Overview
About American Poolplayers Association
In 1981, Terry "Texas Terry" Bell and Larry "The Iceman" Hubbart, both professional pool players, joined forces to form the American Poolplayers Association.
Before the American Poolplayers Association, there was no organized recreational pool league system in the United States. The new association filled the gap and now oversees the American Poolplayers Association 8-Ball League and the American Poolplayers Association 9-Ball League in the United States, Canada, and Japan.
Since beginning to franchise in 1982, the American Poolplayers Association has grown to over 300 franchises in the United States, as well as over one dozen located internationally.
Why You May Want to Open an American Poolplayers Association Franchise
The American Poolplayers Association organizes leagues through its franchisees (called League Operators) and two annual championships in Las Vegas, Nevada. These championships allow pool players to win large cash prizes.
The American Poolplayers Association has been ranked in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 based on an evaluation of more than 150 data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability.
To own an American Poolplayers Association franchise, you don't have to be a skilled pool player. However, many franchisees got to know the American Poolplayers Association through playing in a local league.
The American Poolplayers Association highly values franchisees who show drive and a sense of urgency. A franchisee should be friendly, confident, and creative. Franchisees will work independently and be their own bosses, but should also enjoy team building.
What Might Make an American Poolplayers Association Franchise a Good Choice?
The American Poolplayers Association is focused on the quality of the service it provides. It may be experiencing success because its members, teams, and host locations are delighted and recommend the American Poolplayers Association to others.
Opening a American Poolplayers Association franchise may offer a more predictable outcome than investing in a completely new brand that could struggle to thrive in an already crowded and competitive industry.
To be part of the American Poolplayers Association team, you should make sure you're financially ready for an initial investment made up of a franchise fee and other startup costs. In addition, you should prepare yourself for the existence of ongoing fees that will include advertising fees and royalty fees.
How To Open An American Poolplayers Association Franchise
As you decide if opening an American Poolplayers Association franchise is the right move for you, make sure you take time to explore the opportunity. Research the brand and your local area to see if an American Poolplayers Association franchise would do well in your community. While competition is healthy, too much of it may not allow for the most possible growth.
Before making any financial commitment or signing an agreement, you must perform your due diligence and establish if this is the right opportunity for you. As part of your due diligence, you may want to speak to existing franchisees and ask the American Poolplayers Association franchising team questions.
If you are awarded an American Poolplayers Association franchise, you can expect to receive constant support, as well as attend meetings and an annual convention to keep you up to speed with any changes.
Investment Details
Available Territories
Franchising opportunities available in the following regions
Training & Support Programs
Comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you succeed
Training
Ongoing Support
Operations & Requirements
Key operational details and requirements for running this franchise
Ranking History
American Poolplayers Association performance in the Franchise rankings over recent years
Additional Rankings
Curious to know where American Poolplayers Association ranked on other franchise lists? Find out below.
Ranked #1 in Miscellaneous Recreation Businesses in 2026
Best of the Best
Ranked #209 in 2026
Franchise 500
Ranked #45 in 2023
Top Home-Based & Mobile Franchises
Ranked #153 in 2025
Top Global Franchises
Ranked #18 in 2021
Top Part-Time Franchises
Ranked #10 in 2026
Top Franchises for Less Than $50,000
Similar Franchises
Sign Up for Our Franchise Newsletter
Stay up to date on the latest news and trends affecting the franchise industry.
Related Franchise Content
Catch up on the latest franchise news, trends, and more.
What Smart Franchise Buyers Know Before They Ever Step Into Confirmation Day
With such a big decision on the line, you must be prepared to walk in to make the best possible decision for your future.
What Two Adopted Puppies Taught Me About Breaking Through the Noise
One simple shift — from building a booth to creating a real emotional moment — turned passing foot traffic into meaningful conversations and lasting brand connections.
Beware the Timing Trap — Is There Ever a Right Time to Start a Franchise?
Waiting for the "right" time to start a franchise often delays action, when success depends more on preparation and execution than perfect timing.
How to Balance Passion and Practicality When Exploring a Business Opportunity
Passion can work for or against you in a business model. Your goal? Make it work for you.
The Biggest Mistake Franchises Make With Their SEO Strategy — and How to Get Real Results in 2026
I've scaled SEO across dozens of locations. Here are the systems that franchise brands need to win in 2026.
This Simple Blueprint Can Help You Sell More Franchises
If you're struggling to sell, it may be time to stop and take a hard look at whether you have all the pieces in place.