Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 7

We're ready to complete the first week of qualifying, as 9-ball should take center stage while 10-ball becomes eligible to be played. Leading off in what's projected to be a split-session day...

Tysini Hummingbirds star Charli plays 8-ball with the green cue. Charli looked lost early in her appearance, then settled in for 21 shots and no errors. Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy is next with the silver cue in hand for 9-ball. Ms. Puppy didn't get much success, taking two early errors for scratches before ending on 14 shots. Westside Rockers captain Misty is next with the green cue in hand for 9-ball. Misty couldn't gain control until she already had two errors on her ledger, forcing her up to 15 shots even with a good finish. Terrace City Knights veteran Oreo is fourth to shoot today, using the blue cue for 9-ball. Oreo made the 2 and the 9 on the break, but also scratched for her lone error. She finished off the rack in 10 shots. Diamond Gems captain Shadow activates the purple cue for 8-ball. Shadow kept clear of any errors, but ended up taking 22 shots in a decent showing. 

Group two kicks off with Viewpoint Sound Meteors veteran Cobalt shooting 8-ball with the blue cue. Cobalt showed strong command to end at 19 shots with no errors. The seventh game of the day goes to Golden Pilots star Dusty, who uses the green cue in 9-ball. Dusty scratched on the break and didn't tighten up with three total errors in 18 frustrating shots. Everton Eagles veteran Puff III is next with the red cue in 8-ball. Puff III had an error early on, but surged through the middle and closed on 19 shots. Pronger Tridents captain Precious steps in to play 9-ball with the silver cue. Precious felt good from start to finish, taking only 12 shots and no errors in this outing. Midland Predators veteran Chicky Phil closes the set with the green cue in hand for 9-ball. Chicky Phil took no errors in this appearance, needing only 10 shots to clear the table. 

The third group gets going as Atlantic Pirates sophomore Buddy plays 9-ball with the blue cue. Buddy took 11 shots and one error, but that error was a scratch that saw the cue ball fly into the pocket. Freedom Cascades captain Stinky is next, shooting 9-ball with the silver cue. Stinky was a bit sporadic at times, but he had no errors among his 14 shots to finish the effort. Modernistic Union newcomer Daisy has the red cue in hand for 9-ball. Daisy was fantastic with a pair on the break and just 7 shots needed to clear the table with no errors. Stonebridge Wolves captain Juno keeps the red cue in action for 8-ball. Juno was confident from the start and took no errors as she completed the effort in 19 shots. Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina ends the batch with 9-ball and the purple cue. Yekaterina scratched early and faltered late, ending on 13 shots with one error. 

The fourth bunch opens with Todavía Stills captain Easter shooting 9-ball with the silver cue. Easter took an early error for missed contact, but settled in for a reasonable 13 shots. North Modernistic Nighthawks veteran Lionel takes the 17th game of the day, using the blue cue in 8-ball. Lionel had an early error for a scratch, but didn't let it bother him as he finished with 21 shots. Moving along, Diamond Gems veteran Salmo also plays 8-ball, but he'll use the red cue. Salmo took an error for a scratch on the break, but played with confidence to close on 21 shots. A season debut awaits as the Victoria Spurs captain Spice uses the blue cue for 7-ball. Spice started slowly but took no errors in her 11 shots. At the back of the group, Freedom Cascades third-year Andrew uses the purple cue for 8-ball. Andrew started slow, but he kicked the 8 off a rail and into the top side and used that momentum to surge to 19 shots and no errors. 

Harrison Specters newcomer Esmeralda also uses the purple cue for 8-ball. Esmeralda made a pair on the break and only needed 18 shots with one error because of a cautious finish. Infinity Torpedoes star Fuchsia draws in for 9-ball with the blue cue. Fuchsia had no control early on, taking two errors and continuing her struggles to 20 shots in the end. More 9-ball sees Pacific Volcanoes mainstay Ms. Kitty using the red cue. Ms. Kitty had her share of struggles but got through it fast with 12 shots and one error. Going 24th today, Terrace City Knights captain Kiwi uses the red cue in 8-ball. Kiwi had an error early on and didn't get many runs, but closed with 22 shots. At today's halfway point, Royal Crowns rookie Kacey uses the red cue for 9-ball. Kacey disappointed in the middle of her game, needing one error and 17 shots to finish. 

The sixth set starts as Whitewater Shores rookie Rachel uses the silver cue in 9-ball. Rachel made a pair on the break, but she took an error on a failed jump and skidded to 14 shots. Modernistic Union veteran Puff I plays 8-ball with the green cue next. Puff I had a bad break, and her attempts to disperse the cluster led to the 8 falling prematurely to give her five errors. She escaped with a decent 23 shots. Queens Flames veteran Mario uses the purple cue as he steps in for 9-ball. Mario was fast but sloppy, taking two errors for scratches among his 11 shots, which ended with the 7-9 combination to the bottom right. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Summer is up with the green cue in 9-ball. Summer had a good break but bad positioning, which forced her into one error and 14 shots for the game. The 30th player called today is Stonebridge Wolves sophomore Jane, who also plays 9-ball with the green cue. Jane had a little of everything in her game with four balls potted on the break, a double-error on the next shot, and a hot finish at 10 shots. 

After the break, Infinity Torpedoes captain Smudge shoots 9-ball with the silver cue. Smudge nearly had a rough start, but pulled it back to finish in 10 shots with no errors. Puff II will make her Harrison Specters debut next, using the purple cue in 7-ball. Puff II took a couple of errors and faltered to 13 shots after she couldn't get her plays to work. Web City Spiders newcomer Wild Thing is ready to go with the blue cue in 8-ball. Wild Thing lived up to his name, taking four errors among 25 shots in a brutal performance. Lighton Prestige captain Acorn goes 34th today with the red cue in hand for 9-ball. Acorn scratched early in the appearance but recovered to close at 12 shots. The red cue remains active as Westside Rockers veteran Chimpy closes the group in 8-ball. Chimpy was unlucky to go empty on the break, but he had 17 shots and no errors for the game. 

The eighth group begins with Southern Monarchs newcomer Lorde shooting 8-ball with the silver cue. Lorde was efficient and precise, racking up only 15 shots and no errors in the game. Oceanside Waves sophomore Rocky is up in 8-ball for today's 37th game, using the green cue. Rocky maintained his confidence throughout the appearance, ending in 18 shots with no errors. Queens Flames star Violetta keeps the green cue active for another 8-ball game. Violetta scratched late in the game, but she had just two errors in 23 shots. Infinity Torpedoes veteran Shelley is ready to make her season debut, using the purple cue for 7-ball. Shelley was fairly strong with a pair on the break and smart plays to end in 7 shots. Rounding out the set, Central Warriors veteran Graham uses the purple cue for 8-ball. Graham had some struggles at times, taking one error in 23 shots. 

Group nine is fronted by Royal Crowns captain Kayla, who makes her season debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Kayla took a couple of errors but finished with a sloppy 10 shots. Boston Swifts veteran Tigerette is ready to go in 8-ball with the silver cue. Tigerette had to take her time after a hot start, finishing with two errors in 21 shots. Archtown Arrows newcomer Cubby keeps the silver cue active as he plays 9-ball. Cubby lacked command early on and struggled to 16 shots, taking one late error as a little more of an insult. Swordpoint Blades veteran Bandit goes 44th today, using the purple cue for 9-ball. Bandit made use of his two early errors, shortening the rack enough to help him finish at 11 shots. Wrapping up the group, North Modernistic Nighthawks veteran Gizmo shoots 8-ball with the green cue. Gizmo finished with a reasonable 21 shots and no errors in a good performance. 

