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 has also become the world's largest amateur pool league, playing in 36 states and 36 countries. VNEA has a huge amusement business and generates tons of revenue. In addition to playing in local leagues, players also compete in the Valley National 8-Ball League Association world championships. These championships run each year from May 27, through June 5,
Valley National 8-Ball League Association players can participate in leagues based on skill level. 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 also responsible for scoring and helping the team prepare for events.
The VNEA's promotion of good sportsmanship is a hallmark. Players have been rewarded for their efforts, including being awarded the Sportsmanship Award, which is voted on by the VNEA members. The league also promotes business for its sponsoring locations. VNEA members who own or manage locations have access to the operator support network. LeagueSMART conferences offer software, better table control, and higher table revenue. The league also provides a variety of league materials, including score sheets, table markers, envelopes, and other supplies.
VNEA Pool Leagues are a friendly competition that allows players to compete against other league members in round robin format matches. Players are required to play on 7 by 3.5 ft "bar box" coin-operated pool tables, which are smaller than 9 by 4.5 ft regulation tables. VNEA leagues frequently organize individual tournaments for players who are not looking to play in a team.
VNEA have honored past players for their contributions in the pool league. Caela Gibbons, who has been a part of the league since its beginning in 1999, is one such player. She has won numerous titles at the VNEA World Championships. She has won multiple tournament titles, including Singles, Team events and Women’s Regular 8-Ball singles. She is an active supporter of the VNEA Colorado. She has been a leading fundraiser for Gene Pool League for the past 2 years. She also organizes benefit tournaments for street kids and cancer research.
Shane Bloomberg is another pool player who has a long and distinguished history with the VNEA. He is the grandson of Jeanie and Gary Bloomberg. Shane was an active participant in the VNEA from the age of nine. He has since become one the most respected pool players in the entire world. He is a regular contender in the Pro Tour, and is expected to be named Player of the Decade in 2020.