. Southern Monarchs rookie Molly goes 12th today, playing 7-ball with the blue cue in her career debut. Molly was strong in her first career game, potting the rack in 7 shots and no errors. Infinity Torpedoes captain Smudge is next, playing 7-ball with the red cue. Smudge did everything right at first, but butchered her finish at 14 shots and one error. Tysini Hummingbirds sophomore Sarah is ready to go in 8-ball with the blue cue. Sarah had some struggles in compiling longer runs, and a pair of errors pushed her up to 25 shots. Rounding out the batch, Pacific Volcanoes captain Starlight makes her season debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Starlight tallied 10 shots and no errors in a standard debut outing for the year.

Group four opens with Midland Predators sophomore Kitty playing 7-ball with the red cue. Kitty did what she needed to on the break, making the 7 to the bottom side for 0 shots and zero errors. The Flames' Briana is the first player to venture into 10-ball, using the red cue for her second appearance of the day. Briana got a ball on the break and started well, then took two errors before converting the 4-10 combination to the top left to end on 12 shots. The red cue stays on for the 18th game today, as the Golden Pilots' Strut plays 8-ball. Strut had a rather unremarkable effort with 22 shots and one error in his second appearance of the year. The green cue gets back in with Westside Rockers veteran Midnight playing 7-ball. Midnight started well but struggled with the 4, taking a lone error for a scratch. She ended with 11 shots. Golden Pilots captain Valencia jumps in for 9-ball with the blue cue. Valencia had three balls on the break but looked shaky in the game. She got a lucky bounce on the 4 to take the 9 at the top left for 6 shots and no errors.

The fifth group starts with Diamond Gems captain Shadow using the red cue in 8-ball. Shadow was aggressive in his game, needing 20 shots with one error for a scratch to complete the effort. Terrace City Knights third-year Quincy also plays 8-ball with the red cue. Quincy spent too much time chasing his late plays, ending with 23 shots and one error. The Gems' Shadow is right back in action for 9-ball with the blue cue. A fortunate bounce cut short Shadow's game, giving him 9 shots and no errors after some shaky play. Back in 8-ball, Lighton Prestige rookie Angelica takes up the red cue. Angelica started slow but found her way to 22 shots with only one error for a scratch early on. Wrapping up the group, Westside Rockers mainstay Goatee uses the silver cue in 7-ball. Goatee's break sufficed in her season debut, sending the 7 to the bottom side for 0 shots and zero errors.

Leading off the sixth batch, Harrison Specters newcomer Dewey plays 8-ball with the purple cue. Dewey showed no mercy on his shots, closing the game in 17 shots with no errors in a second great effort today. Longtime Pacific Volcanoes veteran Ms. Kitty goes 27th today, debuting in 7-ball with the red cue. Ms. Kitty showed elite shot selection to overcome tough positioning. She had 7 shots and no errors in her season debut. Archtown Arrows veteran Hoppy is next, playing 7-ball with the silver cue. Hoppy made a ball on the break in her game, and then closed in 7 shots with no errors. The Todavía Stills' Bells is ready to go in 10-ball with the blue cue. Bells started out fine but slipped as the game went on, requiring 22 shots with one error to finish. Central Warriors captain Twilight plays 9-ball with the blue cue to close this group. Twilight was solid from start to finish, doing the game in 13 shots and no errors.

Group seven begins as Whitewater Shores veteran Marsell plays 8-ball with the green cue. Marsell started wonderfully, but solids gave him trouble, and he needed 21 shots and no errors to finish. Luigi is set for his Southridge Defenders debut, using the purple cue in 7-ball. Luigi joins the growing list of players to make the 7 on the break today, sinking it to the bottom side for 0 shots and zero errors. The Predators' Americus gets a second game today, using the red cue for 9-ball. Americus scratched on the break, but it would be her lone error in 14 shots. Swordpoint Blades rookie Esmeralda is next, playing 8-ball with the blue cue. Esmeralda rattled off 20 shots and no errors in a quick-moving second career appearance. The group ends with Sparkles of the Golden Pilots doing 7-ball with the silver cue. Sparkles couldn't seem to find a clear shot most of the time, ending on 15 shots without an error.

The eighth bunch kicks off with Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot playing 8-ball with the silver cue. Hoot did alright on stripes, but he potted the 8 illegally and struggled after that. He finished at 32 shots and nine errors, nearly assuring himself of a turn in the play-in round. Another Meteor, the veteran Dani, will debut in 7-ball with the red cue in today's 37th game. Dani had poor positioning early on, leading to two errors before she finished strong at 12 shots. Harrison Specters star Blizzard is set to use the green cue in 8-ball. Blizzard couldn't avoid some errors, picking up three fouls along the way, but she was able to close at 24 shots. Another Specter, the third-year Rudolph, is set to keep the green cue up for his season debut in 7-ball. Rudolph kept himself strong with a contact play on the 2, and he would end in 9 shots without an error. Rounding out the batch, Avril makes her Pronger Tridents debut with the green cue in hand for 7-ball. Avril had some good and some bad in her 10 shots, the worst being an error that set up a smooth finish.

