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FROM A WOMAN’S POINT OF VIEW
PRO TEAM POKER
By Marianne Minneci
A few weeks ago, I was privileged to witness a new twist on the game of poker that will likely take the poker world by storm, “Pro Team Poker.”
I was introduced to the concept about a year ago, but I was not aware of the addictive qualities that this new sporting event could have. After participating in a single exhibition match, and being a part of the action, I was hooked.
Although my playing time was cut short by having my Aces cracked on the very first hand, my desire to participate in future events was heightened.
This new concept was developed by three individuals known to many of us who play poker in the Phoenix area, Dick King, Norb Ecksl and Fred Tillich.
Together, they have combined their love of baseball and sports, and gaming careers with the game of poker, to give fans the excitement they long for, by developing the newest sport.
The keystone for the success of this new concept stems from the collective experience of its founders. Teams within Pro team Poker are patterned after those in your typical baseball league.
Each member club will have a maximum of 15 players on its roster at any time, including a coach, who can also participate as a player in all matches. There are 10 players in each match, with five alternates.
Before the game, there is a coin toss to determine which coach will be first to choose the team members who will play and where they sit. Players take their seats at two tables, five from each team at each table.
During the match, timeouts can be called by the coach to discuss strategy with his players. Play consists of eight-10 minute rounds.
For each game, there is a Match Director who manages the action, and administers the rules. There are also two scorekeepers, one situated at the head of each table.
Players are warded points for each hand they win, for their team and their individual statistics. Points are also obtained for the team by knocking out players from the opposing team.
If a player knocks out one of his own team members, the team and his individual statistics are penalized points.
Games last an average of two hours. Strategy is key, and learning to work well as a team is highly important.
The inaugural season begins play in 2007, and will consist of a minimum of eight teams in two divisions. The Southwest Poker League (SWPL) will continue play for at least 15 weeks, culminating in the championship playoffs in May.
Anyone who wants to play or participate in any way in the operation of the teams, the League and the Association, can find out more information about this fantastic new poker concept by contacting the All American Association of Pro team Poker at AAA PTP, PO Box 707, Gilbert, AZ 85299-0707, (480) 545-5200 or E-mail info@proteampoker.com.
You can also check out their website at www.proteampoker.com.
Registration for players, teams and coaches begins soon, and teams will be added on a first-come, first served basis.
So don’t delay, get a team together and don’t be left out.
Until next time, have a lucky month. Write me at azpokerlady@cox.net.
©ARIZONA PLAYER Gaming and Entertainment Guide; Volume 14, Number 8; August 15-September 14, 2006; P. 14; Phil Scudella – Editor. www.arizonaplayer.com.
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