Wheelchair billiards and wheelchair pool are accessible recreational activities that are available to a large number of people. All it takes to play is a cue, a table and a rack of balls.

If you decide you’d like to get competitive, the World Pool-Billiard Association rules are followed, with the following exceptions for people in wheelchairs.

Official Wheelchair Competition Billiards Rules
Cue Sports Classification
There are two categories or classes for those competing in wheelchairs:
1.    Those players who meet the minimal disability and who are unable to make and sustain a functional bridge with their non-cueing hand.
2.    All other players who meet the minimal disability who can make and sustain a functional bridge with the non-cueing hand.

Minimal Disability Defined
1.    Amputation above the ankle.
2.    Decrease of muscle strength in one lower limb of at least 30 points.
3.    Severe mobility problems comparable with handicaps under a) and b) of this section.

General Rules
1.    Players must remain seated on the cushion or seat of the wheelchair when playing a shot. Should a players buttocks be clear of the cushion or seat when striking the cue ball, it will be deemed a foul.
2.    Feet must be kept clear of the floor, should feet or foot-plates touch the floor when striking the cue ball, it will be deemed a foul.
3.    Players in class 1 may request the Referee for assistance with rests and equipment.
4.    Below the Knee strapping is allowed to keep feet on foot-plates. Strapping above the waist is not allowed except for medical reasons.

The National Wheelchair Poolplayers Association, established in 1994, is the sanctioning body of all organized wheelchair billiards in the United States. The organization sanctions eight to ten tournaments across the country every year, always in an accessible poolroom.

Check their site for cue extensions and bridges to enhance play from your wheelchair, as well as a list of players with websites. A schedule of events can help you find an accessible pool venue near you, with recent listings from Minnesota to South Carolina, Virginia to Colorado.

If you’re interested in a group that includes billiards in a more complete roster of wheelchair accessible sports, try Achieving Wheelchair Equality (AWE) located in North Charleston, SC. Dedicated to encouraging people with mobility impairments in recreational activities, they also offer wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, and adaptable racing, handcycling, swimming, weight lifting, fishing and more.

Additionally, AWE helps wheelchair users and others with mobility issues in the areas of employment, family and community since 1991. Explore their website and see if this is an organization for you.