Fronting group nine, Golden Pilots veteran Dusty does 9-ball with the green cue. Dusty suffered an early scratch, but she showed strong control to end in 7 shots, including a 5-9 combination to the top left. Maplewood Lumberjacks youngster Summer is up for 8-ball with the silver cue. Summer navigated a weak break pretty well early on, and a late error only pushed her back to 22 shots. Sugar will make her Tysini Hummingbirds debut next, using the silver cue in 7-ball. Sugar struggled with poor positioning, taking an early error for illegal contact. She ended at 13 shots and just the one error. The silver cue stays on for Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II's season debut in 7-ball. Twinkie II had an error for a missed contact early on, but she cleared the table in 10 shots anyway. The 45th game of the day is 8-ball with the purple cue by the Southern Monarchs' Dominic. He didn't play particularly well, but a good run in the middle and no errors allowed him to close at 24 shots.

Midland Predators captain Shawn keeps the purple cue active for his season debut in 7-ball. Shawn took care of business in 9 shots with no errors to start the season well. The Tridents' Avril will get a second look today, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Avril had a good run in the middle but slipped late to end with 21 shots and no errors in a solid effort. The newest Capital City Sharpshooter, Paps, will make his team debut with the purple cue in 7-ball. Paps was excellent with a ball on the break and a 1-2-7 combination to the top left, with the 1 deflecting to the bottom left for a double-pot. He ended with 1 shot and no errors. Another purple cue season debut sees new Southridge Defenders captain Stephanie playing 7-ball. Stephanie had an error early in her game, but recovered to finish in 9 shots in a solid start to the year. We'll end the day with one more debut as Katelynn uses the purple cue in 7-ball in her first appearance for the Royal Crowns. Katelynn took an early error and finished her game in a reasonable 10 shots.

We're off Friday and Saturday this week -- Qualifiers resume on Sunday with Day 4.

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 2

We're back after an unplanned day off to play Day 2 of qualifying. We'll still likely see a majority of 7-ball, but more 8-ball should factor in as well. First up...

Golden Pilots captain Valencia makes her season debut with the blue cue. Valencia played smart after an empty break, eventually finishing at 5 shots and no errors with a 2-7 bank combination. Victoria Spurs veteran Sage steps in with the silver cue to start her season. Sage didn't have much command on her late shots, ending up at 12 shots and no errors. Tysini Hummingbirds sophomore Sarah gets the third game today, debuting with the red cue. Sarah started well and faded late, closing her first game at 11 shots and no errors after some trouble finishing up. The Pearl Surfers' Bright is up next, playing with the blue cue. Bright was not good in his season debut, lacking precision and taking two errors over 13 shots. The first group closes with Westside Rockers veteran Slinks using the green cue in 7-ball. Slinks couldn't shake the common theme of poor finishing, but her strong early play put her at 10 shots and no errors.

Atlantic Pirates captain Delila kicks off this batch with the red cue in hand for her season debut. Delila posted 8 shots and no errors in a solid performance that saw her stay consistent. Vladimir is set for his Maplewood Lumberjacks debut, using the purple cue. Vladimir did not make a good first impression, missing a lot of plays and taking two errors over 15 shots. Wings is set to make his re-debut with the Pearl Surfers, using the green cue to kick off his second stint with the team. Wings avoided disaster with multiple glancing kicks, ending the game at 11 shots and no errors. The ninth player drawn today is Southridge Defenders star Bianca, who uses the silver cue in 8-ball. Bianca did her job well in this one, finishing with 20 shots and no errors. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Twinkie I takes us into the morning break with 7-ball and the purple cue. Twinkie I started fairly well but struggled late to close at 10 shots and no errors.

The Everton Eagles' Puff III will use the purple cue for her season debut after the lunch break. Puff III made the 7 but also scratched on the break for her lone error. She had to clear the table and did so in 9 shots. Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot keeps the purple cue active for his season debut. Hoot potted the 7 illegally on his first attempt after the break, which accounted for his lone error. He wound up with 10 shots at the end after clearing the table. Lize's Southridge Defenders debut is next, which features the blue cue. Lize made a perfect impression on her new team, sinking the 7 to the bottom side on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. The purple cue is back for Mr. Snowman's first appearance as a Central Warrior. Mr. Snowman one-upped his predecessor, pulling off 0 shots and zero errors with two balls falling on the break, including the 7 to the top side. Finishing the group, the Golden Pilots' Dusty plays 8-ball with the silver cue. Dusty was in control the entire time, finishing with 19 shots and no errors in a good second outing.

Group four starts with Tysini Hummingbirds captain Leandra using the green cue in her season debut. Leandra posted 10 shots and no errors after a hot start cooled a little too quickly. Infinity Torpedoes rookie Blaze goes in 8-ball with the purple cue. Blaze held his own in this appearance, working solids quickly and ending with 20 shots and no errors. The first 9-ball game of the year goes to the Swordpoint Blades' Dreamy, who will use the red cue. Dreamy had a couple of early errors, but she settled in and finished at 14 shots. The 19th player drawn today is Max of the Golden Pilots, who uses the red cue in 8-ball. Max did reasonably well despite some early struggles, closing the game at 22 shots and no errors. Oceanside Waves captain Snuggle wraps up this batch with the silver cue in hand for 7-ball. Snuggle had an easy debut, making a ball on the break and then converting his second attempt on the 2-7 combination to the top right to finish with two shots and no errors.