Zenith Skywatchers enforcer Nightfur leads the last group with the green cue in hand for 8-ball. Nightfur was a little loose to start and ended up with a pair of errors in 24 shots. Archtown Arrows captain Sally gets called to play 9-ball with the blue cue next. Sally was terrible, taking four errors and needing 22 shots to get through the rack. Paps of the Zenith Skywatchers goes 48th today, using the purple cue in 8-ball. Paps kept things clean in this appearance with no errors in his 22 shots. Southridge Defenders captain Bianca steps in with the silver cue for 8-ball. Bianca had an error early on but bounced back to close at 19 shots. Today's finale is the season debut for Lighton Prestige sophomore Angelica, who uses the silver cue in 7-ball. Angelica scratched for her lone error early, but surged to end with 8 shots. 

With 10-ball not activated today, the start dates for future events slides by a day. Expect to see it tomorrow along with plenty of 8-ball and 9-ball.

Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 6

What's been a difficult opening stretch to qualifying will look for a turnaround on Day 6. First up...

Southridge Defenders veteran Wario shoots 8-ball with the red cue. Wario was as steady as ever in this outing, taking no errors in his 20 shots for a good game. Whitewater Shores mainstay Twinkie III will also use the red cue in 8-ball. A slower start didn't make things easy on Twinkie III, who ended up with one error for a stick foul in her 23 shots. The 3rd game of the day features Pronger Tridents star Spot playing 7-ball with the green cue. Spot made a ball on the break but was only average after that with 11 shots and no errors. Capital City Sharpshooters rookie Ellie is next, taking up the silver cue for 8-ball. Ellie got her five errors the hard way, with multiple scratches and missed contacts in her 26 shots. At the back of the group, the Diamond Gems' Debby makes her season debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Debby had nowhere to go after the break, taking her lone error early before finishing well at 9 shots. 

Group two starts with Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. shooting 9-ball with the green cue. Taylor M. took a pair of errors in her appearance, but still did alright with 13 shots. Tysini Hummingbirds breakout star Sugar is back with the silver cue for 8-ball. Sugar scratched on the break and then struggled at times in the game. She ended on 23 shots, after rattling the 8 out of the bottom right after a safe set-up play. Golden Pilots veteran Sparkles is next with the red cue in 8-ball. Sparkles showed control, a rarity in these qualifiers, as she posted 19 shots and no errors. Todavía Stills star Ruby gets the 9th game of the day, using the blue cue in 9-ball. Ruby kept herself solid mechanically, doing enough to end in 13 shots with no errors. Closing the group, Zenith Skywatchers veteran Bells uses the purple cue in 8-ball. Bells almost had a good performance, but two late errors pushed her to 25 shots. 

Lighton Prestige star Spirit looks to get herself back on track with the blue cue in hand for 9-ball. Spirit took an early error on illegal contact, but a deflection off the 2 helped her sink the 9 at the bottom left to end on 7 shots. Omari is next up, making his Zenith Skywatchers debut with the red cue in 7-ball. Omari was lucky to avoid errors in this appearance, but he still needed 14 shots to finish it. Archtown Arrows veteran Sleepy B. goes 13th today, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Sleepy B. made a pair on the break and never slowed down, closing at 16 shots with no errors. More 8-ball follows as Lighton Prestige star Citrus uses the green cue. Citrus struggled from the start, and two errors in the middle just made it worse as she finished in 27 shots. The batch ends with Boston Swifts star Gradley using the purple cue in 9-ball. Gradley had a great start, then squandered it with a rough sequence on the 5. He ended up with 14 shots and one error for the game. 

Batch four kicks off with Pearl Surfers co-captain Watermelon shooting 9-ball with the red cue. Watermelon also did well early, but two errors and bad positioning put her at 15 shots. Boston Swifts captain Sweetheart draws in for 8-ball with the blue cue. Sweetheart ripped a pair down on the break and cruised through stripes with no issues. She slowed on solids but finished with 16 shots and no errors. Oceanside Waves new captain Celestia takes the purple cue up for 7-ball in her first game in the new role. It was a rough start for the captain, as Celestia took three errors to finish at 13 shots. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Twinkie I gets the next game, using the blue cue for 8-ball. Twinkie I rattled off a lot of successful shots early on and then finished with 18 shots and no errors. The 20th player of the day is Bright of the Pearl Surfers playing 9-ball with the green cue. Bright had an explosive break but didn't benefit from it, needing 16 shots with one error to finish. 

The fifth group opens as Whitewater Shores veteran Marsell uses the blue cue in 7-ball. Marsell struggled with positioning, needing 16 shots and two errors to complete his season debut. Another 7-ball game is next, as Midland Predators captain Shawn plays with the purple cue. Shawn buried a pair on the break, including the 7 in the bottom side to end on 0 shots and zero errors. With the 23rd game today, Swordpoint Blades newcomer Stephanie keeps the purple cue active in 8-ball. Stephanie held her own over 21 shots, taking no errors for a solid performance. Pearl Surfers co-captain Neopolitan also uses the purple cue as she takes to the table for 9-ball. Neopolitan didn't have anything special in this appearance, taking 16 shots with one error. At the halfway mark, Archtown Arrows veteran Hoppy is ready to go in 8-ball with the red cue. Hoppy probably got a little lucky late in her game, avoiding errors and getting a couple of favorable bounces to close on 18 shots. 

The sixth set leads off with Pronger Tridents veteran Avril using the blue cue for 9-ball. A hot stretch in the middle didn't help when Avril had slow play early and late, taking one error among 15 shots. Southern Monarchs sophomore Molly keeps the blue cue active for 8-ball. Molly had a fantastic start, but wasted it with tons of late misses, pushing her to 22 shots with no errors. Stonebridge Wolves strongman Hershey also has the blue cue up, making his season debut in 7-ball. Hershey did well despite a scratch on the break, which was his lone error in 9 shots. The 29th player drawn today is Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy, who uses the blue cue in 8-ball. Shaggy had no trouble with control, working her way to finish at 17 shots and no errors. Closing the group, Atlantic Pirates veteran Dusky shoots 9-ball with the green cue. Dusky was patient at times and aggressive at others, good enough to post 13 shots with one error. 

Set seven gets going as Todavía Stills star Sierra plays 9-ball with the blue cue. Sierra skidded from the start and never got on track, ending with 18 shots and three errors, including a stick foul. Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot goes next, playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Hoot showed total control after a shaky start, finishing on 18 shots and no errors in a great outing. Pacific Volcanoes captain Starlight keeps the purple cue active for 9-ball in today's 33rd game. Starlight couldn't get anything to go her way early on, but a strong finish salvaged the game at 18 shots with one error. Next up, a season debut for Eastside Sharks sophomore Lily sees her use the green cue in 7-ball. Lily wasn't great at the end, taking one error to fade to 10 shots in a standard effort. Wrapping up the group, Southridge Defenders newcomer Roxy shoots 8-ball with the silver cue. Roxy took the shots she was given, and it only took 19 of them to finish with no errors. 

Bunch eight begins as Capital City Sharpshooters captain Chris plays 8-ball with the red cue. Chris started well, but the last ball gave him trouble as he ballooned to 20 shots with no errors. The 37th player called today is Todavía Stills veteran Pedey, who will use the purple cue in 8-ball. Pedey had some iffy moments, but he contained it well to close on 20 shots and no errors. More 8-ball is on the way as Southridge Defenders newcomer plays it with the green cue. Stripes limited her mistakes effectively, cruising to 18 shots with no errors in this outing. Midland Predators third-year Kitty also draws in for 8-ball, and she'll use the purple cue. Kitty made her mark fairly quickly, also finishing on 18 shots but taking one error for an early scratch. Oceanside Waves sophomore Megan rounds out the group with the green cue in 8-ball. Megan was too cautious early and late in her appearance, taking 22 shots and no errors to finish. 

