This was brought up in another thread and I've had a chat with Kev about it since. He's willing to set it up and I've agreed to the admin of it (keeping track of scores, etc.) if we get the interest.
Here's what I have in mind:
'In theory' and ideally, people with not more than 6 months experience would be encouraged to join. They would have the opportunity to play in their own weekly tournament for a relatively low buy in. Say $5 or $10 once a week on Blonde Poker. 'Experienced' tutors would join ye each week (at least 2, but if the interest is high...1 for every 10 beginners would be better).
Why do I say 'in theory'? Well, it's simple really. For this to work, we'd have to keep an open mind and accept that anyone looking to play, is truly in need of help in improving their game - from a beginner level. It is possible that a few might slip through the cracks and be more capable than they initially let on. It's also possible that some will just learn faster than others and won't need a full 6 months playing in this weekly event. To prevent 'hurt feelings' and to keep within the true spirit of the 'tuition' idea, players who are showing above average ability on a regular basis will be 'graduated' from the beginner's league at the discretion of the tutors. Anyone who signs up to this as a 'beginner' agrees to this as a condition of their entry.
Rules:
No mucking of hands. If you win the hand, you must show your cards...bluff or otherwise. This helps everyone to learn about position, making moves and value of bets/pots, among other things.
Beginners are encouraged to ask the tutors questions, however no discussion about hands while they are still in play.
If it is felt you have improved enough to warrant it, please take it as a compliment and be delighted in the fact that you will be 'graduated' from these events. Everyone is welcome to play the regular weekly leagues anyway, so nobody is being left out, as such.
Beginners are only eligible for 6 months from when they first join this league or when they are 'graduated' as stated above. If they would like to continue on as a tutor, their request will be considered.
Tutors are exempt from league points. They are there to help beginners improve their game, not to take down the monthly league. That said, they are entitled to win their share of the cash if they place in the money.
This is for beginners, to introduce them to poker and give them a chance to learn in a 'non-threatening' environment. With that in mind, the last thing I would say is...no verbal abuse at the tables. Banter is fine. 'Go **** yer *****', is not.
Calling it a 'league' is probably not the best term, but is being used for lack of a better word. This isn't a big money making venture, but a way for new players to learn the game. Basically, if you win the month, well...you win bragging rights for 30 days. That's it. Anyone who is serious about grasping the game will be happy with that. Anyone who isn't, is more than welcome to join the added value leagues instead. That said, if there's enough interest to get it off the ground, I'd be willing to put a $5 bounty on one of the tutors each week. Not much, I know, but done to add some extra banter to the night.
Being realistic, I wouldn't expect 'pros' to help out with this, unless they genuinely want to join in now and then. 'Tutors' should be Blonde veterans who are just happy to help new members learn the game in an open but protected environment. While they might not necessarily be 'pros', they have the capability to assist beginners with the basics, at the very least. Tutors would be encouraged to give beginners a proper game, but keep in mind who you're dealing with when putting chips into the pot. Try not to take em all in one hand if ya can. Teach them a lesson, but don't take the lot.
Well, that's it in a nutshell...or as much as I can think of right now. Maybe not ideal, but one way of introducing new players to poker and Blonde. I'm open to suggestions, so give a shout if you have something to add to this.
If you're an interested beginner or would like to be a tutor, post here or send me a PM. It won't happen if we don't have enough interest, so don't be shy...get posting!
Cheers!
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