The fifth bunch opens with Freedom Cascades veteran Nikolai using the blue cue in his season debut. Nikolai had an early error, which offset his two balls on the break. He closed with 7 shots and the single error for missed contact. The 22nd game of the day goes to Central Warriors captain Twilight, who has the purple cue for 8-ball. Twilight looked very confident this time, but she sank the 8 in the wrong pocket for a five-error performance in 22 shots. Terrace City Knights third-year Quincy brings the blue cue back for 7-ball. Quincy missed contact early in his game, but that was his only error among 10 shots in a solid outing. Freedom Cascades veteran Stripes debuts next, using the red cue. Stripes had illegal contact early on, but closed at 11 shots with just one error. Todavía Stills veteran Bells ends the group with the blue cue in 9-ball. Bells struggled with two errors in 17 shots during this game, perhaps fatigued from her busy start to qualifying.

The sixth group gets going with the North Modernistic Nighthawks' Gal playing 7-ball with the green cue. Gal played with fire early on a tricky double-pot, but took a later error and finished in 10 shots. Another Celebrity takes up the green cue as the Queens Flames' Mario makes his season debut. Mario posted 9 shots and no errors in a solid performance to start his year. More green cue action comes in 8-ball with the Whitewater Shores veteran Twinkie III. She was only able to shoot solids well, while stripes got in the way in the middle of the game. At the end, Twinkie III had 29 shots and three errors. Queens Flames hotshot Briana is set to play 7-ball with the red cue. Briana took some chances and didn't get punished, finishing with 10 shots and no errors in a standard effort. Southern Monarchs veteran Dominic seals the group with the blue cue in 7-ball. Dominic had the best of luck after making the 1 on the break, as he dug the 2 out of danger and sent the 7 to the top side for a 1-shot and no errors game.

Batch seven sees Commerce Tradewinds youngster Rosemary take a go at 8-ball with the red cue. Rosemary started pretty well before an error shook her up. It was her only foul in 22 shots. The Queens Flames' Violetta keeps the red cue up for her season debut in 7-ball. Violetta showed good form throughout the game, which lasted 7 shots with no errors. Diamond Gems rookie Autumn goes next, her career debut coming with the silver cue. Autumn came close to a couple of errors but didn't commit, then ended a clean outing in 8 shots. Infinity Torpedoes veteran Shelley is next up, using the green cue in 7-ball. Shelley scratched on the break for her lone error, then cleared the table in 10 shots. The group closes with Whitewater Shores veteran Katharine using the red cue in 7-ball. Katharine went empty on the break but didn't miss a shot after that, posting 7 shots and no errors.

The Torpedoes' Shelley is right back in action for 8-ball with the green cue. Shelley made a pair on the break and rarely faltered in her game, although a scratch on her last ball gave her a lone error in 17 shots. More 8-ball awaits in the 37th game today as the Web City Spiders' Waluigi plays with the blue cue. Waluigi was solid with 21 shots and one error for an early foul in this game. It's debut time next for Swordpoint Blades rookie Esmeralda, who has the blue cue for 7-ball. Esmeralda required 11 shots and one error after an unusually soft break from the rookie. Stinky plays his first game as Freedom Cascades captain, using the purple cue in 7-ball. Stinky didn't show much in his game, taking one error in 14 shots. Ending the bunch, Archtown Arrows captain Sally plays her season debut with the red cue. Sally had a great start, but she didn't want to take a foul at the end. She would scratch anyway, finishing with 11 shots and one error.

The 41st game today features the Flames' Briana playing 8-ball with the blue cue, her second appearance of the day. Briana wasn't perfect, taking an error for a scratch, but she finished with 21 shots. The blue cue gets another crack at 8-ball with Stonebridge Wolves veteran Wild Thing. He didn't do well, with one error among 27 shots as he failed to string together multiple big runs. More 8-ball awaits as the Flames' Mario takes a second turn today, using the red cue. Mario popped off early in his appearance, but stalled late and took an error before finishing with 23 shots. The 8-ball tour continues with the Warriors' Mr. Snowman using the silver cue in the event. Mr. Snowman took one error for illegal contact, but he finished in just 19 shots due to a good form throughout. The group ends with Midland Predators veteran Rainmane debuting in 7-ball with the green cue. Rainmane potted one on the break and took one error with an early scratch before closing at 7 shots.

The final group is fronted by Golden Pilots captain Valencia, who will do 8-ball with the silver cue. Valencia kept this game clean, needing 22 shots to clear the table. The silver cue will stay up for Modernistic Union third-year Kodiak, who plays 7-ball in his season debut. Kodiak was plagued by bad luck early on, but a little good luck helped him finish with 13 shots and three errors. Eastside Sharks rookie Maison will draw in for 8-ball with the blue cue. Maison couldn't get clear shots early on, causing him to need 25 shots with one late error to finish the game. The Spurs' Sage gets her second game of the day as well, using the purple cue in 8-ball. The usually mild-mannered Sage was livid after this game, which saw her need 29 shots and one error after stripes evaded her efforts. Longtime Everton Eagles captain Goldy will finish the day in 7-ball with the blue cue. Goldy tried a little too hard to be fast in her appearance, which took 10 shots and two errors.

That'll be all for today. Tomorrow, we go again, but then take Friday and Saturday off due to other commitments.

Tournament X Qualifiers - Day 1

Qualifiers are here, in the familiar form as they've always been. This year, we're not tracking break accomplishments, as the three-year research sequence concluded that making a ball on the break does have a generally positive impact on performance. Today's opening day action will mostly consist of 7-ball, with a slight chance of 8-ball or 9-ball later in the action. First up...

