Yes, you are welcomed to watch! There is much to learn from watching
quality competition and many of the matches are VERY exciting. What we
need you to know is that each of the participants have their own personal
preference on the atmosphere in which they compete. Some enjoy chatting
while others prefer nothing being said at all and complete concentration.
In a tournament setting, we respect all of our differences. In response to
this diversity, IBA created the following Tournament Rule:
The key phrase in that rule is "may watch … silently". Just
because the opponents are chatting to each other does NOT mean that you have
been invited to join in. Should you fail to show respect for either opponent and
their personal preferences, they have IBA’s support to mute you.
Booting a watcher is not allowed. Booting
tends to be a more aggressive action resulting inevitably in a disruption to
the tournament, negative feelings and chaos for your host. Muting makes a frustration turn
invisible. *smile*
Question: Where have you moved all the site links to??
IBA has been doing some redesigning on the web site. We hope you like the new
look!!
First, we have added a button to the front page called IBA FAQ (Frequently Asked
Questions). Behind it you will find all kinds of information that player’s will
find helpful … Player’s Tips, how to set your computer to work best on Pogo’s java
game site, information on how to figure out time zones, a few IBA banners for you to use
on your own web site (be sure to link back to IBA please) and more. This
area has tons of room to grow! Please send us your ideas.
We also have put all the Tournament information together in one spot to include your
Winner Points!
If you still find yourself lost, email northernjoy@northernsworld.com for
directions. 🙂
Question: How do I register for IBA events?
IBA does not require membership to play in our events. Participation is based
on a first-come-first-served approach. IBA’s Code of Conduct promotes a
family-style atmosphere and all are welcomed that help keep it that way.
Event sign ups begin thirty minutes prior to the tournament start time. Come to
http://www.pogo.com and click to play
Backgammon. You will see a room list open. Click on the Social Tab and
scroll down to the listing of tournament rooms. Enter the IBA Tournaments
Room. At the top of the room window is a Sort By Table # buttom to be
selected. Then sit at Tables 1-4 and watch the lobby chat closely for your host to
post your Round 1 assignment. If Tables 1-4 are full, please patiently await your
turn.
Before participating, you will need to be familiar with the Event Rules. Because of IBA’s popularity, it is also
very important for you to arrive early. Those players not signed into the event by
ten minutes prior to the scheduled start time will be substitute players and will play
IF at all possible.
You can also sign up on IBA’s Player Email List to
be kept informed of ‘happenings’ in IBA.
Question: Does IBA have league play?
Oh yes IBA does! All players begin in Division 3 playing 7 point matches and
work their up to Division 1 playing 11 point matches. The league lasts just short
of two months and most Divisions consist of 12 players. At the end of the current
league, the top two players advance to the next higher Division, the bottom four
players are placed in the next lower Division and the remaining four players stay with
their current Division.
To join the next league, email eggy@northernsworld.com
.
Question: What are IBA Winner Points?
With each match a player wins, they are awarded IBA Winner Points.
At the end of the month, the points earned are tallied and the Top 50 players will be
invited to play in IBA’s Top Dog Invitational. The Top Dog Invitational is played
on the first Saturday of each month (unless notified of a necessary change). An
invitation will be sent to each eligible player prior to the event. Be sure to
keep your email address current with rummy@northernsworld.com
so we can find you!
Question: Can I use the doubling cube during the match?
The use of the doubling cube is not only allowed, but it is
encouraged!! Please see IBA’s Players’ Tips for
information on it’s use. IBA also recommends http://www.gammonvillage.com as another
excellent source of learning more about the wonderful game of backgammon!
