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2024 USA Pickleball Rulebook
USA PICKLEBALL was organized to perpetuate the growth and advancement of pickleball on a national level and to set goals for worldwide play and recognition. USA Pickleball is committed to furthering the growth and development of pickleball among all players.
USA Pickleball is the National Governing Body of American pickleball that formulates and interprets all the rules of the sport in a manner that preserves the traditional nature and character of the sport and the skills traditionally required to play the sport. All such decisions by USA Pickleball are final and not appealable.
The purpose of the rulebook is to provide pickleball players with the rules necessary for recreational, social, organized league and tournament play. Some sections of this rulebook are designed to be used only for the conduct of USA Pickleball-sanctioned tournaments. A sanctioned tournament allows players to obtain a rating on a national or international basis.
Non-sanctioned tournaments may also use these sections as guidelines. Tournament Directors for non-sanctioned tournaments may be flexible in the use of these guidelines to better fit the skills, ages, and diversity of their players. USA Pickleball enthusiastically encourages these non-sanctioned tournaments to promote knowledge and growth of the sport, and skill development, while having fun playing pickleball.
USA Pickleball published the sport’s first official rulebook in March 1984.
These rules will not be changed without good cause. Comments and opinions are always welcome. If you have any questions about the rules, please visit:
USA Pickleball
Website: usapickleball.org
Cover Photo and Design Credit: Steve Taylor, Digital Spatula
© 2010; revised 2024
SIGNIFICANT RULE CHANGES FOR 2024
Correcting Server, Receiver and Player Position Errors (4.B.9)
Faults for incorrect server, incorrect receiver and player position errors are eliminated. The referee will now correct any such player errors before calling the score. Rule 4.B.9 is the primary rule text. Several other rules have been modified or deleted to correlate with this change.
Draping Net (2.C.6/11.L.5.b)
Rule 2.C.6 called for a replay when a ball goes over the net and hits a net that is draped on the ground (except on a serve) but only if the referee determined that the ball was affected by the draped net. This rule, and Rule 11.L.5.b for temporary nets, now call for a replay without qualification. A determination that the ball was affected by the draped net is now not required in officiated or non-officiated play.
Catch or Carry Ball on the Paddle (7.L)
Rule 7.L now makes catching or carrying a ball on the paddle a fault without having to determine that the catch or carry was deliberately done.
Conceding a Rally (13.E.4/13.E.5)
Rule 13.E.5 calls for a replay when a player overrules to their detriment a line judge’s ‘out’ call as ‘in.’ The player or team may now choose to concede the rally to their opponent if they determine they would have been unable to return the ‘in’ ball.
Similarly, Rule 13.E.4 calls for a replay when the referee overturns a line judge’s out call as in. The player or team who benefitted from the referee’s ruling may now choose to concede the rally to their opponent if they determine they would have been unable to return the ‘in’ ball.
Medical Time-Outs (10.B.2.c)
A player is now allowed to use available standard time-outs after the 15-minute medical time-out has expired to allow more time before the player must retire from the match.
NOTE related to medical time-outs: Case 5-23 in the USAP Casebook establishes how and when a player can rescind a requested medical time-out, and that the medical time-out would not be charged to the player. The ruling has been revised to require that the requested medical time-out be charged to the player.
Paddle Specifications (2.E.2/2.E.5.a/2.E.5.c)
Paddle specifications have been updated to address new and emerging paddle technology and features and to clarify the alterations that players are allowed to make to certified paddles.
Mini-Singles (12.O)
Mini-singles is currently an approved format. The specific rules governing mini-singles are now incorporated in the Rulebook.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 – The Game …………………………………………………. 1
Section 2 – Court and Equipment …………………………………. 3
Section 3 – Definitions ………………………………………………. 11
Section 4 – The Serve, Service Sequence, & Scoring Rules 17
Section 5 – Service and Side Selection Rules……………….. 28
Section 6 – Line Call Rules ………………………………………… 20
Section 7 – Fault Rules ………………………………………………. 33
Section 8 – Dead Ball Rules ……………………………………….. 35
Section 9 – Non-Volley-Zone Rules ……………………………. 36
Section 10 – Time-Out Rules ……………………………………… 38
Section 11 – Other Rules ……………………………………………. 43
Section 12 – Sanctioned Tournament Policies………………. 48
Section 13 – Tournament Management and Officiating … 57
Index……………………………………………………………………….. 73
SECTION 1 – THE GAME
Rules
Pickleball is a paddle sport played using a special perforated ball on a 20-foot-by-44-foot courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More with a tennis-type net. The courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More is divided into right/even and leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More/odd service courts and non-volley zones. See Figure 2-1.