Terrace City Knights veteran Jennifer will kick off the Qualifying season with the purple cue. Jennifer had a pair of balls on the break, but quickly suffered a missed contact scratch to account for her two errors in a 13-shot season debut. Boston Swifts captain Patches gets the second appearance today, using the green cue. Patches brought the heat with three balls on the break, and then finished in 7 shots with just one error after illegal contact. Pearl Surfers co-captain Watermelon brings one of the veteran cues on as she debuts with blue. Watermelon didn't bring her best to this game, an empty break and a brutal error sending her to a 14-shot outing to start her qualifying season. The Victoria Spurs' Strawberry (wearing their brand new pink-and-black home jersey) will give the red cue its first action in qualifying. Strawberry scratched on the break for her lone error, and then rattled off a perfect run from there, scoring 8 shots. The green cue is back for the Todavía Stills' Bells to close the group. Bells got a ball on the break, but sloppy play at the end put her at 13 shots and no errors.

The green cue opens for group two as the Royal Crowns' Brownie makes her season debut. Brownie made a ball on the break and looked good until a missed contact. She ended at 12 shots and one error. Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Frosty goes next with the red cue. Frosty found a pair on the break but stumbled mid-game a bit. She held true and finished at 10 shots with no errors. Prism is ready for her Pronger Tridents debut, picking up the green cue for the game. Prism took two on the break and had a good alignment early on. She just missed contact for a lone error on the 7, but converted on the next attempt to end at 9 shots. New Diamond Gems captain Shadow will give the silver cue its first taste of Tournament X play with its new shaft. Shadow kept it clean over his 12 shots, although his early finishing lacked much punch. Terrace City Knights captain Kiwi will close out the batch with the purple cue in hand. Kiwi scratched on the break for her lone error in her season debut. She made up for it with a 3-7 combination to the bottom side to end in 5 shots.

The third bunch starts with Eastside Sharks rookie Maison making his qualifying debut with the green cue. Maison did his part with a ball on the break, but he also took an early error. The rookie finished with 10 shots in a solid first game. Diamond Gems veteran Leonardo will take today's 12th game, using the red cue. Leonardo had a scratch early in his game and needed 15 shots to clear the rack in a disappointing effort. Another Eastern Hills player goes next, as the Pronger Tridents' Potter starts his season with the blue cue. Potter overcame a scratch on the break by sinking three other balls at the same time. He was a little overzealous near the end, but finish with 7 shots. The Web City Spiders' Waluigi uses the red cue to start his second year with the team. Waluigi made good with a ball on the break and kept his play clean over 9 shots to start the season well. Salmo will make his Diamond Gems debut with the purple cue in hand to finish this group. Salmo did alright despite one error for missed contact. He was locked in after that to close at 11 shots.

Commerce Tradewinds superstar Taylor S. leads the next group with the green cue. Taylor S. capitalized on her missed contact error, aligning a solid run to finish the game in 10 shots. Midland Predators veteran Americus will take her debut with the silver cue. Americus couldn't get contact on the 2 and scratched for a pair of errors early, but she cruised to an 11-shot effort at the end. Another Commerce Tradewind, the rising star Rosemary, will use the blue cue in her season debut. Rosemary struck on the break and surged early before the 7 gave her trouble. She finished with 10 shots and no errors. North Modernistic Nighthawks veteran Lionel is the 19th player drawn today, using the purple cue to start his season. Lionel picked up a pair on the break but didn't shoot all that well with 11 shots and no errors over the rest of the game. Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy completes the group with the green cue in hand. Shaggy made a pair on the break and stayed composed early, but began to chase as she finished with 10 shots and no errors.

The fifth group sees Maplewood Lumberjacks third-year Summer playing with the red cue to start. Summer finally achieved the 7 on the break in her game, debuting perfectly with 0 shots and zero errors. The Terrace City Knights' Melissa will follow that, using the green cue in her season debut. Melissa was a little more loose on her shots, including an early scratch for her lone error. She ended up with 13 shots by the end. The blue cue cycles in as the Golden Pilots' Strut takes today's 23rd game. Strut knocked in a ball on the break, but he also missed contact on the 7 at first. Strut took one error in 11 shots. The Swordpoint Blades' stalwart Dreamy will bring the green cue back for her season debut. Dreamy had a ball on the break and crushed down her shots through good positioning to end with 7 shots and no errors. The group wraps up with Whitewater Shores star Twinkie III using the blue cue. Twinkie III went perfect in her season debut, sending the 7 straight to the top right for 0 shots and zero errors.

Group six begins with the North Modernistic Nighthawks' Cheddar using the silver cue. Cheddar got a ball on the break and found some early success before a scratch. She then surged to end at 8 shots and just the one error. The Blades' Dreamy will take this year's first crack at 8-ball, using the purple cue. Dreamy came out blazing on stripes and then followed up with a nice run on solids. She finished at 19 shots, fading late but taking no errors. Next up, Modernistic Union veteran Daisy plays 7-ball with the blue cue. Daisy made three balls on the break, giving her time to play smart in her season debut. She ended with 7 shots and no errors for a good game. The Whitewater Shores' Marsell keeps the blue cue in action for his debut game. Marsell was empty on the break, but his confident play allowed him to finish in 9 shots and no errors. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Cowzart takes the 30th game today, using the purple cue. Cowzart made a ball on the break and navigated some tough positions to end with 9 shots and no errors.

