Ultimate Pool USA – Junior National Open 2026

Location: Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
777 Casino Drive
Cherokee, NC 28719

Dates: November 7–8, 2026

The Ultimate Pool USA Junior National Open returns as part of Grand Finals week at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort.

Whether you're looking to compete for the title, enjoy a great weekend of pool, or gain valuable tournament experience against players from across North America, this event is for everyone. Our unique format guarantees plenty of table time, with every player progressing into either the Main Event or the Second Chance Event after the group stage, giving everyone something to play for throughout the weekend.

With a 32-player field, two days of competition, and a minimum of four matches guaranteed, the Junior National Open is a fantastic opportunity to compete, improve your game, and be part of one of Ultimate Pool USA's premier junior events.

Entry Details

Open to: Players aged 17 and under

Entry Fee: $40 ($30 entry + $10 equipment/registration fee)

Player Cap: 32 Players Maximum

Format: Round robin group stage followed by either the Main Event or Second Chance single-elimination brackets.

• Guaranteed 4 matches based on a full field
• UPL 8-Ball Rules
• 7-foot tables
• No jump shots or jump cues permitted
• Scheduled match times throughout the event
• Prize money paid via bank transfer within 14 business days of the event finishing

Main Event Prize Breakdown (Top 8 Paid)

Second Chance Event Prize Breakdown (Top 4 Paid)

Accommodation

Book your stay at discounted rates through our official accommodation partner:

Click here to book your hotel

We recommend booking early, as hotel rooms during Grand Finals week are expected to sell quickly.

Tournament Format

Preliminary Stage

• 8 Groups of 4 Players
• Race to 4

The top two players from each group progress to the Main Event, while the bottom two players enter the Second Chance Event.

Main Event

• Final 16
• Single Elimination
• Race to 5
• Final: Race to 6

Second Chance Event

• Final 16
• Single Elimination
• Race to 4

Shot Clock & Match Timing

• All matches operate with an unofficial 30-second shot clock.
• TV Table matches use an official 30-second shot clock, controlled by the referee.
• During the final 10 minutes of TV Table matches, the shot clock is reduced to 15 seconds.
• TV Table matches also have a 40-minute match clock.

If a match is tied when time expires, the winner will be determined by a 6-Ball Shootout.

Dress Code

To help maintain a professional playing environment, all players are required to follow the dress code below.

Permitted Attire

• Playing jersey, collared shirt, or polo shirt
• Dress slacks or trousers in any color
• Smart predominantly black sneakers or dress shoes
• Smart hoodies or jackets may be worn during play

Not Permitted

• Hats
• Headphones or earbuds during play

Any clothing outside of these guidelines must be approved in advance by the Tournament Directors.

TV Table Logo Policy

Sponsor logos may not exceed 6 × 3 inches and must be positioned on the front/chest area or sleeves. Ultimate Pool USA reserves the right to request that any logo be covered or removed.

Additional Information

• Valid government-issued photo ID is required for participation.
• The Junior National Open is open to players aged 17 and under. Proof of age may be required. Ultimate Pool USA reserves the right to request documentary evidence, including a passport or birth certificate, at any time to verify eligibility.
• Players will receive additional event information via email closer to the event. Please check your inbox and junk folder for confirmation after payment.
• Follow Ultimate Pool USA on social media for official event updates and live coverage.
• Prize pool is contingent on a full field.

Refund Policy

• One entry per person.
  
• If a player withdraws and an alternate is available to take the spot, a refund may be issued.
• Ultimate Pool USA retains 25% of any refunded entry fee to cover administration and processing costs.
• Ultimate Pool USA reserves the right to refuse any entry.

Media Release

By entering the Junior National Open, players grant Ultimate Pool USA permission to use photographs and video footage captured during the tournament for live broadcasts, social media, promotional material, advertising, and future marketing purposes.