The ball is served diagonally across the net to the opponent’s service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More using an underhand motion. The ball is struck back and forth across the net until a player fails to return the ball in accordance with the rules.
Points are scored only by the serving side, when the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or the server’s team wins the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, or the opposing side commits a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More continues to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, alternating service courts, until the serving side loses the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More or commits a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
Typically, the first side scoring 11 points and leading by at least a 2-point margin wins. For example, if both sides are tied at 10 points, then play continues until one side wins by 2 points.
Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles. Doubles is the most popular.
The Players
Pickleball is a game that requires cooperation and courtesy. A sense of fair play from giving the opponent the benefit of any doubt is essential in maintaining the game’s underlying principles of fun and competition. To that end:
- All points played are treated the same regardless of their importance; match point is as important as the first point of the match
- Either partner in doubles can make calls, especially line calls; there is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More place in the game for one partner telling another, “that was my call, not yours”
- Prompt calls eliminate the ‘two chance option’. For example, a player cannot claim a hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More from a ball rolling on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More after they hit a ball ‘out’; they gave up their ability to call the hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More by choosing instead to hit the ball
- Players without the benefit of a referee strive to cooperate when confronted with a situation not covered by the Rulebook. Possible outcomes can be a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More, allowing the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More to stand, or in extreme cases, asking for a referee to resolve a dispute.
- Where possible, rules accommodate players with various adaptive needs
- Players avoid wearing clothing that closely matches the ball color.
- Players should not question or comment on an opponent’s call, although any player may appeal a rally-ending line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.
UNIQUE FEATURES:
Two-Bounce Rule.
After the ball is served, each side must make one groundstrokeA strike of the ball after the ball has bounced. More prior to volleying the ball.
Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)The 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
An area that extends 7 feet from the net on each side, within which a player is not allowed to strike the ball without it first bouncing. More specifically, the whole courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More from net to baseline is the same and can be freely used for all play with one exception: volleying. The first seven feet, the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More, cannot be used for volleying.
Wheelchair
A wheelchair playerAny person, with or without a disability, who plays the game in a wheelchair. The wheelchair is considered part of the player’s body. This can be a player with a disability or anyone that wants to play in a wheelchair. More may allow the ball to bounce twice before returning the ball. The second bounce can be anywhere on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More.
SECTION 2 – COURT AND EQUIPMENT
2.A. CourtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More Specifications. The dimensions and measurements for the standard pickleball courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More are:
2.A.1. The courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More shall be a rectangle 20 feet (6.10 m) wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More and 44 feet (13.41 m) longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More for both singles and doubles matches. See Figure 2-1.
2.A.2. CourtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More measurements shall be made to the outside of the lines. All lines should be 2 inches (5.08 cm) wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More and the same color, clearly contrasting with the color of the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More.
2.A.3. A minimum playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More area measuring 30 feet (9.14 m) wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More and 60 feet (18.29 m) longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More is recommended. A 10-foot (3.05-m) surrounding margin with a larger size of 40 feet (12.19 m) by 64 feet (19.51 m) is preferred.
2.A.4. (Wheelchair) The recommended playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More area for Wheelchair play is 44 feet (13.41 m) wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More and 74 feet (22.55 m) longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More. The size for Wheelchair play in a stadium courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More is 50 feet (15.24 m) wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More by 80 feet (24.38 m) longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More.
2.B. Lines and Areas.
The lines and areas of the standard pickleball courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More are explained below. Also, see Figure 2-1.