The purple cue will stay up to kick off group seven as Westside Rockers captain Misty is set to play. Misty quickly went the distance in her season debut, needing 4 shots with no errors after taking three balls on the break. Her daughter, the Harrison Specters' Blizzard, uses the green cue here. Blizzard made a pair on the break and elected to play cautiously near the end, sending the 7 to the top right to finish at 7 shots and no errors. Solid Core players remain in action as the Pacific Volcanoes' Leonette takes games 33 with the red cue. Leonette had some struggles with positioning this time, ending with 11 shots and one error after a scratch. Up next, Boston Swifts veteran Ice Cream uses the silver cue in her season debut. Ice Cream's break saw three balls go down, but poor positioning meant she needed 8 shots and no errors to finish the game. The batch ends with Lighton Prestige rookie Angelica making her career debut with the red cue. Angelica had a little luck in her debut, making a pair on the break and double-kissing the 1-7 combination to the bottom side to end with 1 shot and zero errors.

The eighth bunch gets going with Stonebridge Wolves captain Juno using the blue cue in her season debut. Juno displayed a steady hand after a slow start, finishing with 8 shots and no errors. The Knights' captain Kiwi gets a second game today, playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Kiwi had to alternate between suits a lot but ended up with just 19 shots and no errors in a good outing. Back in 7-ball, the Swordpoint Blades' Stealth plays with the blue cue. Stealth didn't get much luck in his season debut, which required 11 shots and an error to wipe the table. The blue cue will go again with Harrison Specters star Sydney S. playing the 39th game of the day. Sydney S. couldn't get any control in her debut, unraveling after rattling the 5 out of the bottom left. She ended on 17 shots and no errors. The blue cue will stay up for Nibbles' Web City Spiders debut to wrap up this bunch. Nibbles couldn't make a good first impression with his new team, requiring 14 shots and three errors in his debut.

The ninth set begins with the Nighthawks' Cheddar doing 8-ball with the purple cue. Cheddar was not immune to the late-day slump, ending up with 26 shots and surprisingly no errors in her second appearance. Sleepy B. of the Archtown Arrows is up next with the red cue in 7-ball. Sleepy B. missed a couple of shots and took an error, ending with 12 shots in her opening game. The Stills' Bells will draw in for 8-ball using the blue cue. Bells struggled with solids, leading to a slow finish and two errors for illegal contact. Bells ended up with 26 shots in the game. More 8-ball awaits with the Gems' Salmo making a second appearance today, using the silver cue. Salmo took the early event lead with a clean 18 shots this time. Max brings back the green cue as the Golden Pilots veteran ends this group with 7-ball. Max wasn't able to get on track with three errors peppered throughout his 14 shots.

The last group of opening day begins with Infinity Torpedoes rookie Blaze using the purple cue. Blaze showed no hesitation to be creative, resulting in a solid 10 shots and one error in the game. Central Warriors captain Twilight steps in for the 47th game today, using the blue cue. Twilight couldn't get good positioning, pushed to the perimeter over 16 shots and two errors in a poor debut. The Southridge Defenders' Bianca is next, playing with the silver cue. Bianca scratched on the break in her season debut, but recovered to finish with 10 shots and just the one error. Stonebridge Wolves qualifying maestro Wild Thing will debut with the red cue this season. Wild Thing looked shaky at first, but a deflection off the 4 put the 7 in the bottom side to give him 6 shots and no errors. The Golden Pilots superstar Dusty ends the day with 7-ball with the green cue. Dusty had some early struggles, including two errors, but a 4-7 combination to the bottom left gave her 8 shots at the end.

This is just the first of 32 qualifying days over the course of the next 7-8 weeks. We'll be back at it tomorrow.

Tournament X Draft

Today, we'll complete the draft for Tournament X in the UPCL. The draft is live from IBM Cathedral in North Modernistic, where the hosting Nighthawks have just a single fifth round pick. Leading off...

The Web City Spiders have a compensatory first-round pick. The Spiders elected to go with a rookie to fill the opening left by Ted's retirement, bringing in the outgoing Omari Rashid. A tall and lean player, Omari is another player in the vein of Waluigi. The rookie brings sneaky power and precision in his game, but may struggle with more of the mental aspects. Omari represents Humanity Junior at the club level.

The Eastside Sharks are next with a compensatory first-round pick. The Sharks also dipped into the rookie pool by selecting Toki, a Reality first-year, to replace the retired Chelsea. Toki, the younger sister of last year's Midland Predators rookie Kitty, is a positive player with an optimistic outlook. Toki is expected to bring a vibrant attitude and a little fire to the rebuilding Sharks, who have two more picks today.

The Oceanside Waves have the third overall pick, a compensatory first-round selection. The Waves will replace the retired Jason V. with the rookie Rocky, who has committed to Youth Movement at the club level. Rocky has some of the highest expectations among rookies this season, an all-around strong player who is yet to develop strongly in any one area. He joins club-mate Celestia on a fairly inexperienced Waves team.

The Victoria Spurs possess the fourth overall pick, a compensatory first-round pick. The Spurs will go with experience, taking former Whitewater Shore Rosalina to replace the retired Mitchell. Rosalina joins her third team in four years in the league. The heady veteran has a lot of experience and will look to combine with Yekaterina as a crafty player on the skilled Spurs.

The Freedom Cascades are on the clock with a compensatory first-round selection. To replace longtime captain Jasmine, the Cascades select sophomore Andrew, formerly of the Central Warriors. Andrew had about as awful a rookie season as he could, leaving the Warriors no choice but to send him back into the draft pool. The Humanity Junior player has a powerful shot but will need to refine his skill for a Cascades team now entering its second chapter under Stinky's leadership.

