SQUASH GAME GUIDE
Bond Netherlands
This is a brief summary of the rules of squash. It is not a replacement for the official rules, and should therefore be used as an adjunct to the WSF rules, as of May 2001.
It is the responsibility of each player to :
• Read and know the full rules.
• To play by those rules.
• Play in a fair and sporting manner.
• Be ready to play at the designated time.
• Not to leave the court during play without the referee's permission.
• Not to delay the game unnecessarily.
• Ask politely for a Latvian.
• Indicate your own wrong shots. (e.g. bouncing twice, or in the Tin)
• Not to hit a ball that endangers his or her opponent.
• Ask the referee for an explanation if necessary, but do not argue.
• Pick up the ball between rallies.
• Not to get angry.
• Not to make offensive or discriminatory comments.
• Shake hands with the opponent after the game.
• Thank the referee (and marker).
Officials hear;
• DO know the rules well.
• DO keep up with the latest changes.
• DO consult with fellow officials.
• WILL assist upcoming officials
• DO speak politely and properly
• DO wear neat clothing
• DO look players in the eye.
• DO demonstrate exemplary behavior on the track.
• DO NOT argue with the players.
• NOT to give too long an explanation after a decision.
• DO NOT get too technical with the explanation.
• NOT to be influenced by others when making decisions.
• DO NOT look away during the game.
• NOT to be cocky or sarcastic.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Officials...................................................................................................................................................................4
The Marker..................................................................................................................................................................4
Announcement of the competition.......................................................................................................................................4
Markers calls................................................... .................................................. .................................................. .......4
The Referee....................................................... .................................................. .................................................5
Referee's calls................................................... .................................................. .................................................. .....6
Definitions regarding the job........................................................ .................................................. ..........................................6
Continuous game..................................................... .................................................. .................................................. ..6
Wasting time....................................................... .................................................. .................................................. ..........6
Serving..................................................................................................................................................................................7
The ball......................................................................................................................................................................8
Replacement ball........................................................................................................................................................8
Warming up the ball........................................................................................................................................................8
Times......................................................................................................................................................................................9
Changing equipment........................................................................................................................................................9
The count........................................................................................................................................................................10
Stock up.................................................................................................................................................................................10
Serving........................................................................................................................................................................11
Foot fault........................................................................................................................................................................12
Calls to the service................................................................................................................................................12
A good return..................................................................................................................................................................12
Latvian................................................... .................................................. .................................................. ...................13
Appeals................................................... .................................................. .................................................. ............13
Referee intervention...................................................... .................................................. ...............................14
Appeals to the service..................................................... .................................................. ................................................14
Appeals during play and not on service................................................. .................................................. ............14
Obstruction (Rule 12)..................................................... .................................................. .......................................15
Minimal obstruction.................................................................................................................................................15
Access to the ball........................................................................................................................................................15
Walking the wrong way..................................................................................................................................................16
Self-inflicted disability........................................................................................................................................16
Clear view........................................................................................................................................................................17
Walking through the flight..................................................................................................................................................17
Freedom to hit the ball..................................................................................................................................................18
Reasonable swing........................................................................................................................................................18
Exaggerated swing..................................................................................................................................................18
Standing too close to the player........................................................................................................................................19
When to appeal?.......................................................................................................................................................19
Holding the blow........................................................................................................................................................20
Physical contact................................................................................................................................................................21
Turning...................................................................................................................................................................21
Multiple attempts to hit..................................................................................................................................22
Distraction................................................................................................................................................................22
Object on the track..................................................................................................................................................23
Disease.................................................................................................................................................................................23
Injuries................................................... .................................................. .................................................. ..........23
Bleeding................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..........26
Injury example situations and decision:............................................. .................................................. .............26
Track conditions............................................................ .................................................. .................................27
Conduct on the Course. Rule 17............................................ .................................................. ...............................27
Penalties in the course of the game........................................................ .................................................. .......................................28
Coaching................................................... .................................................. .................................................. ..........28
Officials
In an ideal situation, a match is led by a Referee and a Marker. In most cases, one person will perform both functions, and thus have all the responsibilities that come with it.
The best position to referee is in the center of the court, close to the back wall, or in an elevated position, usually at the spectator seats.
Players are not allowed to request a different referee or marker.
Only the chief referee may appoint another official if necessary.
The Marker
The Marker calls the game and the score and repeats the decisions of the Referee. The calls of the Marker are: the Score (starting with the server), Fault, Out, Not up, Down and Stop.
