What is the Systematic Speed Ratio (SSR)?
The SSR program is a truly revolutionary automated program designed by professional pool players. It monitors and adjusts each player objectively after calculating more than 36 aspects of a player’s performance. The SSR program provides accurate handicapped match play as well as monitors and studies player behavior in order to provide fair and challenging Speeds (Ratings). It is the World Champion who is always monitoring your game and is designed to bring out the best in you. The SSR Program is the most advanced rating program in the billiard industry and is the trusted system of the UPA.
Metrics Included in SSR Calculation:
- Ability to win matches and games
- Skill level of the mechanics of play
- Skill used to react to defensive strategy used against the player
- The use, execution and effectiveness of a planned strategy
- Performance against other player Speeds
- Breaks, runs and averages on many levels, etc.
Systematic Speed Ratio FAQ
What Speed (Rating) will I start with?
Your League Operator (LO) will prescribe you an Initial Speed” (IS) based on player information. Here is a basic outline of how our system categorizes players;
Professional (11-12): Currently play as “10 Speed” until future professional implementation into program.
Advanced (8-10): These players demonstrate consistency, knowledge, and solid mechanics in all parts of the game.
Intermediate (4-7): These players have a working knowledge of the game and exhibit characteristics of Advanced players with less consistency.
Beginner (1-3): Players learning pool for the first time and struggle with basics; stance, holding cue, rules, usage of English to cue ball, etc.
If an LO prescribes an IS of 2+ Speeds off, they may contact Corporate Office for a possible correction. If a correction was made the LO is required to provide an explanation to the player and the player will receive an email notification from Corporate Office. The UPA recognizes that an IS may need correction for any of the following reasons:
- Data entry error
- Lack of player information upon joining
- Player misrepresents skill level
Can LOs make Speed adjustments?
No. The system is completely automated. Once your IS has been finalized, UPA employees and LOs do not have access to the system. They cannot request Speed Reviews nor provide explanations as they do not have a working knowledge of the system’s algorithms. The UPA maintains strict adherence to all policies and guidelines for the purposes of integrity and the protection of proprietary information.
What is a Speed Review?
A Speed Review is when a professional pool player reviews your statistics to see if any type of Speed adjustment (higher or lower) may be applied. Always remember the SSR Program is an automated system designed to “think” like a world champion pool player. When a Speed Review is conducted you may be adjusted higher or lower to a Speed that properly challenges you.
Can I have my Speed Reviewed?
Yes, check your Player Dashboard’s “Reviewed on” date to see if it has been 60 days since your last Review. If so, fill out our Speed Review Request and confirm your email address. All Reviews are conducted within 7 business days and are final. Check your PD or league night paperwork for changes, if any, as no further communication will occur.
Can I report another Member?
No. All Speeds are a matter between UPA Corporate Office and each individual member. If you feel that a player’s Speed is too high, encourage them to fill out a Speed Review Form. If you believe that a player is somehow cheating report the matter to your LO. Also, keep the following points in mind:
- Members do not control their own Speeds
- Your LO may have brought them in too high, or too low
- Players may have recently been adjusted
- Players may play well however struggle to win matches
- The SSR Program monitors/adjust all players equally