2.B.1. Baselines. The lines parallel to the net at each end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
2.B.2. Sidelines. The lines perpendicular to the net on each longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
2.B.3. Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)The 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More. The area of courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More bounded by three lines and the net: the parallel line 7 feet (2.13 m) from the net (non-volley- zone line) and the two sidelines, which are perpendicular to the net. All NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More lines are inside the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
2.B.4. Service CourtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More. The area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
2.B.5. Centerline. The line down the center of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More extending from the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More to the baseline separating the oddThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More and even courts.
2.B.6. Right/Even CourtThe service area on the right side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the right/even court when their score is even. More. The service area on the right side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More when facing the net.
2.B.7. Left/Odd CourtThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More. The service area on the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More when facing the net.
2.C. Net Specifications.
2.C.1. Material. The net may be made of any mesh fabric material that will not allow a ball to pass through it.
2.C.2. Posts. Net postsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More should be 22 feet from the inside of one post to the inside of the other post. The maximum diameter of the net post should be 3 inches.
2.C.3. Size. The net length should be at least 21 feet 9 inches (6.63 m) extending from one post to the other. The net height should be at least 30 inches (0.76 m) from top to bottom.
2.C.4. Edge. The top of the net should be edged with a 2-inch (5.08-cm) white binding over a cord or cable running through the binding. This binding must rest upon the cord or cable.
2.C.5. Center Strap and Height. A center strap is recommended for permanent net and must be placed at the center of the net to enable easy adjustment to the 34-inch (86.36-cm) requirement at center. The top shall be 36 inches (91.44 cm) high at the sidelines.
2.C.6. Draping Net. Except on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More will occur if the ball goes over the net and hits a draping net on the ground.
The ball pictured on the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More, with larger holes, is customarily used for indoor play, and the ball pictured on the right is customarily used for outdoor play. Colors may vary. However, all approved balls are acceptable for indoor or outdoor play. The complete list of approved balls is on the USA PICKLEBALL website
2.D. Ball Specifications.
2.D.1. Design. The ball shall have a minimum of 26 to a maximum of 40 circular holes, with spacing of the holes and overall design of the ball conforming to flight characteristics. The ball must have a manufacturer’s or supplier’s name or logo printed or embossed on the surface.
2.D.2. Approval. The Tournament Director will choose the tournament ball. The ball selected for play in any USA PICKLEBALL sanctioned tournament must be named on the official list of approved balls posted on the USA PICKLEBALL website: USA Pickleball.org
2.D.3. Construction. The ball shall be made of a durable material molded with a smooth surface and free of texturing. The ball will be one uniform color, except for identification markings. The ball may have a slight ridge at the seam, as longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as it does not significantly impact the ball’s flight characteristics. (See Figure 2-2.)
2.E. Paddle Specifications.
2.E.1. Material. The paddle may be made of any material deemed safe and not prohibited by these rules. The paddle shall be made of rigid, non-compressible material meeting the criteria located on the USA Pickleball.org website.
2.E.2. Surface. The paddle’s hitting surface shall not contain delamination, holes, cracks, rough textures, or indentations that break the paddle skin or surface, or any objects or features that allow a player to impart excessive spin on the ball.
2.E.2.a. Reflection. The paddle’s hitting surface shall not be adversely reflective, such that it has the potential to negatively affect the vision of opposing player(s).
2.E.3. Size. The combined length and width, including any edge guard and butt cap, shall not exceed 24 inches (60.96 cm). The paddle length cannot exceed 17 inches (43.18 cm). There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More restriction on paddle thickness.
2.E.4. Weight. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More restriction on paddle weight.
2.E.5. Alterations. Altered paddles must meet all specifications.
2.E.5.a. Player alterations or additions to a commercially produced paddle as certified, may include items such as edge guard tape/replacements, weighted tape, weights for an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) integrated weight system, changes to the grip size via inserts, grip wraps, OEM interchangeable grips, OEM replacement paddle faces, and name decals and/or other identification markings on the paddle face.
2.E.5.b. Decals and tape can extend noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More farther than 1.0 inch (2.54 cm) above the top of the grip nor more than 0.5 inch (1.27cm) inside the outer edge of a paddle or, ifan edge guard is in place, 0.5 inch inside the edge guard.
2.E.5.c. The only permissible handwritten pen markings allowed on the paddle’s playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More must be for identification purposes only (name, signature, phone, email address). NoA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More aftermarket graphics are allowed on a commercially made paddle.