The 41st game today goes to Apex Wonders veteran Mr. Snowman, who shoots 8-ball with the red cue. Mr. Snowman delivered the standout performance of the event, taking just 13 shots and no errors in what will nearly guarantee him a top seed. After that, Maplewood Lumberjacks star Whiskers keeps the red cue active for 8-ball. Whiskers was nearly as good, missing just once as she finished with 15 shots and no errors. Victoria Spurs veteran Sage enters the fray with the blue cue in 7-ball. Sage was alright with 12 shots and one error in her season debut, struggling early before a good finish. Queens Flames veteran Briana keeps the blue cue active for 9-ball. Briana smashed three balls in on the break, but luck quickly turned as she skidded to 14 shots with no errors. Royal Crowns sophomore Sunshine closes the group with the silver cue in hand for 8-ball. Sunshine didn't have much fun in his second appearance of the year, needing 27 shots and one error to get through it. 

The final group commences as Central Warriors newcomer Klaus uses the silver cue for 9-ball. Klaus was effective with a ball on the break, but some questionable choices led him to 14 shots and no errors. More 9-ball sees Atlantic Pirates captain Delila use the blue cue. Delila couldn't surge enough late in the game to get a better score, settling for 14 shots and no errors. The 48th game of the day also comes in 9-ball, with Diamond Gems strongman Leonardo taking the stage with the blue cue. Leonardo made an absolute mess by not focusing early on, which led to him taking 17 shots and one error. A season debut for the Commerce Tradewinds' Rosemary is next, as she uses the red cue in 7-ball. Rosemary scratched on the break and nearly butchered her finish, but closed on 10 shots with only one error. That was the red cue's last turn in the event. Bringing up the rear today, Apex Wonders enforcer Midnight makes her debut with the team in 7-ball with the green cue. Midnight handled business wonderfully, no pun intended, with only 7 shots and no errors in her season debut. 

That's all for today. With improved play in 8-ball, the league's focus will likely shift towards 9-ball tomorrow.

Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 5

We're set to go on the fifth day of qualifiers, with three events now eligible to be played. Leading off...

Royal Crowns veteran Brownie shoots 8-ball with the red cue. Brownie started off fine and then lost control when she was left with just the 2 on solids. The downfall was brutal, as she closed with 27 shots and two errors. Commerce Tradewinds star Solaris steps in for 8-ball with the blue cue. Solaris was on track for a great game, but three errors near the end sank him to a decidedly average 22 shots. The first player to draw into 9-ball will be Golden Pilots veteran Strut, who uses the silver cue. Strut did quite well to finish quickly with a banked 4-9 combination to the top left, giving him 6 shots and no errors. Central Warriors star Dustin will also go for 9-ball, using the green cue. Dustin finished quickly, deflecting off the 2 to take the 9 at the top left in 5 shots and no errors. Back to 8-ball, where Terrace City Knights star Jennifer plays with the red cue. Jennifer was doing just fine, but missed a couple of late shots, and then scratched as she sank the 8. That resulted in her adding six errors in 27 shots. 

The 6th game today belongs to the Terrace City Knights' Oreo as she shoots 8-ball with the green cue. Oreo kept the cue ball where it needed to be, ending in 20 shots with no errors. Stonebridge Wolves sophomore Jane draws in with the blue cue in 8-ball. Jane was efficient early on, although a couple of errors cost her a bit as she finished in 21 shots. Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley makes his season debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Diddley took a safe approach near the end of the game, finishing on 10 shots and no errors. Another season debut sees the Modernistic Union sophomore Maggie use the blue cue in 7-ball. Maggie couldn't get anything going early, spiraling to 18 shots with one error. Pearl Surfers veteran Wings ends the group with the silver cue in 8-ball. Wings screwed up early with the 8 going down on his first shot after the break, so he took five errors but still closed the game in only 20 shots. 

After the lunch break, Golden Pilots star Dusty uses the red cue 8-ball. Dusty skidded from the start and couldn't get on track before illegally sinking the 8. She had five errors in 29 shots. Another Pilot follows as Max plays 8-ball with the silver cue. Max fared no better, requiring 30 shots with three errors to get through his appearance. Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina will try 8-ball next, using the green cue. Yekaterina was accurate nearly every time, but still took one error for illegal contact among her 17 shots. Westside Rockers captain Misty uses the blue cue in 8-ball for the 14th game of the day. Misty did alright at first, then took a pair of errors and slipped to 26 shots as the league's taking a hard lesson in regression today. Central Warriors captain Twilight will close the batch with the purple cue in hand for 7-ball. Twilight kept it clean with no errors, no small feat on a day like this, while closing in a modest 11 shots. 

Group four gets going with Lighton Prestige captain Acorn using the red cue in 8-ball. Acorn was poised and creative enough to work well on insurance plan plays, finishing at 18 shots and no errors. Harrison Specters newcomer Esmeralda is next, picking up the silver cue for 7-ball. Esmeralda didn't get much for positioning, taking one error in 13 shots as she struggled throughout the game. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Summer takes the 18th game today, using the blue cue for 8-ball. Summer was another victim of the 5-error rule, depositing the 8 prematurely en route to score of 27 shots. Another 8-ball game with the blue cue sees Southridge Defenders rookie Ingrid step up to the table. Ingrid had historic pace early on, but slowed down to just good in the end, closing with 18 shots and no errors. Golden Pilots captain Valencia keeps the blue cue playing 8-ball. Valencia struggled early on, needing 25 shots with two errors to get through the appearance. 

The fifth batch kicks off with Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Josie using the red cue in 8-ball. Josie took a scratch on the break, her lone error as she powered through 21 shots. Zenith Skywatchers captain Blizzard is next, taking up the green cue for 8-ball. Blizzard used a stabilizer grip to attack early on, then loosened up later as she closed in 19 shots with no errors. Apex Wonders veteran Cowzart goes next, staying in 8-ball with the blue cue. Cowzart also kept his cool pretty well, avoiding errors in 19 shots to get a good result. Moving along, Infinity Torpedoes captain Smudge plays 8-ball with the red cue. Smudge couldn't get things to line up favorably, taking just one error but also 29 shots in the appearance. Today's 25th game brings us mercifully to halfway done with the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Princess using the red cue in 7-ball. Princess got the 4 and the 7 to drop in the bottom side on the break to end with 0 shots and zero errors, a rare positive result. 

Another Meteor starts group six as Cobalt uses the silver cue in 7-ball. Something's in the Sound water, as Cobalt rocketed the 7 to the top right on his break, also closing at 0 shots and zero errors. Back in 8-ball, Freedom Cascades captain Stinky uses the blue cue. Stinky took an error at one point for a scratch, but he was strong and effective to finish at 20 shots. Victoria Spurs veteran Rosalina also plays 8-ball, this time with the red cue. Rosalina brought the early pace, but no control over the cue ball led to three errors in 27 shots. Eastside Sharks sophomore Maison picks up the purple cue for his 8-ball appearance. Maison's overall shooting was fine, but three brutally bad errors scarred the effort at 24 shots. Commerce Tradewinds newcomer Luigi will take a big risk in using the red cue for 8-ball to wrap up this group. Luigi got away relatively unharmed, taking one error on his last shot to close with 23 shots in the game. 