The Maplewood Lumberjacks use the first of two compensatory picks to select Vladimir, formerly of the Stonebridge Wolves. The third-year Humanity Junior man fell out of favor in Juno's tight-run organization, and he'll get a second chance on a Lumberjacks team that needs to replace both Bryant and Gabe (retirement). Vladimir is a strong-and-silent type player that should fit well with the hard-working Lumberjacks, who are led by captain Diddley.

The Southridge Defenders have the seventh overall pick, a first-round compensatory pick. The Defenders took former North Modernistic Nighthawk Luigi, drawing boos from the home crowd. Luigi, a fourth-year Celebrity player, was never a popular Nighthawk, but stayed with the team at Peach's orders. Luigi will look for a fresh start alongside another familiar face -- the Defenders turned Wario into a top-20 player last season. He'll look to fill the gap left behind by Caitlin's retirement.

The Queens Flames are on the clock for a compensatory first-round pick. They'll fill out their roster with Pauline, formerly of the Capital City Sharpshooters. Pauline spent two years in Capital City, mostly with unimpressive results. Pauline will look to replace Hannah on the roster. The Celebrity player should get along well with teammate Mario, providing some chemistry outside of the Flames' big three star players.

The Atlantic Pirates have the ninth pick, a first-round compensatory selection. They'll fill the void left by Jason N.'s retirement with Reality rookie Buddy. The rookie is known to be a free-spirited type, which could make acclimating to Delila's strong leadership tough. Buddy won't have a lot of pressure on a defending City Cup champion squad, which should allow the rookie time to adjust to UPCL play.

The Pronger Tridents look to replace four-year star Zach with the 10th overall pick, a compensatory first-round selection. They tabbed former Web City Spider Avril with the task. Avril, a Celebrity player, has yet to find her groove in UPCL action, joining her third team in as many years. Avril has displayed potential at times, but she'll need to perform immediately with smart shot-selection under captain Precious.

The Archtown Arrows will fill out their roster with a compensatory first-round selection. The Arrows spent their pick on rookie Greg, a Humanity Junior signee. Greg will look to fill the gap left by A. Charlton, who retired after the 2019 season. Greg brings endless energy and humor to the Sally-led Arrows. Greg joins Klaus as the newcomers to the squad that finished middle of the pack.

The Lighton Prestige have a compensatory first-round pick to fill out their 2020 roster. The Prestige spent the 12th overall pick on Angelica, an Enterprise rookie. Angelica brings poise and calm to the team, mirroring the likes of long-term captain Acorn and star Spirit. The Prestige once again demonstrate their talent for finding players that fit their system, doing so this time to replace the retired Nicole.

Ending the first round, the Harrison Specters own a compensatory first-round pick. They'll look to replace the retired Lexi with the former Oceanside Wave Dewey with the 13th overall pick. Dewey was inconsistent over his three-year Waves tenure, with a poor 2019 being the final straw. Dewey has upside, and he'll serve in a supporting role on Twinkie II's Specters squad.

The Lumberjacks are back with the 14th overall pick, one of three second-round selections in the league this year. The Lumberjacks will replace the retired Gabe with Humanity Junior rookie Marissa. A fiery player with a flair for the dramatic, Marissa represents the total opposite of Vladimir, the Lumberjacks' earlier pick today. Marissa may need to reign in the creativity to fit in with her teammates, but the rookie should be a strong addition.

The Royal Crowns use their second-round compensatory pick to select rookie Sunshine with the 15th overall selection. Sunshine, an Enterprise commit, is a leader among the rookie class for his aggressive yet thoughtful playing style. He could be a future captain for the squad, but for now, Sunshine will look to help the Crowns offset the loss of the retired Cassie.

The Eastside Sharks are now on the clock for two picks. With the 16th overall pick, a compensatory selection acquired from the Pearl Surfers, the Sharks select rookie Lily. This is the second rookie the Sharks have taken to fill out what looks to be a young roster this year. Lily, like fellow draftee Toki, is a softer and more creative player. Lily will likely be more of a depth player than a young leader for the Sharks. The Sharks also selected Lily's brother, Maison, with the 17th overall pick. Maison, a third rookie, profiles as a tactically gifted player with a slightly strong propensity to lead. The Sharks will have three rookies and a sophomore under new captain Nightfur as they complete a wholesale change to their lineup.

The Southridge Defenders are on the clock for the 18th overall pick, acquired via trade from the Diamond Gems. The Defenders took former Pronger Trident Lize with the selection they gained by trading away Debby. Lize had an injury-plagued rookie year, but didn't show enough as a sophomore to be kept by the Tridents. She'll look for a fresh start with the Defenders, who have typically succeeded with young talent. Lize tends to play softer than expected due to her injury history.

The Web City Spiders open the fourth round by selecting Cubby with the 19th overall pick. Cubby, a journeyman from Forest SC, will join up with club-mate and new captain Jack on the squad. Cubby spent the last couple of years with the Eastside Sharks in a depth role, but will hope for a successful fresh start a bit farther north.

The Central Warriors will fill out their roster with the 20th overall pick. The Warriors picked up former Infinity Torpedo Mr. Snowman with the selection. Mr. Snowman will provide a veteran presence to the team, joining Graham as newcomers. Mr. Snowman likely has the least tough playing style on the team, but he's no pushover either. After a disappointing 2019, the Warriors will expect a lot of all players, new and old.

