Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our organization!
What is the Global Poker Federation?
GPF is a diverse group of people who enjoy getting together to play poker. We run regular tournaments at various venues (generally bars) that are open to anyone, as well as a few private home games. The games are intended to promote a fun atmosphere with friendly competition where players can socialize.
What does this cost?
It's free! The public games don’t cost anything to enter. Any prizes are generously provided by the venues or the league. Players are encouraged (but not required) to support the venues with purchases while they are there. 1st place wins a small cash prize (up to $45).
I haven’t played much poker. How much experience do I need?
Beginners are always welcome. GPF is a learning league with players of many different skill levels. It’s a great place to learn poker without the expense or concerns about making mistakes you’d have at a casino. It’s recommended that you know the basics, such as hand rankings, betting procedures, and the tournament format. If you’re not completely comfortable with those, you’re still welcome to join. Just let your table and the host know that you are a beginner and may need some help.
What games do you play?
No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em, tournament format. This is the most popular form of poker and the common tournament game that you’ll see on TV. The games are self-dealt (the players act as dealers), but it’s not uncommon for someone who’s not comfortable dealing or unable to deal to ask someone else to deal for them. The games have escalating blind levels and are played until a single winner remains. This generally takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the number of players.
The GPF follows, for the most part, the TDA (Tournament Directors Association) rules, with a few special house rules (nothing strange) that are noted on this site. Any rule disputes are handled by the host.
Are there prizes?
Yes, the venue provides a prize that is paid to the winner of the tournament. The final 8 players in a tournament also earn league points. Points are used to qualify for quarterly league championship games.
How do I get started?
Sign up for an account on this site and keep track of your assigned player number. Show up at any venue before the start of a scheduled game. Each game has a host with a sign-in sheet. Sign in with your name and player number and the host will either provide you chips or there will be chips at your table. If you forget to sign up for an account, you can still join and the host will create an account from the sign-in sheet. Let the host know that it’s your first time with the league. New players get bonus chips! Have a seat and listen for your host’s instructions. You’ll be drawing a card to determine who deals the first hand and the host will announce when to start. The host will also announce when there are breaks and when the blind levels change.
Is there anything else I should know about the league?
Aside from the regular games, there are also quarterly championship games that have larger prizes. The league also provides a prize - travel, accommodations, and buy-in to a major WSOP event - for the player who has the best results at the World Series of Poker. There are qualifications for participating in both of these.
There is also a Facebook group titled “Global Poker Federation”. Members are encouraged to join that group. It’s actively used for announcements and discussion.