Set seven opens with the Freedom Cascades strongman Nikolai using the red cue in 7-ball. Nikolai didn't take any errors, but he was frustrated with his play anyway, as he ended the game with 12 shots. Kodiak gets the 32nd game today, making his Web City Spiders debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Kodiak showed great control with only 8 shots and no errors in his first appearance with his new team. Queens Flames captain Crystal keeps the silver cue active for 8-ball. Crystal did well but wavered in her control just enough at the end to close with 23 shots and no errors in an average outing. Westside Rockers rookie Carly is next with the purple cue in hand for 8-ball. Carly will be satisfied with keeping a clean performance this time, and ending in 22 shots isn't too bad either. Rounding out the bunch, the purple cue goes again in 8-ball with Boston Swifts veteran Ice Cream. A slow start gave way to a fantastic run to finish things at 20 shots with no errors. 

The eighth group is underway as the Queens Flames' Mario shoots 8-ball with the purple cue. Mario had a couple of errors in his game, but he made up for it with pace to end at 20 shots. Today's 37th player is Terrace City Knights rookie Anna, who shoots 7-ball with the red cue in her career debut. She couldn't ask for a better start, as the 7 wedged its way to the top on the break to give Anna 0 shots and zero errors. Swordpoint Blades captain Dreamy brings the purple cue back to the table in 8-ball. Dreamy kept free from errors and got creative at the end to close with 20 shots in a redemptive effort. The blue cue is back in 8-ball next, as the Eastside Sharks' Rudolph gets drawn. Rudolph did alright, as he didn't take any errors, but slow shooting led to him ending on 24 shots. Diamond Gems veteran Salmo keeps the blue cue active in 7-ball at the end of the group. Salmo took a gamble and failed, taking a double-error early on before closing at 12 shots. 

Group nine begins with Lighton Prestige veteran Shiny shooting 9-ball with the silver cue. Shiny didn't get much traction on her shots, needing 16 shots with one error to complete the outing. Pacific Volcanoes mainstay Ms. Kitty is next up, using the red cue in 8-ball. Ms. Kitty struggled early on and took one error before closing well at 24 shots. The red cue stays active as Zenith Skywatchers veteran Nightfur debuts with the team in 7-ball. Nightfur was efficient early on, but bad positioning at the end pushed her to 10 shots and no errors. Central Warriors star Noelle gets the 44th game today, shooting 8-ball with the silver cue. Noelle controlled play well and kept things moving smoothly to finish with 20 shots and no errors. Modernistic Union veteran Sydney C. closes the batch with the red cue in hand for 8-ball. Sydney C. was sharp initially but took one error for a scratch. She kept her play on track and ended at 21 shots. 

The final group commences with the red cue staying up for 8-ball with Pronger Tridents captain Precious. A strong start didn't hold up, and Precious took a lone error late for missed contact before ending on 23 shots. Smokey gets his Pacific Volcanoes debut next, using the blue cue in 7-ball. Smokey took an early error for a scratch on the break, but his positioning play allowed him to end in 9 shots anyway. Todavía Stills captain Easter goes 48th today, using the green cue for 8-ball. Easter was excellent from the start of the game, taking only 17 shots and no errors with a late slowdown. Another 8-ball game with the green cue sees Infinity Torpedoes star Fuchsia active. Fuchsia lacked control early on but clamped down late for 22 shots and no errors in the game. The day ends with Everton Eagles star Cleo using the red cue in 8-ball. Cleo wasn't perfect at all, but she took no errors and finished with 23 shots. 

With a better second half of the day, there's hope tomorrow's qualifiers will continue a positive trend.

Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 4

We're looking to get the qualifying scores back on track with 8-ball expected to leapfrog 7-ball in popularity today. First up...

Royal Crowns star Jake uses the green cue to make his season debut in 7-ball. Jake got the day off to a wonderful start, potting a pair on the break and adding the 1-7 combination to the top side to finish with 1 shot and no errors. Bianca will begin her tenure as Southridge Defenders captain by using the green cue in 7-ball as well. Bianca struggled, gambling that she could get a combo to bail her out. She didn't, taking 15 shots and one error in the game. The first 8-ball outing today goes to the Queens Flames' Pauline, who will use the red cue. Pauline flirted with danger, but making a pair on the break helped her finish at 19 shots and no errors. More 8-ball follows as Capital City Sharpshooters rookie Kelsea appears with the blue cue. Kelsea nearly had it all right in her game, but sank the 8 illegally and took the five-error penalty to finish at 25 shots. The group closes with Web City Spiders veteran Nibbles trying 7-ball with the red cue. Nibbles had a decent showing, taking one error on a scratch and closing at 11 shots. 

Group two is underway with Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot using the green cue in 7-ball. Hoot started a little too slow and needed 12 shots with no errors to complete the outing. Paps will play his Zenith Skywatchers debut next, using the silver cue in 7-ball. Paps finished early, ending on 7 shots and no errors as he double-potted the 4 to the top right and the 7 to the top left. The 8th game of the day is Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. using the purple cue for 8-ball. Taylor M. was strong early on, dominating on stripes, but solids slowed her down to 21 shots and no errors. The purple cue stays active as Everton Eagles veteran Vincent plays 7-ball. Vincent was creative and strong, but took an early error for a scratch that pushed him to 10 shots. Pronger Tridents veteran Prism ends the batch with the red cue in hand for 8-ball. Prism scratched and made three balls on the break, which turned out just fine as she cruised to the finish at 19 shots. 

The third bunch starts with Pearl Surfers veteran Boots using the red cue in 7-ball. Boots tried a few complex shots, but ended up with an error before sending the 5-7 combination to the bottom right to end on 11 shots. More 7-ball follows with Infinity Torpedoes star Fluffina using the silver cue. Fluffina started well but slipped up in the middle and took an error on a failed jump shot. She finished with 12 shots in the game. North Modernistic Nighthawks star Gal draws in for the 13th game, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Gal was doing fine despite rough positioning, but three late errors sank her to 27 shots. Atlantic Pirates veteran Steven will also shoot 8-ball, using the blue cue. Steven was productive on his early shots and weathered one error for illegal contact to close at 20 shots. At the back of the group, Victoria Spurs veteran Strawberry uses the red cue in 7-ball. Strawberry did fairly well in her game, needing only 8 shots with no errors. 

Capital City Sharpshooters mainstay Missy gets her season debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Missy faltered with a pair of scratches among her 12 shots to get her season off to a rough start. Swordpoint Blades veteran Bandit plays 17th today, picking up the blue cue for 8-ball. Loose play continued with Bandit, who took two errors for scratches in his otherwise strong 21 shots. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Leonette brings the green cue to action in 8-ball. Leonette came out of her game fuming over four errors, which forced her to take 23 shots to finish the effort. The green cue remains active as North Modernistic Nighthawks enforcer Cheddar shoots 7-ball. Cheddar took an error in the middle but still finished in 8 shots for a good game. Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II closes the group in 8-ball with the silver cue. Twinkie II started with pace but lost control with a pair of errors at the end, with 28 shots on her ledger at the end. 

Group five opens as Boston Swifts star Gradley uses the purple cue in 8-ball. Gradley was explosive on offense early on and avoided errors to finish in 20 shots. Wild Thing is up for his Web City Spiders debut, using the silver cue in 7-ball. Wild Thing made the right moves, ending in 3 shots and no errors with a 3-7 combination to the bottom left. Infinity Torpedoes sophomore Blaze is next with the blue cue in 8-ball. Blaze did well in this outing, but he had a late error for missed contact that stuck him at 20 shots. The blue cue goes again in 8-ball for the 24th game of the day as the Central Warriors newcomer Klaus steps up. Klaus scratched on a poor break, but navigated a clustered rack pretty well to exit the game in 21 shots. The Queens Flames' Briana keeps the blue cue going in 8-ball to bring the day to half-completion. Briana couldn't string shots together well enough in this appearance, needing 23 shots with no errors to finish. 

