HOW THE LADDER WORKS
Matches are best of 5 frames. You can challenge players up to 15% of the current ladder size above your position, rounded up.
Once a challenge is made, players have 14 days to arrange and play the match.
If the challenger wins, they move immediately above the player they challenged. If the challenged player wins, the ladder positions stay the same.
WHO CAN I CHALLENGE?
The challenge form will only show you the players you are currently allowed to challenge.
MATCH RULES
Scratch
Best of 5 frames
Players have 14 days from the challenge being made to complete the match.
AFTER THE MATCH
If the challenger wins, they move immediately above the player they challenged.
If the challenged player wins, the ladder positions stay the same.
The winner receives 3 days’ immunity, meaning they cannot be challenged during that period.
The loser becomes vulnerable for 3 days — they cannot issue a new challenge themselves, but they can still be challenged by eligible players.
A player who loses also cannot challenge the same opponent again for 7 days.
Submit the result through the Ladder web app and the player’s Castle ELO updates immediately.
HOW THE INITIAL LADDER IS DRAWN
Players are ranked by their Castle ELO, then split into 5 broadly equal ability bands.
Positions are then randomised within each band.
This gives stronger players a higher starting area without simply putting everyone in exact ELO order — so there is movement, variety and something to play for from day one.
JOINING AFTER LAUNCH
Once the initial Ladder has gone live, any new player joining later will start at the bottom of the Ladder.
From there, they climb by making and winning challenges like everyone else.
LADDER PRIZES
LADDER CHAMPION
BIGGEST CLIMBER
BIGGEST ELO GAIN
MOST WINS
MOST ACTIVE PLAYER
BEST JUNIOR
WHY PLAY THE LADDER?
The Challenge Ladder is about much more than just trying to finish at the top.
It gives you regular scratch match practice, helps you meet and play new people, and makes it easier to find opponents around your own level.
Every played result also affects your Castle ELO, so the Ladder is a great way to improve your rating and track your progress over the season.
Whether you’re trying to climb the table, improve your game or simply play more snooker, there is something to play for.