The Royal Crowns acquired the 21st overall pick in a trade with the Eastside Sharks. They'll use that pick to add Katelynn, a longtime league veteran most recently with the Diamond Gems. Katelynn was part of last year's three-team blockbuster, but she didn't stick on a rebuilding Gems squad. She'll add veteran depth and leadership that should provide a little creativity under Kayla's business-like captaincy.

The Stonebridge Wolves' have their natural fourth-round pick, selecting rookie Jane. The Humanity Junior commit will essentially replace club-mate Vladimir on the roster here. Jane projects as a supporting player with a knack for simple play, which fits right into Juno's vision for her team. Jane will look to have a good qualifying session, as the Wolves take pride in starting the year well.

The Diamond Gems get the 23rd pick to begin their rebuilding effort in earnest. They selected a journeyman, Salmo, with the pick. Salmo, mostly recently of the Southern Monarchs, didn't catch the train as his team shot to the top of the regular-season standings without him. The Gems will be his fourth team in as many years, and captain Shadow will not tolerate a lack of performance.

The Tysini Hummingbirds look to rebuild on the fly with the 24th overall pick, used on Outcast journeyman Hughbert, most recently of the Infinity Torpedoes. Hughbert has failed to make an impact at any of his stops in his career so far. He'll join a Hummingbirds team captained by Leandra, an intense player who has yet to truly unite a team. Hughbert projects as a direct replacement for the outgoing Paps.

The Infinity Torpedoes end the fourth round with the 25th pick. They selected rookie Blaze, a Youth Movement recruit. As the name suggests, Blaze brings a fiery attack to the Torpedoes. Blaze has a similar playing style to captain Smudge and star Fluffina, which makes him a good addition to the team attempting to push for the playoffs after 2019's narrow miss.

The Web City Spiders begin the fifth round with the 26th overall pick, selecting former Viewpoint Sound Meteors leader Nibbles. This addresses the lack of leadership around first-time captain Jack, as Nibbles is the leader of his Outcast club. The Spiders hope he's more than just good in that regard, as the inexperienced and largely unsuccessful squad tries to work back into competitiveness.

Another Northeastern team, the Everton Eagles, are next. They select Vincent, formerly of the Tysini Hummingbirds, to fill out their roster. An enigmatic pool player, Vincent can provide a challenge to the status quo of Goldy's leadership, which has come into question after the team missed the 2019 playoffs. Vincent, a third-year player on his third team, will hope he can get it right in the Northeast.

The Oceanside Waves look to fill out a fairly young roster with a second rookie, taking Humanity Junior recruit Megan with the 28th overall pick. Megan, like her cousin Sarah, provides energy and skill all in one. The Waves' rookie crop of Rocky and Megan should give the Waves a youthful feel as the Snuggle-led squad attempts to get back into contention.

The Stonebridge Wolves fill out their roster with the 29th overall pick, selecting former Everton Eagle Kirstin. A fifth-year veteran Kirstin brings a bit more spark to the roster than rookie fourth-round pick Jane. Kirstin may butt heads with captain Juno at times, but many will remember Kirstin was a fringe cut for the Eagles, who could be in line for a Ringer Award at the end of 2020.

The Todavía Stills look to add to a talenting but under-performing squad with the 30th pick. The Stills selected former Diamond Gems Pedey. This is a bargain pick for the Stills, as it was clear the veteran's time with the Gems was done by the end of the season. Pedey was never a bad player, but sometimes missed his potential. Even a good year could leave him as the Stills' fifth-best option, which could mean great things lie ahead for the Coastal powerhouse.

The Swordpoint Blades use their fifth-round pick to acquire Enterprise rookie Esmeralda. The most intriguing player in this year's rookie crop, Esmeralda also represents a bit of a risk for Snowball and co., any of whom could be in next year's draft if they have a down season. Esmeralda hasn't shown a knack for anything. She could end up being solid in all aspects or a disappointment. The Blades will hope for the former, as they've been treading water for years.

The Diamond Gems will fill out their roster with the 32nd overall pick. They'll turn to rookie Autumn for the task, electing to officially move on from former captain Smokey in the process. Autumn has the potential to be the most energetic player on a roster that also features Debby and Leonardo. The Humanity Junior rookie is going to be a big x-factor for the Gems, who really need to have a good year.

The Capital City Sharpshooters selected Paps with the 33rd overall pick. The former Hummingbird won't get back to his former team, as the Sharpshooters take a flier on the well-traveled veteran to fill out their roster. Paps has rarely been anything better than a No. 5 on his teams, and that seems to be the case again here as the Sharpshooters elected for a middle-of-the-road veteran.

The Tysini Hummingbirds complete their draft with the 34th overall pick. They'll pick up Sugar, the former Swordpoint Blade, in what's recently become a Southwestern shuffle. Sugar has played on many teams during her time; the Hummingbirds will be her fifth UPCL stop. The Hummingbirds elected to play it safe with Sugar and Hughbert as their draft additions, making the best of having just two late picks. Perhaps the team will show chemistry.

The Infinity Torpedoes conclude the Southwestern portion of the draft with the 35th overall pick, adding former Midland Predator Fuchsia to the fold. Fuchsia's three-year stay with the Predators started well and ended horribly, and she was a victim of the need to shake things up. Fuchsia has put in good efforts before and shouldn't be overlooked, as she'll likely compose the veteran depth with Shelley on the roster.

The Whitewater Shores are on the clock with the 36th overall pick. Their pick will strike the deepest, a huge bargain in adding former Diamond Gems captain Smokey. Under Smokey, the Gems and Shores engaged in some of the fiercest battles in the Bloodbath Derby. He'll now get to taste the rivalry from the other side, replacing Rosalina, who also made the switch between the two teams two years ago. Smokey's addition makes the Shores a team to watch in 2020.