If the Marker makes a call, the game is stopped.
The Marker must then be certain before making a call. If a player wants to appeal to the Referee, he must wait until the end of the rally.
Any uncertainty about a call will be decided and announced by the referee.
Announcement of the competition
The match is announced by the marker and serves to:
- to let the spectators know who is playing (and for which team)
- to make sure that the right players play against each other.
The usual way to announce and start the match is:
Berden serves, Anjema receives. Best of 5 games. Nil-nil.
(or love-all)
It is not wise to use first names because some distance from the players makes the decision-making process easier.
Markers calls
Fault: Indicates that there is a storage error.
Foot Fault: Indicates that a foot fault has been committed by the server.
Not Up: Indicates that the ball has not been played according to the rules.
This could be:
(1) the ball is not hit with the racket in the hand.
(2) the ball was hit twice.
(3) the ball was scooped onto the racket.
(4) the ball bounced 2 times.
(5) the ball was touched by something other than the racket. (clothing, e.g.)
(6) the server makes an unsuccessful attempt to hit the ball.
Down: The ball has hit the tin, or has hit the floor before reaching the front wall.
Out: The ball has hit the out line or the wall above it, or has hit the ceiling.
Handout: Indicates that the serve has gone to the other player.
4 - 3: An example of the standings. The server's score is always announced first.
Set 1: If the score is 8-8, indicates that the receiver has chosen to play to 9. Announced only once per game.
Set 2: If the score is 8-8, indicates that the receiver has chosen to play to 10. Announced only once per game
Game Ball: Indicates that the server needs 1 more point to win the game. Repeated each time the situation arises.
Match Ball: Indicates that the server needs 1 more point to win the match. Repeated each time this is the situation.
Yes Let: A replay of the referee's decision will take place and the rally will be replayed.
Stroke to??: A replay of the referee's decision to award a rally to a player.
No Let: A replay of the referee's decision not to respond to a player's appeal for a let.
Stop: To pause the game.
The Referee
• Watches and evaluates each rally, also watches players between games.
• Ensures a fair outcome for every rally.
• Make sure the marker announces the correct position.
• Also keep a written record of the situation.
• Responds to player appeals.
• Keeps track of all times.
• Communicates his decisions to the players (not to the marker).
• Ensures the correct application of the rules.
• Decide strokes and lets.
• Determines what happens next if a player is hit.
• Determines category of injuries.
• Is responsible for follow-up in case of late arrival. (not during tournaments, in which case the head referee is responsible).
• Is responsible for the course and its playability.
• Must make decisions loud and clear for players and spectators to hear.
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The referee's decision is final.
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Referee's calls
Stop: To pause the game.
Time: To indicate that a certain period of time has passed. For example, the end of the warm-up period, the rest period between games or the expiration of allowed injury time.
Half-Time: To indicate that half (2.5 minutes) of the allowed 5 minutes of hitting has passed.
Yes Let: Awards a Let if requested by a player.
No Let: Does not allow the Let.
Stroke to: Indicates that a stroke is awarded to a player.
15 seconds: To indicate that there are 15 seconds left of a permitted break. (e.g. between games)
Conduct warning/stroke/game/match: To announce an infringement and the associated penalty.
Definitions regarding the job
Line: All (usually red) lines around the court, which indicate the boundary of the playing area. A ball that touches the line is out.
Tin: The lowest part of the front wall. A ball that hits the tin is out.
Short line: The line through the middle of the court, on the floor and across the entire width. A service must bounce behind this line.
Box: The area bounded by two lines, the side wall and part of the short line, within which the server's foot must touch the ground when serving.
Half court line: The line through the center of the court, parallel to the side walls and running from the back wall to the short line.
Out Line: The line running along the top of the front wall, both side walls and the back wall to indicate the upper boundary of the playing area.
Service Line: The line between the tin and the out line on the front wall. A good serve should hit the front wall above this line.
Continuous game
The game should be as continuous as possible.
stalling for time
• An attempt by a player to gain an advantage. The referee should intervene and if necessary apply the Conduct rule with the appropriate penalty.
• Examples of time wasting include:
o Bounce the ball many times before serving.
o Walk around the track a lot between points.
o Deliberately dropping or kicking the ball away or knocking it out of bounds.
o Stopping many times to tie shoe laces.
o Clean glasses or protective visor many times if necessary.
o Unnecessarily or excessively arguing with the referee.
