The Unit 174 Board of Directors is
committed to promoting acceptable player behavior at all times. In accordance
with Laws 74, 80F, 81C4, 90A, 91, and 92A (Laws of Duplicate Bridge) the
following policy outlines what is expected of all players during club games and
unit tournaments and special events.
The ultimate purpose of the Z-T
policy is to assure a pleasant atmosphere for all players.
Below are some examples of commendable
behavior, which, while not required, will significantly contribute to the
improved atmosphere:
·
Being a good 'host' or 'guest' at the table.
·
Greeting others in a friendly manner.
·
Praising the bidding and/or play of the opponents.
·
Having two clearly completed convention
cards readily available to the opponents.
The following are some examples of behavior
that will not be tolerated:
·
Badgering, rudeness, insinuations, intimidation,
profanity, threats, or violence.
·
Negative comments concerning opponents' or partner's
play or bidding.
·
Constant and gratuitous lessons and analyses at the
table.
·
Loud and disruptive arguing with a director's ruling.
If a player at the table behaves in
an unacceptable manner, the director should be called immediately.
Annoying behavior, embarrassing remarks, or any other conduct which might
interfere with the enjoyment of the game is specifically prohibited by Law 74A.
Law 91A gives the director the authority to assess disciplinary penalties.
The following procedures have been
given to the tournament directors and club managers for implementation.
1.
The director should be called whenever behavior is not
consistent with the guidelines outlined above.
2.
The director, when called, shall make an assessment of
the situation. If it is established that there was unacceptable behavior, an
immediate ¼ board disciplinary penalty (3 IMP in team games) shall be assigned
to all offenders. This may involve any one or all four players at the table
irrespective of who initiated the unacceptable behavior. If both members of a
partnership are guilty, the penalties are additive (¼ board EACH = ½ board!).
3.
If it is determined that the same offender is
responsible for a second offense in the same event, the offender(s) shall be
ejected from future competition in that game. An offender removed from an event
shall be deemed to have not played in the game and no masterpoints will be
awarded. All previously obtained results shall, however, remain valid as to
their effect upon other competitors.
4.
Whenever a director encounters a second disciplinary
incident involving the same player in a 12-month period, the director is to file
a disciplinary report with the recorder and the Unit president. The Unit
president will determine whether a disciplinary committee shall be formed to
consider further disciplinary action.
5.
The director may file a disciplinary report after the
first incident if he/she believes the severity of the offense so warrants.