2.E.6. Prohibited Surface Features and Mechanical Features.
2.E.6.a. Anti-skid paint or any paint textured with sand, rubber particles, or any material that causes additional spin.
2.E.6.b. Rubber and synthetic rubber.
2.E.6.c. Sandpaper characteristics.
2.E.6.d. Moving parts that can increase head momentumMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More.
2.E.7. Model Designation. Model Designation. The paddle must have a manufacturer-provided and clearly marked brand and model name or model number on the paddle. The brand and model information may be shown on the paddle by a manufacturer affixed decal.
2.F. Equipment Approval and Authorization.
2.F.1. USA PICKLEBALL Approved Paddle List – Players are responsible for confirming that the paddle they are using for match play is approved and listed as “Pass” on the USA PICKLEBALL Approved Paddle List. The lists of approved equipment may be posted on the USA PICKLEBALL website: USA Pickleball.org.
2.F.1.a. Violation. If at any point during the tournament it is determined that a player is using a paddle that violates any of the paddle specifications or is not listed on the USA PICKLEBALL Approved Paddle List as “Pass”, the following penalties apply.
2.F.1.a.1. If the violation is identified prior to the match starting, the player may switch to a paddle listed as Pass on the USA PICKLEBALL Approved Paddle List without penalty.
2.F.1.a.2. If the violation is identified after the match has started, the player or team forfeits only the match being played.
2.F.1.a.3. If the violation is discovered after the scoresheet is returned to the tournament operations desk, the match results stand.
2.G. ApparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More.
2.G.1. Safety and DistractionPhysical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the judgment of the referee, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or ability to... More. A player may be required to change garments that are inappropriate.
2.G.2. DepictionsGraphics, insignias, pictures, and writing on apparel must be in good taste. More. Graphics, insignias, pictures, and writing on apparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More must be in good taste.
2.G.3. FootwearPickleball Footwear ~ Must have soles that do not mark or damage the court’s playing surface. Women's Pickleball Footwear Men's Pickleball Footwear More. Must have soles that do not mark or damage the court’s playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More.
2.G.4. Violation. The tournament director has the authority to enforce apparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More changes. If the player refuses to comply with the apparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More rules, the tournament director may declare a forfeiture of the match.
SECTION 3 – DEFINITIONS
3.A.1 Ball In PlayThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More – The timeframe during which a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is played, from the hit of the ball to make the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More until the ball becomes dead. (See also 3.A.20 “Live BallThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More”)
3.A.2 CarryHitting the ball in such a way that it does not bounce away from the paddle but is carried along on the face of the paddle. More – Hitting the ball in such a way that it does not bounce away from the paddle but is carried along on the face of the paddle.
3.A.3 CoachingCommunication of any information, including verbal, nonverbal, and electronic, from someone other than a player’s partner, that a player or team may act upon to gain an advantage or help them avoid a rules violation. More – Communication of any information, including verbal, nonverbal, and electronic, from someone other than a player’s partner, that a player or team may act upon to gain an advantage or help them avoid a rules violation.
3.A.4 CourtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More – The area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines.
3.A.5 Cross-CourtThe court diagonally opposite of the court from which the ball was last struck. More – The courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More diagonally opposite of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More from which the ball was last struck.
3.A.6 Dead BallA ball that is no longer in play. More – A ball that is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More longer in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
3.A.7 DistractionPhysical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the judgment of the referee, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or ability to... More – Physical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the
judgment of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the
ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the
paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or
ability to hit the ball.
3.A.8 Double BounceWhen the ball bounces twice on one side before it is returned. More – When the ball bounces twice on one side before it is returned.
3.A.9 Double HitHitting the ball twice before it is returned. More – Hitting the ball twice before it is returned.
3.A.10 EjectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More – A behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More from the tournament
by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More longer play in
any matches.
3.A.11 Expulsion – A behavior violation so flagrant that the Tournament Director prohibits the player from playing in any current and any future brackets of the tournament. In addition, the player shall leave the venue immediately and not return for the remainder of the tournament.