Serve
The server must wait to serve until the marker has called the score.
The ball
The ball must always remain on the court unless the referee decides otherwise.
Cleaning a ball between games may be allowed (usually in the case of playing with a white ball)
When play is stopped, a player or the referee is permitted to inspect the ball.
The most commonly used balls are:
Pro xx (double yellow dot) - for competitions and matches.
Competition XT (yellow tip only) - slightly more bounce for lower level competitions.
Max Progress (black and 6% larger) - for recreational players.
Max Blue (blue and 12% larger) - for beginners.
Replacement ball
If play is stopped, the ball may be replaced if both players agree and the referee allows it.
If the ball breaks during play it must be replaced. The referee decides whether the ball is broken.
If the ball breaks during play but this is not noticed until after the rally has ended, a let is played for that rally if the receiver appeals before an attempt is made to return the service.
In this case the referee has 2 options:
1: If it is clear that the ball was broken during the service, a let is played for that stroke only.
2: If the referee is not sure when the ball was broken, a Let is played for the previous rally.
Serving with an obviously broken ball always results in a Let. (even if the service is a fault)
Appeals regarding a broken ball after the end of a game must be made before the players leave the court.
If a player stops a rally because the ball is broken, and the ball is not broken, the player loses that rally.
Warm up the ball
The ball may be warmed up by either or both players during any break in play.
If play is stopped for a long period, or if a new ball is brought into use, the referee shall allow the ball to be warmed up to normal match temperature. 8
Times
A period of 5 minutes is allowed before a match to allow for warm-up and to bring the ball up to match temperature.
The referee calls half time after 2.5 minutes and time after 5 minutes.
The game must start within 90 seconds. The referee warns the players by calling 15 seconds.
Also between games a rest period of 90 seconds is allowed. The referee also indicates that there are 15 seconds left.
At the end of the 90 seconds, both players must be on court and ready to resume play.
Failure to be ready may be punished under the Code of Conduct rule.
It is the players' responsibility to ensure that they are within earshot of the referee.
Changing equipment
If a player has satisfied the referee that a change of equipment, clothing or footwear is necessary, the player may leave the court. A period of 90 seconds is allowed to replace the defective equipment. The opponent may also leave the court during this period. The referee must be satisfied that a real deterioration has occurred in the equipment to be changed during the playing time.
If the player has no replacement equipment, the referee must award the match to the opponent.
The count
The rules of Squash are written for the scoring system up to 9 points per game.
Points can only be scored by the server. If the receiver wins a rally, the service is over. If the server wins a rally, he scores a point and retains the service.
A match is best of 3 or best of 5 games.
The first player to reach 9 points wins the game, unless the score is 8-8. In that case, the receiver decides whether to play to 9 or 10.
That decision is made once per game, and is binding for that game.
The marker calls Game Ball or Match Ball every time a player needs 1 more point to win the game or match.
Both the marker and the referee should keep and record the score to avoid confusion and discussions about the score and who served from which side.
Point-a-rally scoring (PARS)
This system is currently used by PSA for professional men's events, and is also used in the SBN Men's Eredivisie 2005-06.
The winner of a rally scores a point, regardless of whether he is the server or the receiver.
If the receiver wins a rally, he scores a point and also becomes the server.
Games are played to 11 points. The first player to 11 wins the game. At 10-10 a tie-break is used. The first player to gain a 2 point lead is the winner.
The tie-break can therefore end 2-0, 6-4, 14-12 or some other score. The game score is recorded as 11-10 (6-4, or so.)
The marker shall call game ball and match ball as appropriate and as per the standard scoring system.
Stock up
The hitting is part of the game, and the referee and marker must be present.
The referee calls half time after 2.5 minutes, time after 5 minutes, and sees
to ensure that players hit the ball in a sporting manner, with equal opportunities to hit the ball.
The Code of Conduct rule can also be applied here in the case of unsportsmanlike behavior.
The serving
Who serves first is determined by spinning a racket (toss).
A serve is good when:
- The server does not commit a foot fault.
- The ball is hit before it touches the floor, the wall, or anything that the
waiter wears.
- The ball hits the front wall directly, between the service line and the tin. (The lines are out!!)
- Unless the receiver chooses to volley, the ball hits the floor in the opposite quarter of the court.
- The ball is not served out.
The so-called corkscrew serve requires a little more attention, because the referee has to make sure that the ball does not hit the side wall first, nor the
two walls at the same time. In both cases the serve is a fault.