It's been a long wait, but the home fans finally get to see the North Modernistic Nighthawks make their draft pick. At 37th overall, they selected former Eastside Shark Gizmo. This will be the Reality veteran's third team in his career. The Nighthawks can tout the reclamation effort on Lionel from last year as their ability to get more out of players. Gizmo replaces Luigi on the roster.

The Midland Predators fill out their roster with the 38th selection. They added former Web City Spider Chicky Phil to the squad. Chicky Phil has often found himself on the fringe of staying with team, but he was caught up in the Spiders' rebuild in 2019. He's a similar player to Fuchsia, who he replaced on the Predators roster, in that both don't typically separate themselves from the field.

The Viewpoint Sound Meteors look to add depth to their roster with the 39th overall pick. They selected former Stonebridge Wolf Cobalt to achieve that goal. Cobalt spent three years with the Wolves, often acting as Juno's second-in-command in the tightly-run organization. Life with the Meteors will be a bit more relaxed for Cobalt, who will look to improve on what club-mate Nibbles brought last year before his exit.

The Pronger Tridents' second pick of the day is the 40th overall, and the last true choice. The Tridents chose to go with a veteran, selecting former Todavía Still Prism here. Prism is on her third team in four years, as the Outcast veteran has struggled to perform consistently. The Tridents now have three Outcast players on their roster, as well as captain Precious and first-round selection Avril heading into 2020 with some question marks.

The Southern Monarchs ended up with rookie Molly with the 41st and final pick of the Tournament X draft. Molly, the sixth and final Enterprise rookie to be taken, will have a chip on her shoulder for being the last pick. Molly brings energy and excitement that may need to be refined into solid play, but a veteran Monarchs team will give her room to grow as she can only be a pleasant surprise based on her draft position.

For all live-action #UPCL needs, check out the official Twitter feed @UnitedPCL. The upcoming schedule is mostly non-website related. We'll be working on administrative/behind-the-scenes stuff in the next few days to prepare for the start of Qualifiers, likely on Monday.

Tournament X Pre-draft Trades

Prior to the start of the UPCL 2020 Draft, there were a number of trades completed. Here they are, by team.

The Eastside Sharks were the busiest team on trading day, flipping long-time captain Graham to the Central Warriors in exchange for Wings. The Sharks didn't keep Wings for long, sending him to the Pearl Surfers for a second-round pick (16th overall). The Sharks then sent their fourth-round pick (21st overall) to the Royal Crowns in exchange for Nightfur, who will be the Sharks' new captain. Nightfur spent five years with the Crowns, posting records of 174-177 in games and 45-40 in series. She accumulated three medals for her performance during her stint.

The Central Warriors acquired Graham from the Eastside Sharks in exchange for Wings. Graham spent six years with the Sharks, serving as captain in most of them. The veteran went 222-202 in games and 50-49 in series, and he earned one medal as a Shark. His performance had declined over the last three years, resulting in wholesale changes. He now joins good friend Dustin to force a dangerous trio leading the Warriors.

The Pearl Surfers acquired Wings from the Eastside Sharks as part of a three-team trade. This is Wings' second stint with the Surfers after an unsuccessful two-year run as a Warrior. Wings previously spent five years with the Surfers -- his first three were the best of his UPCL career, and he'll hope to recapture that magic with a strong squad that also features his brother, Bright.

The Royal Crowns acquired the 21st overall pick from the Eastside Sharks for Nightfur. The Crowns now have two drafts picks in the first four rounds as they look to rebuild around their new captain, Kayla.

The Diamond Gems acquired former Southridge Defenders captain Debby in exchange for a third-round pick. Debby spent her first five seasons with the Defenders, serving as captain of a young, draft-built squad that also parted ways with the retiring Caitlin in the offseason. Debby will now play a supporting role on a Gems team that sees its rebuild stretch into a second year. Debby went 139-146 in games and 36-41 in series with the Defenders. The Gems have two remaining picks to fill out their roster behind Shadow and Leonardo for the upcoming season.

The Southridge Defenders acquired a third-round pick (18th overall) in exchange for longtime captain Debby. The Defenders will go in a new direction with Caitlin and Debby's departures, with Stephanie named the new captain. With two picks in the first three rounds, the draft-proven side will hope to make this a rebuild on the fly.

The Archtown Arrows acquired Klaus from the Atlantic Pirates in exchange for Dusky. The fourth-year Outcast veteran spent his first three years as a Pirate, posting a 80-84 record in games and a 23-25 record in series. Klaus' 2019 was particularly bad, leading to the swap between the A-Line rivals featuring struggling players. The Arrows hope Klaus can return to the form he showed in his first two years. The Arrows also have a first-round pick to fill out their roster.

The Atlantic Pirates acquired Dusky from the Archtown Arrows in exchange for Klaus. Dusky spent six years with the Arrows after a debut with the Harrison Specters in 2012. During her Archtown career, the Youth Movement veteran went 189-192 in games and 47-48 in series with just one top-flight medal in 2017. Dusky finished under .400 in consecutive seasons, but the Pirates are willing to take a chance on her in hopes that she just needs a change of scenery. The Pirates will add a first-round pick on draft day to complete their 2020 lineup.

That's all for UPCL trades in 2020. The Draft is live from North Modernistic in one hour.