3.A.12 FaultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More – A rules violation that results in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More and/or the end of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
3.A.13 First ServerIn doubles, the player who shall serve from the right/even service court after a side out, according to the team’s score. More – In doubles, the player who shall serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More from the right/even service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More after a side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More, according to the team’s score.
3.A.14 Forfeit – An egregious behavior violation or a combination of technical warnings and/or technical fouls that result in either a game or match being awarded to the opponent.
3.A.15 GroundstrokeA strike of the ball after the ball has bounced. More – A strike of the ball after the ball has bounced.
3.A.16 HinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More – Any transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More that, in the opinion of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball.
3.A.17 Imaginary extensionA term used to describe where a line would extend if it projected beyond its current end point. Players and referees are to project where the line would extend if it were not limited to the boundaries of the playing area. More – A term used to describe where a line would extend if it projected beyond its current end point. Players and referees are to project where the line would extend if it were not limited to the boundaries of the playing area.
3.A.18 Left/Odd CourtThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More – The service area on the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, when facing the net. The starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More in doubles or the singles serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More should be positioned on the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More/odd side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More when their score is oddThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More.
3.A.19 Line CallA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More – A loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More and/or players that a live ballThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More has not touched in the required courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More space. The preferred word to indicate a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More is “OUTA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More. Words such as “wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More”, “longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More”, “noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More”, “deepA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” are also acceptable.
3.A.20 Live BallThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More: – The point in time when the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More or serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More (or server’s partner per rule 4.D.1) starts to call the score. (See also 3.A.1 “Ball in PlayThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More”)
3.A.21 MomentumMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More – MomentumMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More is a property of a body in motionMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More, such as a player executing a volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More, that causes the player to continue in motionMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentumMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
3.A.22 Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)The 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More – The 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More relating to NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More faults. All lines bounding the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More are part of the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More. The NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.)
3.A.23 Officiating team – Personnel under the leadership of the Tournament Head Referee on or off the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More, including Lead and Second Referees, Tracking Referee, Video ReplayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More Referee, and Line JudgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More.
3.A.24 Paddle Grip AdjustmentsNon-mechanical devices that change the size of the grip or stabilize the hand on the grip. More – Non-mechanical devices that change the size of the grip or stabilize the hand on the grip.
3.A.25 Paddle HeadThe paddle, excluding the handle. More – The paddle, excluding the handle.
3.A.26 Permanent ObjectAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More – Any object on or near the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, including hanging over the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceilingAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, wallsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, fencingAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, lighting fixturesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, net postsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, net post legsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, the stands and seats for spectatorsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, spectators when in their recognized positionsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, and all other objects around and above the court.Any object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More
3.A.27 Plane of the NetThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More – The imaginary vertical planesThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More on all sides extending beyond the net system.
3.A.28 Playing SurfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More – The courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and the area surrounding the courtThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More designated for playing.
3.A.29 ProfanityWords, phrases or hand gestures, common or uncommon, which are normally considered inappropriate in “polite company” or around children. Typically included are four letter words used as expletives or verbal intensifiers. More – Words, phrases, or hand gestures, common or uncommon, which are normally considered inappropriate in “polite company” or around children. Typically included are four-letter words used as expletives or verbal intensifiers.
3.A.30 RallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More – Continuous playContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More that occurs after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More and before a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
3.A.31 ReceiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More – The player who is positioned diagonally opposite the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More to return the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serveThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More may not be the correct receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More.
3.A.32 ReplayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More – Any rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More that is restartedAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More.
3.A.33 RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More – A player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent.
3.A.34 Right/Even CourtThe service area on the right side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the right/even court when their score is even. More – The service area on the right side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, when facing the net. The starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More in doubles or the singles serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More should be positioned on the right/even courtThe service area on the right side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the right/even court when their score is even. More when their score is even.
3.A.35 Second ServeIn doubles, a term used to describe the condition when a serving team loses the first of its two allocated serves. More – In doubles, a term used to describe the condition when a serving team loses the first of its two allocated serves.
3.A.36 Second ServerIn doubles, the first server’s partner. The second server serves after the first server loses serve. More – In doubles, the first server’s partner. The second serverIn doubles, the first server’s partner. The second server serves after the first server loses serve. More serves after the first serverIn doubles, the player who shall serve from the right/even service court after a side out, according to the team’s score. More loses serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
3.A.37 ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More – The initial strike of the ball to start the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
3.A.38 ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More – The player who initiates a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More.