To see if the ball is consistently landing above the service line, it is better to look at the line than at the flight of the ball.
The server may always choose from which side he starts serving the first time. This does not have to be called by the marker
in the score. While a player is serving, the serving must be done from both sides. If it looks like a player is going to serve from the wrong side, the marker must signal this.
If, without being noticed, a serve is made from the wrong side, the next serve (if by the same player) will be a change of sides.
The marker must call the score without delay, and the players must wait until the marker has finished calling. If the players resume play before the marker has finished, the referee must stop play and have the score called.
The server may toss the ball with the intention of serving, and not hit it. (e.g. a bad toss) This does not count as a try.
Foot fault
At the moment of hitting, one foot must touch the floor within the service box. That foot may not touch the lines.
A foot fault often occurs by dragging the foot during the service movement. Watching for possible foot faults should not draw attention to other faults not being noticed.
Calls to the service
Foot Fault: The server commits a foot fault.
Not up: The server makes one or more attempts, but does not hit the ball or does not hit it correctly. (e.g. scooping). The ball hits a wall, the floor or something
what the server wears before he hits.
Out: The ball is served out.
Fault: The ball hits the floor first, the side wall first, or the side wall and front wall simultaneously. The ball hits the front wall below the service line. The ball hits the floor outside the opposite quarter of the court.
A good return
To make a good return,:
• The ball may not bounce twice.
• The ball may not go out of bounds. (unlike in tennis, in squash the lines are out of bounds)
• The ball must hit the front wall without touching the tin, touching the floor, or touching any of the players or their clothing.
• The ball must be struck once while the racket is in the player's hand.
• The ball may not be scooped.
• The ball may hit the side wall and/or the back wall before hitting the front wall.
• A player may not catch the ball until it has bounced twice. Even if it is impossible for the opponent to catch the ball, in this case he wins that rally.
An attempt is: moving the racket forward with the intention of hitting the ball.
Lets
A let is allowed if: (these situations can never be a stroke or a no let)
- The recipient is not ready to receive the service.
- The ball breaks during a rally.
- The referee is unsure about an appeal.
- The ball goes out after bouncing.
- The ball gets stuck in a part of the playing area, preventing it from bouncing a second time.
A let may be allowed if;
The ball hits something on the floor.
The player whose turn it is to hit does not do so because he reasonably fears injuring his opponent.
Conditions on the track change, affecting the outcome of the rally.
One of the players was distracted by something off the course, and an otherwise good shot was interrupted.
Appeals
If the player makes more than one appeal concerning a rally, the referee must consider each appeal.
Players must word an appeal politely (e.g., “Appeal please,” or “Let please”).
The referee may ask why a player is appealing.
The referee must not stop the rally because a player points at the ball after he may have gone out of bounds (for example). Pointing is not a recognized way to appeal.
After a service has been made, no appeal may be made regarding anything that occurred before the service, except in the case of a broken ball.
Referee intervention
In general, a referee will only take action if there is a potential danger to one or both players, or in special circumstances.
The referee may stop play and:
- Allow a let if a situation has arisen where an injury could occur.
- To award a stroke if there is a clear obstruction and the player has made little or no effort to avoid the obstruction and the opponent is prevented from making a good stroke.
The referee stops the game by calling "Stop" as quickly and clearly as possible.
The referee must never stop a rally if he is unsure. He must then wait for the end of the rally and see if an appeal follows.
If an appeal follows, the referee must allow a let because he is not sure.
If a player is hit by the ball, the referee makes a decision on the outcome of the rally without waiting for an appeal.
Appeals to the service
If the referee is certain that a service is not good, he must immediately stop play and award the rally to the receiver.
If the marker calls a fault on the serve (out, foot fault, down or something similar), the server may appeal.
If the appeal is deemed thorough by the referee, a let is allowed.
If the appeal is not found to be thorough, the error as called by the marker will remain.
If the marker does not call out, the receiver may appeal after the rally.
This means that if a receiver appeals after the rally that the service was not good, the referee has 2 options:
1: he can declare the service 'good' and let the outcome of the rally stand, or
2. He can allow a let if he is not sure.
Appeals during the game and not on the service
If the marker calls 'out', 'not up', 'down' etc. during a rally, the player may appeal.
If the appeal is not found to be thorough, the result of the rally stands.
If the appeal is found to be thorough, a let is allowed, except:
If the marker's call has prevented the player from hitting a clearly winning ball. The player wins the rally.