The sixth set gets going with Midland Predators third-year Kitty shooting 7-ball with the blue cue. Kitty didn't appreciate taking an early error for missed contact, responding with a burst of offense to end in 7 shots. The silver cue comes back for 8-ball with Diamond Gems veteran Leonardo. A great start was overshadowed by him illegally sinking the 8 near the end with a scratch. Out of anger, he fouled on the last shot too, taking seven errors in 27 shots. Eastisde Sharks sophomore Toki is next, playing 7-ball with the silver cue in his season debut. Toki was excellent with a pair on the break and a steady surge after that to finish in 6 shots without an error. Stonebridge Wolves newcomer Dewey picks up the purple cue for his 8-ball qualifier. Dewey nearly had something special, but faded to 16 shots and no errors at the end of his turn. The 30th player called today is Melissa of the Terrace City Knights, who plays 7-ball with the red cue. Melissa struggled with her aim early on, then switched to hunting the 7 to finish on 10 shots with one error after a 3-7 combination ended up in the top left. 

Batch seven kicks off with Southern Monarchs sophomore Molly playing 7-ball with the blue cue. Molly had a sparky start and kept it up well over 9 shots without taking an error. Diamond Gems sophomore Autumn draws in for 8-ball with the green cue next. Control slipped away as the game went on, with Autumn ending on 24 shots with one error. The 33rd player today is the Midland Predators' Americus, who also plays 8-ball with the green cue. Americus did her best to maintain command of the cue ball, finishing in 21 shots with no errors after a slight fade at the end. Pacific Volcanoes captain Starlight goes next with the red cue in 8-ball. Starlight was merciless early on and closed out the effort in 18 shots with no errors. Tigerette rounds out this group with the blue cue in hand for 7-ball in her Boston Swifts debut. Tigerette had an early error for a scratch, but settled in late to end on 10 shots. 

The eighth group begins when Atlantic Pirates sophomore Buddy shoots 8-ball with the blue cue. Buddy had a couple of errors for scratches, but he kept his poise to end on 19 shots. Maplewood Lumberjacks star Whiskers goes 37th today, using the green cue in 7-ball. Whiskers couldn't get clear looks at good angles, needing 14 shots with one error to get through the outing. The green cue goes again with Atlantic Pirates veteran Dusky using it in 8-ball. Dusky started with blistering pace, but lost her touch late and fell to 22 shots with no errors. More 8-ball follows as Everton Eagles captain Goldy draws in with the purple cue. Goldy got caught moving too slow early on, and then sank the 8 prematurely for her five errors in 28 shots. Wrapping up the set, Stripes makes her Southridge Defenders debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Stripes played well initially but scratched near the end to close with 11 shots and one error. 

Group nine leads off as Royal Crowns rookie Kacey shoots 8-ball with the red cue. Kacey nearly got the 8 on the break, but had to settle for 20 shots after taking two late errors. More 8-ball is on the way as Boston Swifts newcomer Sydney S. uses the green cue. Sydney S. maintained good shooting form and escaped in 20 shots with no errors. A season debut awaits the Westside Rockers' Chimpy when he takes up the blue cue for 7-ball. Chimpy took care of business with a 2-7 combination to the bottom left to end in 3 shots with no errors. Today's 44th game is in 8-ball as the Pronger Tridents' Avril uses the silver cue. Avril tried to play at a high pace, but faltered with brutal misses near the end, giving her 22 shots and one error. Bringing up the rear, North Modernistic Nighthawks veteran Gizmo uses the blue cue for 7-ball. Gizmo had the first perfect game today, popping the 7 to the bottom left on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. 

The last group of the day commences when Harrison Specters newcomer Snuggle shoots 8-ball with the green cue. Snuggle had a good start despite a bad break, and he took only one error in a reasonable 21 shots. Next up, Todavía Stills star Sierra shoots 8-ball with the purple cue. Sierra was very efficient in her appearance, taking only 18 shots with no errors. Archtown Arrows captain Sally goes 48th, using the green cue for 8-ball. Two scratches from the top accounted for Sally's errors, but it was slow finish that stuck her at 23 shots. The green cue remains active for Stonebridge Wolves captain Juno to play 7-ball. Juno looked to be in trouble early but salvaged a decent score of 10 shots and no errors. Lighton Prestige star Spirit ends the day with the silver cue in 8-ball. The usually mild mannered Spirit lost her cool completely when her score came up at 35 shots with six errors, mostly due to an illegally potted 8. The cries around the league are to abolish the 5-error penalty in 8-ball style games, but that will have to be discussed ahead of next year. 

A challenging qualifying session so far gets to deal with a humidity increase on Friday, with the hopes that it will slow down the cue ball.

Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 3

With the third day of action in order, there will be some 8-ball mixed in with the 7-ball in the new staggered drawing system. Games that are not explicitly mentioned in a particular style are 7-ball. First up...

Everton Eagles veteran Puff III makes her season debut with the purple cue. Puff III enjoyed a strong set of turns, playing to 8 shots and no errors with her confident approach. Sweetheart of the Boston Swifts gets her first look as team captain with the green cue. Sweetheart struggled, scratching on the break for her lone error and then slipping to 13 shots in the end. Tysini Hummingbirds star Charli is next to make her season debut, using the red cue. Charli made no mistakes after potting a pair on the break, clearing the table in only 7 shots with no errors. The first 8-ball game goes to Midland Predators veteran Chicky Phil, who will use the silver cue. Chicky Phil was strong in the outing, taking only 19 shots with no errors as a couple of early runs paced his play. The silver cue remains active as Quincy makes his Modernistic Union debut in 7-ball. Quincy's first game with his new team was poor, as he couldn't find many clear lines and needed 15 shots with no errors to finish. 

The second group begins with Tysini Hummingbirds rising star Sarah, playing 7-ball with the blue cue. Sarah tried to finish early but couldn't sink the 2-7 combination at the bottom right, instead settling for 10 shots and one error. Pearl Surfers co-captain Watermelon is up next with the silver cue in 8-ball. Watermelon didn't have a hot start, struggling on stripes and taking one error in her 23 shots. Luigi makes his Commerce Tradewinds debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Luigi had a decent effort, but a late gamble led to his lone error as he fouled on a 6-7 combination. Luigi then had to finish the rack at 10 shots. Another 7-ball game sees the Pearl Surfers' Wings use the blue cue in his season debut. Wings had a solid break and played efficiently in 8 shots to close the effort with no errors. Stonebridge Wolves rookie Lindsay ends the group with her career debut with the red cue. Lindsay showed confidence early on and finished with 8 shots and no errors for a successful debut. 

Going 11th today, Eastside Sharks sophomore Maison also uses the red cue in 7-ball. Maison faltered after a good first shot, taking one error and coasting to 12 shots. Capital City Sharpshooters veteran Sprinkles checks in with the silver cue in 8-ball. Sprinkles had no trouble finding her shot this time, taking 20 shots and no errors to clear the table. Oceanside Waves sophomore Rocky brings it back to 7-ball with the blue cue in hand. Rocky's break saw him rocket the 3 to the bottom left and the 7 to the top side for 0 shots and zero errors. Lighton Prestige veteran Shiny follows that with the purple cue in 8-ball. Shiny faltered early on, missing shots she needed to make and adding two errors before closing at 25 shots. Archtown arrows veteran Sleepy B. closes this batch with the purple cue in 7-ball. Sleepy B. took some gambles early on and paid for it later, ending on 11 shots with no errors. 

