Valley National 8-Ball League Association, (VNEA) is probably well-known to pool lovers. It has close to 100,000. Members and host of weekly leagues within over 400 cities. It is the world's largest amateur league and plays in 36 US states as well as 36 other countries. VNEA is also an entertainment business that generates huge amounts of revenue. Apart from participating in local leagues the players are also eligible to compete in Valley National 8-Ball League Association international championships. These championships are held annually from May 27 through Juni 5.
Valley National 8-Ball League Association members can play in leagues based purely on their ability. Each league has a captain. This person collects the league fees, keeps score sheets, and performs other duties. The captain coordinates the activities of the team and makes sure everyone knows the rules. The captain is responsible for collecting points and helps prepare the team for events.
The VNEA promotes good sportsmanship. The VNEA has awarded the Sportsmanship Award to its members, which is voted upon by them. The league also promotes sponsorship of local businesses. VNEA members with locations can get assistance from the operator assistance network. LeagueSMART provides software, table control and increased revenue. The league provides various league materials including score sheets and table markers as well as envelopes and other supplies.
VNEA Pool Leagues offer friendly competition to players, who will be competing against other league members in round-robin format matches. Players must use 7 by 3,5 ft "bar boxes" coin-operated pool tables. These tables are smaller than 9 x 4.5 ft regulations tables. VNEA leagues frequently organize individual tournaments for players who are not looking to play in a team.
The VNEA has honored players for their contributions to the pool league in the past. Caela, who has been involved with the league since its inception back in 1999, is one example. She has won many titles at VNEA World Championships. She has also won numerous tournament titles, including Singles, Team events, and Women's Regular 8-Ball Singles. She has been an active advocate for the VNEA of Colorado. For the past two years, she has been a major fundraiser for Gene Pool league. She has held many benefit tournaments to support cancer research and street children.
Shane Bloomberg is another pool player with an impressive and long history in the VNEA. He is the grandson of Gary and Jeanie Bloomberg. Since he was nine years of age, Shane has been an active member of the VNEA. He went on to be one of the top pool players in the country. He is a regular contender in the Pro Tour, and is expected to be named Player of the Decade in 2020.