If the marker does not call anything, a player must wait until the end of the rally and then appeal.
If the referee then decides that the appeal is unfounded, the result of the rally stands.
If the referee then decides that the appeal is justified (the ball was out, not up), the rally is awarded to the opponent.
If the referee is unsure, a let is allowed.
Obstruction (Rule 12)
This rule causes the most problems. The referee is there to ensure a fair outcome of the match. Understanding this rule is therefore very important.
Obstruction refers to the freedom and space a player needs to hit the ball.
To avoid interference, the opponent must do everything possible to prevent the player from:
- To allow a free and direct line to the ball, after he has made a reasonable swing himself. The player must make the necessary effort to get the ball.
- To provide a free and fair view of the ball after it has hit the front wall.
- To give the freedom and space to hit the ball with a reasonable swing - consisting of a backswing, drive and follow through.
- Allowing the freedom to play the ball to any part of the front wall.
Obstruction is caused when the opponent fails to meet any of the above requirements.
An appeal for obstruction may only be made by the player whose turn it is to hit.
If a player experiences any obstruction he can:
• Play on.
• Stop and appeal to the referee. The appeal must be made immediately, in a clear manner and without continuing play after the moment of obstruction.
The correct way to appeal is "let please". This is regardless of whether the player believes he deserves a stroke.
Minimal obstruction
If the obstruction was so slight that the player still had a clear view and access to the ball, the referee should not allow a let.
Minimal interference is the case where (for example) the player lightly touches his opponent on his way to the ball, without experiencing any direct discomfort in his swing.
Access to the ball
A player has the right to a free and direct line to the ball. After the opponent has hit the ball, he must find a way out to leave the path open to the player. Returning to the T is not necessarily the way to leave the path open to the player.
The referee must observe:
- The outgoing opponent and the line chosen as a way out.
- The position of the opponent at the moment the player wanted to hit the ball.
- Whether the incoming player could have reached and hit the ball, taking into account both speed and direction of travel.
Walking the wrong way
Sometimes a player is caught off guard, goes one way and sees the ball going the other way. He recovers, changes direction and then meets his opponent on his line to the ball.
In this situation the referee must allow a let if the player recovered in time to make a good stroke.
If the player was prevented from making a winning stroke, the referee may even award a stroke to the player.
Self-inflicted obstruction
Sometimes it happens that the opponent did not cause the obstruction. He did everything to give the clear path, but the player, without reason, took a detour to the ball, and thereby found his opponent. Otherwise there would have been no obstruction and the player himself caused it by his route to the ball.
In this case, no let is allowed by the referee.
Clear view
Obstructing the fair view of the ball usually occurs when a player plays the ball close to his own body.
This is a difficult rule to enforce - the referee must also consider whether the ball was attainable, and whether the inability to see the ball was really an obstacle. The idea is that a player must not use his body to hide the direction and flight of the ball after it has hit the front wall.
If a player loses sight of the ball due to his own poor position, or is unable to reach the ball, no let is allowed.
Walking through the flight
If a player runs through the line that takes the ball on the way back from the front wall, this will usually be a stroke. But not always.
It is a matter of when the stop is made and where both players were standing at the time. If the incoming player is obstructed in his stroke and could play the ball as he stood, he gets a stroke.
If the ball was far away (e.g. very high) at the time of the appeal, the referee will not allow a let. 17
Freedom to hit the ball
This means that the player is given the opportunity to make a reasonable backswing, a stroke and a reasonable follow through.
Reasonable swing
If a player's swing is obstructed by the position of his opponent, even though the opponent has done everything possible to get out of the way, the referee must award the stroke to the player.
The player may also delay his stroke - he chooses when he wants to strike, and the opponent must still give him the freedom and space to make the stroke.
If the player stops because he has not been given freedom and space, the referee must observe the following:
1. If the opponent is standing too close, and the player stops because he has hit or would hit the opponent in his swing, the referee must award a stroke to the player.
2. If the player stops because there has been minimal contact, and the opponent has done everything possible to give space, the referee must award a let.
3. If the player stops because there has been minor contact, and the player could easily have continued playing without difficulty in making his swing, the referee should not allow a let.
4. If a player stops because the opponent is standing very close but is not interfering with the swing, the referee should award a let, as there was reasonable cause to stop for fear of injury.