Group four kicks off with Southern Monarchs captain Pounce stepping into his new role with the blue cue in 7-ball. Pounce was brilliant to get a contact play and then a deflection off the 1 to sink the 7 at the bottom left in 2 shots with no errors. Another 7-ball game sees the Pacific Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty using the red cue. Ms. Kitty had a good break, but couldn't find good positioning throughout, taking 13 shots with an error at the end. The 18th game today is Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy using the silver cue in 8-ball. Ms. Puppy couldn't get anything going in the right direction, skidding to 29 shots with two errors in the end. More 8-ball follows as the Golden Pilots' Strut steps up with the green cue. Strut handled things fairly well, taking 24 shots with no errors to get through the appearance. Pearl Surfers co-captain Neopolitan finishes the group with the purple cue in 8-ball. Neopolitan had a rough start at times, but she took only one error and managed to finish at 24 shots. 

The fifth batch starts as Lighton Prestige captain Acorn plays 7-ball with the green cue. Acorn nearly got away with a quick finish, but instead had to settle for 10 shots and one error after a slip-up in the middle. The 22nd player called today is Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Vladimir, who has the silver cue up for his season debut. Vladimir finished early, taking a 2-7 combination to the top left to end with 3 shots and no errors. Up next, Josie makes her Viewpoint Sound Meteors debut with the red cue. Josie made a mess of the turn, often left with bank attempts that pushed her score to 14 shots and one error. Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy will try to redeem the red cue in 7-ball. Shaggy did well, starting her season with only 8 shots and no errors as she kept control very well. The red cue goes again as Oceanside Waves sophomore Megan plays 7-ball. Megan managed to hang on despite a very nervy start, closing out with 9 shots and one error. 

Atlantic Pirates captain Delila opens the sixth batch with the red cue in hand for 8-ball. Delila was productive with her poorer shots, keeping things error-free and closing in 20 shots. Westside Rockers rookie Carly is next, using the silver cue in 7-ball for her career debut. Carly's debut was one to forget, as she took two errors and needed 19 shots to get through it, losing her cool by the end. The silver cue remains active as Whitewater Shores rookie Rachel uses it in 8-ball. Rachel did her best to keep control even with an early scratch as her lone error. She was sharp late, ending in 21 shots. The 29th player of the day is Tysini Hummingbirds star Sugar, who uses the blue cue in 7-ball. Sugar tried to figure it out early in the game, but a slow finish led to her needing 13 shots with no errors. Another of last year's stars, Todavía Stills captain Easter gets her season debut with the purple cue. Easter couldn't get control in her appearance, needing 14 shots and no errors to finish. 

Group seven is led by Golden Pilots veteran Sparkles, who uses the red cue in 7-ball. Sparkles got multiple contacts on the 7 during the break, guiding it to the top left for 0 shots and zero errors. Following that, Queens Flames superstar Violetta makes her season debut with the green cue. Violetta kept it simple and clean with 8 shots and no errors in a clean start to the year. The 33rd game today goes to Modernistic Union veteran Sydney C., who returns to the league with the blue cue in hand for 7-ball. Sydney C. was alright, taking one error for a scratch in her 11 shots in a fairly standard performance. Panda makes his Everton Eagles debut with the green cue in hand. Panda took an error for a scratch early on, but settled in to close at 10 shots. Rounding out the group, Todavía Stills star Ruby plays 8-ball with the red cue. Ruby was as strong as ever, showing total control to complete the game in 17 shots with no errors. 

The red cue also fronts bunch eight, as Archtown Arrows sophomore Greg makes his season debut in 7-ball. Greg made a ball on the break and kept things in front of him to end in 7 shots with no errors. Another Arrow goes 37th today, as Hoppy shoots 7-ball with the silver cue. Hoppy had to do a little more positional work, but she still finished pretty well at 9 shots with no errors. Central Warriors star Dustin makes his second appearance of the year, using the green cue in 8-ball. Dustin couldn't quite solve his late-game problems, ballooning to 24 shots and no errors at the end. Midland Predators veteran Rainmane draws in with the silver cue for 7-ball. Rainmane was aggressive but composed in this game, needing only 8 shots with no errors to finish. Back in 8-ball, Pearl Surfers veteran Bright uses the green cue to close the set. Bright rattled off a great showing with 20 shots and no errors while displaying great command. 

The 41st game today is the much-anticipated start of Patches' Oceanside Waves career, which sees her use the green cue in 7-ball. Patches was unremarkable in her team debut, taking 12 shots and one error to finish. Next up, Maplewood Lumberjacks sophomore Marissa uses the silver cue in 8-ball. Marissa wasted a good start, fading with a pair of errors in 25 shots. Diamond Gems captain Shadow gets his season debut with the purple cue in 7-ball. Shadow was creative at times but faltered with an error as he made the 6-7 combination at the top left. He finished on 11 shots. Continuing along, Southern Monarchs rookie Gabby makes her career debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Gabby put in a fairly standard effort with 10 shots and no errors, slipping slightly near the end. Ending the group, Freedom Cascades captain Stinky shoots 7-ball with the purple cue. Stinky skidded early in his appearance before locking in at 12 shots and no errors. 

Today's final group commences as Westside Rockers newcomer Snowball uses the green cue in 8-ball. Snowball avoided errors, but her late work was sloppy as she closed with 23 shots. Oceanside Waves newcomer Daisy is next, taking up the red cue for 8-ball. Daisy was in total control early on, but eased up a bit at the end to close with 17 shots and no errors. Archtown Arrows newcomer Cubby also plays 8-ball, using the green cue in today's 48th game. Cubby started quite well, but also took a cautious approach at the end, closing with 20 shots and no errors. The green cue remains in play for Capital City Sharpshooters captain Chris' season debut in 7-ball. Chris executed a textbook break to put the 5 in the bottom left and the 7 in the top side for 0 shots and zero errors. Atlantic Pirates hotshot Isabella ends the day with the red cue in 7-ball. Isabella was both fast and sloppy in this game, taking 8 shots with two errors. 

That's all for today. We'll have more 7-ball and 8-ball qualifiers tomorrow.

Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 2

We're back for the second guaranteed full day of 7-ball in qualifying. After this, events will begin to be slowly mixed into the process. Today's activities begin with...

The Midland Predators' Americus using the green cue. Americus made a pair on the break, but a scratch was her lone error that pushed her to a still-strong 7 shots. The green cue gets another turn as Golden Pilots superstar Dusty plays. Dusty had a couple of odd shots, but a 5-7 combination to the top left ended her turn in 8 shots with one error. Going third today, Roxy makes her Southridge Defenders debut with the silver cue. Roxy couldn't wrangle in enough shots early on, and an error in the middle led to her finishing on 13 shots. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Twinkie I will also use the silver cue in her season debut. Twinkie I did fairly well with a strong break, but she took an error before closing at 8 shots. The Whitewater Shores' Twinkie III ends the group with the blue cue in hand. Twinkie III held her own after an empty break, finishing in 9 shots with no errors. 

The second group gets underway with the Queens Flames' Briana shooting with the blue cue. Briana couldn't get out of her own way, with at least four of her 13 shots blocked, but she avoided errors. Freedom Cascades third-year Andrew is ready to go with the purple cue in his season debut. Andrew made a ball on the break but took a scratch for his lone error on the next shot. He ended the game in 9 shots. The red cue is the last to activate today, joining with the Modernistic Union's Puff I. A rough break and tough angles drove Puff I's total up to 12 shots with no errors. The ninth player called today is Cowzart, who makes his Apex Wonders debut with the purple cue. Cowzart was assertive on offense and ended with 8 shots and one error. The group closes with Boston Swifts star Gradley using the red cue. Gradley recorded the first perfect start of the day, sending the 7 to the top right on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. 

