The APL holds three 14 week sessions a year.  After each 14 week session the teams with the best win/loss record that finished 1st, 2nd and in divisions of 10 teams or more 3rd automatically qualify for the Regional Tournament.

For the remaining teams in the division that do not automatically qualify we hold an end of session "Best of the Rest" playoff with the winning team qualifying for the Regional Tournament.

In the APL your win loss record at the end of the 14 week session determines your automatic qualification.   If your team finishes in the top 2 or 3 of your division you do not have to play in end of session playoffs to play in the Regional Tournament.