Exaggerated swing
If a player makes an excessive and dangerous swing, the referee must, in the event of obstruction, apply the appropriate penalty measures.
The referee shall determine, if necessary, whether there is an excessive swing. That decision is final.
An exaggerated backswing is where the racket arm is fully extended, with the racket also fully extended.
An exaggerated swing is also where the racket arm is extended, and especially where this position is held for longer than is necessary to complete the stroke.
The exaggerated swing can therefore cause obstruction to the incoming player.
Standing too close to the player
If an opponent stands too close to the player, and does not give him enough space to strike, he has no right to appeal. If this causes an injury to the opponent, the referee must consider the injury as self-inflicted.
When to appeal?
In case of obstruction in the backswing, the appeal should be immediate.
An attempt to hit the ball again indicates that the player has passed through the obstruction and is therefore not entitled to a let.
There is a thought pattern for the referee when making a decision regarding obstruction.
Was there any obstruction? No No let
Yes
Was the obstruction minimal? Yes No let
No
Could the player have gotten the ball, and did he make every effort to do so? No No Let
Yes
Did the player play through the obstruction? Yes No let
No
Did the player himself cause the obstruction? Yes No let
No
Did the opponent do everything to get out of the way? No Stroke to player.
Yes
Could the player have hit a winning ball? Yes Stroke to player.
No
Could the player have made a good return, but not a winning ball? Yes Let
Had the player hit the opponent with the ball while it was on its way straight to the front wall? Yes Stroke to player.
Did the player hit the opponent with the ball as it went via the side wall (or back wall) to the front wall? Yes Let
Was the ball played via the side wall a winning ball? Yes Stroke to player.
Holding the blow
If a player fails to strike the ball when the ball, if struck, would clearly have hit the opponent on its way directly to the front wall, a stroke is awarded to the player.
If a player fails to strike the ball when the ball, if struck, would have hit the opponent through the side wall (player or wall first), a let is allowed unless the strike would have been a winning ball. In the case of the winning ball, a stroke is awarded to the player.
A stroke cannot be awarded if there is turning - that is, the ball has gone around the player, changing a forehand stroke into a
backhand stroke (or vice versa).
A stroke cannot be awarded if there is a second attempt - that is, the player misses the ball on the first attempt and is obstructed by the opponent on the second attempt.
Physical contact
Players should be aware that squash is a non-contact sport and that in their attempts to retrieve and hit the ball they should avoid making unnecessary contact with the opponent.
If a player makes unnecessary or deliberate contact, the referee may stop play and impose an appropriate disciplinary measure.
It is important that players understand that running into the back of an opponent (for example) is punishable.
The referee should also pay attention to a player who pushes off against the opponent. Often this has no effect on the rally, but a warning may be relevant.
Turning
Turning occurs when;
- The player turned, thus changing from forehand to backhand (or vice versa).
- The ball went around the player without him actually turning, thereby causing the change of stroke.
Turning often, but not exclusively, occurs during the service return.
It is not necessary for the ball to have hit the side wall or back wall when turning.
If a player stops after turning and does not strike the ball, this is not necessarily a let. The referee must be satisfied that:
1. The player could have hit the ball.
2. There was a reasonable chance that he would hit the opponent.
3. The turning situation is not caused or sought to stop the game.
If, after turning, the player still hits the ball directly towards the front wall and hits his opponent, the player loses the rally. 21
It is always possible to hit a winning ball after turning. The opponent has no right to appeal because turning has taken place.
Multiple attempts to hit
If a player attempts to hit the ball and misses, he is allowed multiple attempts.
A second (or third) attempt also includes the shot after a player deliberately misses the ball to confuse his opponent (feint).
If the ball hits the opponent on its way to the front wall after a second attempt, a let is allowed. (except for turning, see above)
If a player makes an attempt and misses, and the ball then hits the opponent, a let is allowed, provided the player could have recovered and retrieved the ball.
If the player could not retrieve the ball after the first attempt, he loses the rally.
Distraction
The referee must first ensure that the distraction is intentional and not accidental (e.g. coughing or sneezing).
If a player waves his arm during his stroke to indicate that he thinks the previous ball has gone out, the opponent is not entitled to a let.
If the opponent falls, the player may continue playing and thus accept the distraction. He may also stop and ask for a let, after which the referee awards a let if the player could have played a normal return, or a stroke if a winning ball would follow.
If a player deliberately displays distracting behavior (clapping, stamping feet, etc.) the referee will award a stroke to the opponent.
