8 ball, going corner pocket

For the past two years, billiards has been conspicuously missing from the long list of intramural sports offered by the IU RecSports program, but this fall marks its return. The program initially left campus due to lack of participation, but because students missed the program, it is back by popular demand. \n"The intramural sports schedule is determined by student interest as demonstrated by participation and also by the Intramural Sports Council," said Stacey Hall-Yanessa, program director for Intramural Sports, Club Sports and Student Development. "Our job is to provide the sports that students want to play. Billiards has been added back to the calendar after significant interest was demonstrated by numerous students last year."\nBilliards enthusiasts will be able to enjoy the competition and each other's company while learning and perfecting their billiards skills. Unlike traditional, crowded pool halls, RecSports provides a different type of atmosphere.\n"I think there is a negative connotation toward people who hang around in pool halls all of the time shooting pool," said senior Jordan Wolfe, an intramural billiards participant. "I think it's a great thing, and it keeps people out of trouble. Bringing back the intramural sport will give students a chance to revive such a beautiful and pure game that has lost its appeal to people of our generation."\nIntramural billiards works well for even those with extremely busy schedules, as it does not require an excessive time commitment -- participants can select the time and day they would like to play. Times are chosen on a first come, first serve basis, so early registration is important. Registration will be open until all the spots are filled.\nAccording to the RecSports Web site, all matches will be played at the Indiana Memorial Union in the eight-ball format and must be completed in 30 minutes. Participants will play a three-game round robin, and the top two teams from each league will advance to the playoffs. In the event of a tie, all teams involved in the tie will advance to the playoffs.\nThere is a $5 entry fee per person, which includes the cost of the table rental, balls and cues. Playing categories include men's and women's singles and doubles, co-IM, and fraternity singles and doubles. Today is the last day to register. For more information, call RecSports at 855-7772 or visit its Web site at www.recsports.indiana.edu. \n-- Contact staff writer Carrie Ritchie at ccritchi@indiana.edu.