Posted on September 12th, 2026

Friday Night 10-Ball Tournaments at Pockets Billiards

Friday night 10-ball tournaments at Pockets Billiards Bar & Grill begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. Free practice begins at 6:00 p.m., and sign-ups open at 7:00 p.m., giving players time to register and prepare before the bracket begins.

The tournament features a true double-elimination format and FargoRate R4 Hot Races. When the field reaches 24 players, Pockets adds $200 to the prize fund.

Whether you are an experienced tournament player or ready to enter your first bracket, Friday night at Pockets offers competitive pool against players with a wide range of skill levels.

Friday Night 10-Ball: Start Time, Format and Payout

The tournament starts promptly at 8:00 p.m. every Friday. Because the event uses a true double-elimination bracket, players are not eliminated after their first match loss. They continue through either the winners’ side or one-loss side of the bracket until they receive a second loss.

When at least 24 players compete, Pockets adds $200 to the tournament prize fund.

Tournament rules include:

• FargoRate R4 Hot Races

• True double elimination

• Alternating breaks

• Rack your own

• CSI 10-ball rules

• Called ball and pocket

• Push-out permitted after a legal break

• Jump cues permitted

• $200 added with 24 players

Pockets also offers a full bar and grill menu, so players can enjoy food and drinks throughout the tournament.

What Is a FargoRate R4 Hot Race?

FargoRate R4 Hot Race handicapping assigns each player a specific number of games they must win to take the match. The assigned races are based on the Fargo ratings of the two players.

A higher-rated player may need to win more games than a lower-rated opponent. The first player to reach their assigned number of games wins the match.

This format gives players of different skill levels a competitive opportunity while still rewarding strong, consistent play. Every rack matters because each player is racing toward an individual target.

Players who are new to bracket tournaments should confirm their assigned race before beginning each match. The tournament director can answer questions about the bracket, race chart and rules.

APA and USA Pool League Nights in Covington

Pockets hosts APA and USA Pool League competition every Tuesday and Wednesday. All 9-ball league matches are played on Tuesday, while all 8-ball league matches are played on Wednesday.

League nights provide structured competition, team camaraderie and regular opportunities to improve your game. Players can participate in:

• APA and USA Pool League competition

• Tuesday night 9-ball

• Wednesday night 8-ball

• Team-based scoring

• Skill-level and FargoRate-based competition

• Opportunities to advance to regional and national events

The exact mix of participating APA and USA Pool League teams may vary by session. Weekly league play is excellent preparation for Friday night tournaments, helping players improve their shot selection, position play, safety skills and ability to perform under pressure.

Pockets Billiards Bar & Grill hosts pool leagues, tournaments, darts, poker and other special events throughout the week.

View the complete Pockets Billiards event schedule, then join us Friday night for 10-ball. Free practice begins at 6:00 p.m., sign-ups open at 7:00 p.m., and the tournament starts promptly at 8:00 p.m.