The third batch sees Golden Pilots captain Valencia leading off with the blue cue. Valencia went airborne on the 4 at the top left, and that helped her finish at 8 shots and no errors in a strong game. Another captain, the Pronger Tridents' Precious, uses the silver cue in her season debut. Precious was too aggressive with her shots, resulting in 13 shots and no errors needed to complete the game. The 13th game of the day is the first appearance of a Zenith Skywatcher, as Bells uses the red cue to introduce her team to the league. Bells made a great first impression with a pair on the break before closing at 6 shots and no errors in a fast outing. The red cue stays active as Bear makes his Commerce Tradewinds debut. Bear maneuvered out of danger with a 3-7 combination to the top left to end on eight shots and one error. Finishing off the set, the Queens Flames captain Crystal shoots with the blue cue. Crystal couldn't convert many first-time attempts, and she scratched at the end to finish at 13 shots with one error. 

Group four kicks off with Apex Wonders draftee Mr. Snowman using the purple cue. Mr. Snowman started hot but faded to 11 shots with no errors by the end of the turn. Terrace City Knights veteran Oreo is next, picking up the green cue. Oreo made good use of her break, with a 1-7 combination to the bottom left on the next play to end with 1 shot and no errors. The 18th player called today is Snuggle, who suits up for the Harrison Specters to play with the silver cue. Snuggle was nearly brilliant after making three balls on the break, but he fouled as the 7 went down on the next shot. He had to clear the table, which was completed in six shots with just one error. Freedom Cascades rookie Blake goes next, using the red cue for her career debut. Blake held her own with a good break. She took one error in the middle and ended at 8 shots. Lighton Prestige star Spirit ends the group with the green cue in hand. Spirit made a pair on the break, but some sloppy positioning pushed her to 9 shots with one error in the end. 

The fifth group starts as Central Warriors star Noelle plays with the green cue. Noelle took a wide angle for her break and sent the 7 to the top left for 0 shots and zero errors. Following that, Zenith Skywatchers captain Blizzard takes up the silver cue. Blizzard drilled a pair on the break and played cautiously to end at 7 shots and no errors. Southridge Defenders rookie Ingrid draws in next with the purple cue. Ingrid struggled in her career debut, taking two errors among 12 shots as she looked a bit out of calibration. Going 24th today, the Victoria Spurs' Rosalina will use the silver cue. Rosalina showed a little veteran skill to dodge errors over 10 difficult shots. Pacific Volcanoes captain Starlight keeps the silver cue active to bring things to the midway point today. With pressure to perform after a bad year, Starlight struggled to 17 shots with three errors, the worst qualifier so far. 

The sixth set opens as North Modernistic Nighthawks star Gal uses the green cue. Gal couldn't get anything to line up favorably as she needed 14 error-free shots to finish the outing. Swordpoint Blades veteran Bandit goes 27th today, using the blue cue. Bandit rocketed a break that sank the 7 at the top side for 0 shots and zero errors. Taylor S. will go next, using the purple cue in her debut as Commerce Tradewinds captain. Taylor S. had a good start, but fell apart later with one error in 13 shots. The purple cue goes again, this time in the hands of Central Warriors newcomer Klaus. He started well, but Klaus finished with caution to end on 8 shots with no errors. Infinity Torpedoes veteran Fuchsia also uses the purple cue to end the group. Another dud performance saw Fuchsia take two errors in 16 shots as few plays aligned the way she wanted. 

Group seven leads off with Lighton Prestige star Citrus using the purple cue. Citrus did things well throughout her appearance, ending in 7 shots with no errors. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Summer brings the green cue back into action. Summer had a good game going until the 4 gave her trouble, forcing her to end with 12 shots and no errors. Boston Swifts veteran Ice Cream is 33rd to shoot today, using the red cue. Ice Cream was destined for trouble after a slow start, but a deflection off the 3 sank the 7 to the top left to end her turn in 10 shots with no errors. Up next, Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. uses the red cue in her season debut. Taylor M. got the 6 in the top left and the 7 in the bottom right on the break to finish with 0 shots and zero errors in her first appearance as a captain. Wrapping up the set, Golden Pilots veteran Max checks into action with the green cue. Max played with a fair amount of confidence, ending in 8 shots and no errors in a clean showing. 

The eighth batch begins with Pronger Tridents veteran Potter using the green cue. Potter was efficient and a little lucky to finish at 7 shots and no errors in a good season debut. The 37th player drawn today is Hughbert, who makes his Todavía Stills debut with the blue cue. Hughbert started and finished well, but a mid-game skid put him at 10 shots and no errors. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Leonette goes next, using the silver cue in her season debut. Leonette had promise early on, but dropped an error and needed 12 shots to finish the effort. The Infinity Torpedoes sophomore Blaze goes next with the purple cue. Blaze made a pair on the break and didn't slow down after that, finishing in 5 shots with no errors for a great first game of the year. The purple cue stays active for Todavía Stills star Sierra. She simply couldn't get out of the gate this time, and Sierra took an error before rallying to end at 15 shots. 

The 41st player called today is the Queens Flames' Pauline, who will use the green cue to start her year. Pauline was good from the start and tallied 8 shots with no errors to finish the game. The green cue goes again as Atlantic Pirates veteran Steven gets his season debut. Steven stumbled with a scratch in the middle of his game, which was his lone error in 12 shots. Another green cue game goes to Lorde, who will make her first appearance for the Southern Monarchs. Lorde got out of danger with a kick to make the 6 at the bottom right, leading her to 10 shots and one error for the game. The green cue spree continues as Wario of the Southridge Defenders jumps into action. Wario was sharp and clean with his play, needing 9 shots and no errors to get to the finish. Web City Spiders captain Jack ends the group with the purple cue in his season debut. Jack had a great start, but trouble late led to his lone error in 11 shots to spoil the performance. 

The last group of the day gets going with North Modernistic Nighthawks veteran Lionel using the red cue. Lionel had no trouble at all, taking 7 shots and no errors in a good opener. Archtown Arrows captain Sally is up next, using the green cue. Sally stumbled on most first-time attempts, needing 14 shots and one error to get through the game. Terrace City Knights veteran Jennifer goes 48th today, also using the green cue. Jennifer was clean early on, but a missed contact situation put her with one error and 11 shots for the game. Reigning rookie of the year Sunshine of the Royal Crowns plays with the green cue in his season debut. Sunshine used up all his luck early and ended up skidding to 15 shots with three errors as he lost control in the end. Finishing the day, Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II uses the blue cue. Twinkie II ended the day in great form, sinking the 7 on the break to post 0 shots and zero errors. 

We'll be back tomorrow, with the possible activation of players for 8-ball to join those who have yet to play 7-ball in their qualifying runs.

Tournament XI Qualifiers - Day 1

We're set to begin a new year of Qualifying, as the league has expanded to 38 teams and 190 players. This year, qualifying will take on a different structure, as players will receive a mandated day off following each appearance for as long as that remains viable. We're set to play for 34 days to sort out where everyone will rank heading into the season. Due to the new format, the first two days of qualifying will be exclusively 7-ball. We begin with...

Snowball making her Westside Rockers debut with the green cue. Snowball got the year off to a perfect start with 0 shots and zero errors as she sank the 7 to the bottom left on the break. Going second today, the Capital City Sharpshooters' Sprinkles uses the silver cue. Sprinkles didn't have the same success, but she kept it clean with no errors in 10 shots to start her campaign. A double-debut is in order when Apex Wonders rookie Maren brings the purple cue to the table to open her career. Maren struggled through the turn, picking up one late error for missed contact before closing with 14 shots. The green cue returns as the Lighton Prestige's Shiny steps up with hopes of continuing her success from the TYAT. Shiny was solid but unremarkable in 10 shots with no errors. Closing out the batch, the Royal Crowns' Brownie uses the purple cue. Brownie checked in well, making up for an empty break with an early double-pot to end with 8 shots and no errors. 