If the distraction comes from outside the court (applause, photo flash, etc.) the referee will allow a let provided that one of the players is clearly distracted.
The referee will award a stroke to a player who played a winning ball, recently the distraction.
Object on the track
If anything other than a racket of one of the players falls to the floor, the referee must immediately stop the game.
Either player may stop and ask for a let, which must be granted.
A player is not entitled to a let after the end of the rally.
Players are responsible for managing their own equipment and accessories.
If any player's item falls onto the court, that player loses the rally, unless the fall is the result of a collision between the players. In that case, a let is allowed.
If the player has hit a winning ball, no let is allowed.
If an object from outside the court lands on the court, a let is allowed. (e.g. ball from another court, or the marker's pen)
If a player loses his racket, he may continue playing as long as there is no obstruction or distraction. In that case, the opponent wins the rally.
Even if the ball hits the player's racket while he is not holding it, the opponent wins the rally.
A player who deliberately throws the racket (or anything else) should be penalized in accordance with the penalty measures.
Disease
No recovery period is granted in the event of:
Nausea, cramps or shortness of breath, nor for a previously known complaint such as asthma.
A player may always forfeit a game, take the 90 second rest and then continue playing. This may only be done once, the second time he must forfeit the match.
If a player vomits on the court, the opponent wins the match, regardless of whether the player recovers and is able to continue playing.
Injuries
• The correct method to deal with an injury situation depends on how the injury occurred.
• First, the referee must decide whether the injury is real. If it is not, the referee must demand that the player play on immediately, or forfeit a game, take the standard rest and then continue playing, or forfeit the match.
• When a player concedes a game or the match, he retains the points scored in the match up to that point.
• If an injury occurs, it is important to clearly note who was serving and from which side.
• A decision to restart play must be made by the player, not the referee.
The referee is therefore responsible for:
• Determining the authenticity of the injury.
• Determining the nature of the injury (own fault, contributed by opponent or caused by opponent)
• Informing the players of his decision regarding the nature of the injury and the applicable rules.
• Asking the intention of the injured player (stop, continue playing, possibly use recovery period)
• Determining and maintaining the permitted recovery period.
There are 3 types of injury:
1. Self-inflicted.
2. Partly caused by opponent (accidentally)
3. Caused by the opponent.
Before the referee can make a decision and give consequences regarding an injury, he must first decide which category the injury falls into.
He must also report this to the players.
1. Self-inflicted:
This is a clear injury where the opponent is not to blame. For example: muscle or joint disorder, hit with the racket by standing too close,
hit in the face or head, bumping into walls.
Decision: The player may use 3 minutes recovery period, if he is not ready, he may then forfeit a game and use the 90 seconds rest time and continue playing, or forfeit the match.
2. Co-caused (accidentally):
This is an injury that occurs accidentally from a situation involving both players, e.g. a collision when running in/out for the ball.
Ruling: The referee will allow 1 hour to recover, or more if it fits into the tournament or competition schedule. Playing competition matches in one evening,
means that all matches must be completed that evening; playing a tournament over several days may mean that the match can be continued until the next day.
The injured player must resume the match after the allowed recovery period, or forfeit the match.
3. Caused by the opponent:
This is an injury caused solely by the opponent, e.g.:
Excessive swing of the racket, obvious and deliberate physical contact, racket leaves the opponent's hand and hits the player.
Decision: The referee must in all cases impose a penalty on the opponent, but if the player cannot continue playing, he wins the match.
If the injured player is bleeding, the match is immediately awarded to him, otherwise he must request a recovery period.
All points and games already earned are kept by a penalized player.
Bleeding
If a player starts bleeding, he must leave the court immediately. No game may be played with visible bleeding, an uncovered open wound, or bloody clothing.
Referee responsibilities/decisions:
- The referee will decide how much time is reasonable to recover from the bleeding and to change clothes, etc.
- A player who is not ready to resume play within the allotted time may concede a game and use the 90-second rest. He must then resume play or concede the match.
- If the referee decides that the bleeding is caused by an injury caused by the opponent, the referee must award the match to the player.
- In the case of (e.g.) a nosebleed, not caused by a collision, the player must leave the court. The referee allows a reasonable recovery period.
- If bloodstains appear on the court, the referee must apply the rules regarding making the court unusable.
2nd time blood.
If a player has already been given time to close a wound and stop the bleeding, no further recovery time will be allowed.