The purple cue remains active to open group two, with the Midland Predators' Chicky Phil on for his season debut. Chicky Phil was unimpressive, lacking precision as he took 12 shots with no errors. The Pronger Tridents' Prism is next, bringing the blue cue to the table for the first time this year. Prism needed a couple swipes at the 2-7 combination, but she made it in the top left for a score of 3 shots and no errors. The red cue is the last to activate, as Stephanie begins her Swordpoint Blades career. Stephanie couldn't have done a better job to impress her new team, sinking the 5 and the 7 on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. Diamond Gems sophomore Autumn is ninth to shoot today, taking up the purple cue. Autumn faltered after a good start, taking two errors among her 15 shots as the purple cue continues to struggle early on. The group ends with Everton Eagles captain Goldy shooting with the silver cue. Goldy had a pair on the break and nearly got the 7 to drop as well, but settled for 9 shots and no errors after a slow finish. 

Leading off group three, Rudolph makes his Eastside Sharks debut with the green cue. A pair on the break helped, but Rudolph was strong with control to end in 8 shots with no errors. Pearl Surfers co-captain Watermelon draws in with the purple cue for her season debut. Watermelon broke the purple curse with a heavy break that saw the 7 glance off the cue ball and into the bottom left for 0 shots and zero errors. Another Surfer follows up as Bright takes the red cue to the table. Bright was uncompromising, taking two errors for scratches and still finishing in 9 shots. The Central Warriors' Dustin keeps the red cue active for his season debut. Dustin put the 7 near the bottom left on the break and then converted a 5-7 combination to end in 5 shots and no errors in a strong start. The 15th game of the day goes to Boston Swifts newcomer Sydney S., who has the purple cue in hand. Sydney S. had an error for a scratch, but was otherwise solid in 10 shots to make her team debut. 

After the lunch break, the Apex Wonders rookie Blair plays his career debut with the purple cue. Blair showed a quiet confidence in his debut, finishing in 8 shots and no errors. Another career debut sees the Capital City Sharpshooters' Kelsea using the red cue. Kelsea was highly shaky in her positional work, leading to three errors in 14 shots. Central Warriors veteran Graham gets the 18th game of the day, playing with the blue cue. Graham struggled with control early on, but got bold with cuts at the end that salvaged a scored of 13 shots and no errors. The Web City Spiders' Waluigi gets the next game, using the silver cue. Waluigi didn't improve the league's recent form, requiring 12 shots and no errors to finish. Ending the set, Cubby makes his Archtown Arrows debut with the purple cue. Cubby made the most of his appearance, ending in 9 shots and no errors after banking the 7 to the bottom right. 

Group five gets going with the Queens Flames' Mario using the red cue. Mario took an error when he failed on a kick shot, but that was his lone mistake in 11 shots. Swordpoint Blades captain Dreamy takes her first shots in the role with the blue cue. Long range shots and positioning problems led to two errors and 14 shots for Dreamy's season debut. Stonebridge Wolves sophomore Jane plays the 23rd game of the day, picking up the red cue. Jane was sharp, taking one error but still closing the turn in 9 shots. Her close friend, Maplewood Lumberjacks sophomore Marissa, is next with the purple cue as she debuts her team's new uniforms. Marissa made a pair on the break, including the 7, but a scratch on the same play forced her to clear the table. She did so with just one error in 7 shots. Bringing us to the halfway point today, the Swordpoint Blades' Stealth also debuts this year with the purple cue. Stealth was great with a pair on the break and a 1-7 kick combination that became a clean double-pot. He ended with 1 shot and no errors. 

The sixth bunch begins with Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy using the blue cue. Ms. Puppy had a good break and kept herself steady for 9 shots and one error to start the year strong. The 27th player called today is Golden Pilots veteran Strut, who plays with the silver cue. Strut had a bit of trouble with cue ball motion, taking two errors for scratches before closing the game in 11 shots. The silver cue remains in play when the Todavía Stills' Pedey comes to the table. Pedey was very loose in his shot quality, needing 11 shots with three errors to finish the game. Atlantic Pirates sophomore Buddy takes the next game, using the red cue. A pair of scratches slowed Buddy down, but he managed to salvage a score of 11 shots. The red cue stays on hand to finish the group with Daisy making her Oceanside Waves debut. The cue ball continued to surge around the table, costing Daisy two errors in 10 shots. 

The seventh group is fronted by Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina, who has the silver cue in hand. Yekaterina found a groove with a pair on the break and a clean effort after that for 5 shots and no errors. Pearl Surfers co-captain Neopolitan is next up, using the green cue to start her season. Neopolitan had a promising start, but a skid on the 3 led to one error and ultimately 13 shots. The Diamond Gems' Leonardo brings the silver cue back into action. Leonardo pulled off a great escape, working the top left very well to close his appearance in 8 shots without an error. Todavía Stills star Ruby will keep the silver cue active for the 34th game of the day. Ruby left some shots on the table that she should have made, but still ended with 9 shots and no errors in the game. Rounding out this group, Atlantic Pirates captain Delila goes to shoot with the purple cue. Delila's break rocketed the 7 to the top right for a score of 0 shots and zero errors. 

Another Pirate starts the eighth set, as Dusky uses the blue cue. Dusky had a promising start to her appearance, but an error and a slow finish set her down at 14 shots. The 37th game today features Tysini Hummingbirds captain Leandra using the red cue. Leandra took care of business pretty well with 9 shots and no errors to her name. Next up, the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Dani gets her season underway with the blue cue. Dani put in a respectable effort, steady in her finish with 9 shots and no errors. Everton Eagles star Cleo follows up, getting her qualifying run underway with the silver cue. Cleo, a qualifying stud, surprised even herself when the 7 dropped in the bottom side on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. Slinks wraps up the group with her Tysini Hummingbirds debut, also using the silver cue. Slinks got the jitters early in her appearance, but finished well at 9 shots and no errors. 

Going 41st today, Terrace City Knights captain Kiwi picks up the blue cue. Kiwi got lucky after some sloppy shooting, as her poke off the 4 sent it to the top right and the 7 to the top left to end the game in 10 shots with no errors. The blue cue will go again as Mams is set to make her Swordpoint Blades debut. Mams showed some power early on, but a late scratch was her lone error that pushed her score to 10 shots. The Capital City Sharpshooters' second rookie debuts today with Ellie playing with the purple cue. Ellie didn't make much of her shooting angles in this game, needing 15 shots and an error to get to the finish. The blue cue is back as Infinity Torpedoes captain Smudge steps up to the table. Smudge could have finished a shot earlier, but played it safe to close at 8 shots and no errors. The blue cue will complete the group with Stonebridge Wolves newcomer Dewey debuting with his new team. Dewey took a sloppy scratch for his lone error but still finished with 10 shots. 

The final group commences with the Commerce Tradewinds' Solaris using the silver cue. Solaris narrowly avoided errors in a surprisingly good game that ended in 8 shots. Westside Rockers captain will bring the green cue back into action. Misty had a promising start before a stick foul accounted for her lone error. Misty then ended in 13 shots after a bad finish. The 48th player to go today is Whitewater Shores rookie Rachel, who uses the red cue. Rachel made a pair on her break shot, but bad positioning ruined the effort. She closed with 10 shots and an error. Pronger Tridents veteran Avril gets the next turn, using the silver cue for her season debut. Avril suffered a scratch early in her turn, but closed it out in 9 shots with confidence. The day concludes with Royal Crowns rookie Kacey shooting with the blue cue. Kacey pulled off a tricky finish after a slow start, making the 3-7 combination to the bottom right for a 5-shot, zero-error performance. 

This is just the opening day of a month-long qualifying run. Stay tuned for tomorrow's action.