In the event of a second occurrence of bleeding from a wound, the player must forfeit the game, use the 90-second rest period and then resume play, or forfeit the match.
If the bandage or plaster that has been applied falls off again during play, the referee must consider this as a second bleeding, unless the wound is clearly clean and dry.
Injury example situations and decision:
1. Player with asthma wants to stop using his respirator:
This is not allowed. However, he may give up a game and use the 90 seconds.
2. Player thinks he's going to throw up:
He must continue playing or forfeit the game and use the 90 seconds.
3. Player throws up on the court:
If the court is unusable, he loses the match. Otherwise, he must continue playing or forfeit the game and use the 90 seconds.
4. Player stops suddenly, grabs calf and claims injury. There is no blood:
He may use a 3-minute recovery period (if the referee believes the situation to be genuine), then continue playing or concede the game and use the 90 seconds.
5. Player trips over own shoelace, hits head against wall. There is no blood:
He may use a 3-minute recovery period, then continue playing or forfeit the match.
6. Player spontaneously gets a nosebleed (not from a collision):
Referee will allow a reasonable recovery period within the event schedule.
7. Player trips over own shoelace, hits his head against wall. Bleeding occurs:
Referee will allow a reasonable recovery period within the event schedule.
8. The players accidentally bump into each other, injuring one of them:
Referee will allow 1 hour recovery period, and more time if match schedule allows.
9. A player loses grip on his racket, and hits the opponent with it:
If the injured player requires a period of recovery, he wins the match.
10. After an injury through his own fault, a player returns to the court. Then the wound starts bleeding again:
He must immediately stop and forfeit the game and use the 90 seconds, or forfeit the match.
11. After an injury partly caused by the opponent, the player returns to the court. Then the wound starts bleeding again:
He must immediately stop and forfeit the game and use the 90 seconds, or forfeit the match.
Conditions on the track
The referee is responsible for the condition of the court before play begins.
The court must be in good condition, ready for play, and there must be nothing lying on the court floor.
Players sometimes want to put their watch, wedding ring or wallet on the floor (for the tin) during the game. This is not allowed.
It may happen that the conditions on the court change during the game (e.g. leaking roof). In this case, the game will be continued on another court, with the score at the time of the stoppage being maintained.
The changing (failure) of the light is such a case.
In such circumstances a let is played for the rally in which the change occurred.
No let may be called if a ball hits a hinge, crack or door handle. At the start of the match, the players have accepted those court conditions.
Sweat drops are not a change in conditions. No let is allowed if the ball hits a sweat spot. If a player falls and the court becomes wet, the spot may be cleaned at the request of a player.
Conduct on the Course. Rule 17
If the referee finds that a player is misbehaving on the court, this must be penalized.
The violations may include:
• Audible or visible gestures.
• Verbal or physical abuse.
• Comments on the race management
• Racket and/or ball misuse
• Coaching (except between games)
• Intentional physical contact
• Excessive racket swing
• Unfair hitting.
• Late for the job
• Dangerous game
• Wasting/trailing time
The referee may impose a penalty depending on and appropriate to the severity of the offence.
The first punishment may be severe (e.g. a game), but a second punishment for a repeated violation must always be more severe than the first punishment.
When a referee has to impose a penalty, it is common to use this wording:
Conduct warning (name)......
Conduct stroke against (name)....
Conduct game against (name)....
Conduct match against (name)...
This includes a simple explanation of what the punishment is for.
...back on track too late.
...racket abuse.
...unnecessary physical contact.
The marker does not have to repeat everything the referee has said. Announcing the decision and the score is sufficient.
Penalties in the course of the game.
If the referee awards a conduct stroke, the receiver becomes the server, or the server wins a point.
If the referee awards a conduct stroke between rallies, the previous rally stands and the stroke is added to the score.
If the server receives a conduct stroke, one point is added, but sides are not changed.
If the referee awards a conduct stroke, he must explain the reason for this, so that there can be no confusion in the event of a subsequent offence.
If a referee has to award a conduct game, the opponent keeps all points won. (e.g. it is recorded 9-4)
If a conduct game is awarded between games, there is no additional rest period, and the game is recorded as 9-0.
If a referee must award a conduct match, the opponent retains all games and points won. All games not played are 9-0.
Coaching
Players may only be coached between games.
Words or shouts of encouragement do not constitute coaching.
The use of communication aids during the competition is prohibited.
Coaching during the game will be penalized by imposing a penalty on the player being coached.
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