3.A.39 Service CourtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More – The area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
3.A.40 Serving AreaThe area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the court centerline and each sideline. More – The area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More centerline and each sideline.
3.A.41 Side OutThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More – The awarding of the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
3.A.42 Starting ServerFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More – For each doubles team, the player designated to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director.
3.A.43 Technical FoulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More – A referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More shall be issued if one technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More has already been given and a second technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More is warranted; or when warranted by a player’s or team’s action, based on the referee’s judgement.
3.A.44 Technical WarningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More – A referee’s warning of a behavioral violation given to a player or team. Points are neither awarded nor deducted for a technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More.
3.A.45 Verbal WarningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More – A referee’s warning of a behavioral violation. A single verbal warningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More may be issued to each team once per match.
3.A.46 VolleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More – During a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, a strike of the ball outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of the air before the ball has bounced.
3.A.47 Wheelchair PlayerAny person, with or without a disability, who plays the game in a wheelchair. The wheelchair is considered part of the player’s body. This can be a player with a disability or anyone that wants to play in a wheelchair. More – Any person, with or without a disability, who plays the game in a wheelchair. The wheelchair is considered part of the player’s body. This can be a player with a disability or anyone that wants to play in a wheelchair.
3.A.48 WithdrawalA player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket. More – A player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket.
SECTION 4 – THE SERVE, SERVICE SEQUENCE, AND SCORING RULES
4.A. The ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
4.A.1. The entire score must be called before the ball is served.
4.A.2. Placement. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More must serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to the correct service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More (the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More diagonally opposite the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More). The serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More may clear or touch the net and must clear the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More and the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More lines. The serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More may land on any other service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More line
4.A.3. If the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More clears the net or hits the net and then touches the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More or the receiver’s partner, it is a point for the serving team.
4.A.4. The moment the ball is served: (See Fig 4-1 & 4-2)
4.A.4.a. At least one foot must be on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More behind the baseline.
4.A.4.b. Neither of the server’s feet may touch the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More on or inside the baseline.
4.A.4.c. Neither of the server’s feet may touch outside the imaginary extensions of the sideline or centerline.
4.A.4.d. (The serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More shall be made with only one hand releasing the ball. While some natural rotation of the ball is expected during any release of the ball from the hand, the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More shall not impart manipulation or spin on the ball with any part of the body immediately) Both rear wheels must be on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More behind the baseline and may not touch the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More on or inside the baseline or outside the imaginary extensions of the sideline or centerline.
4.A.5. The serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More shall be made with only one hand releasing the ball. While some natural rotation of the ball is expected during any release of the ball from the hand, the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More shall not impart manipulation or spin on the ball with any part of the body immediately prior to the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. Exceptions: Any player may use their paddle to perform the drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More (see Rule 4.A.8.a). A player who has the use of only one hand may also use their paddle to release the ball to perform the volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
4.A.6. In officiated matches, the server’s release of the ball must be visible to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More and receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More. In matches without a referee, the server’s release of the ball must be visible to the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if the release is not visible to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More or receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More.
4.A.7. The VolleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. The volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More is made by striking the ball without bouncing the ball off the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More and can be made with either a forehand or backhand motion. A proper volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More includes the following elements:
4.A.7.a. The server’s arm must be moving in an upward arc at the time the ball is struck with the paddle. (See Figure 4-3.)
4.A.7.b. The highest point of the paddle headThe paddle, excluding the handle. More must not be above the highest part of the wrist (where the wrist joint bends) when the paddle strikes the ball. (See Figures 4-1 and 4-2)
4.A.7.c. Contact with the ball must not be made above the waist. (See Figures 4-1 and 4-3 above)
4.A.8. The Drop ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. The drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More is made by striking the ball after it bounces on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More and can be made with either a forehand or backhand motion. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More restriction how many times the ball can bounce nor where the ball can bounce on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More. A proper drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More includes the following elements:
4.A.8.a. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More must release the ball from one hand only or drop it off the paddle face from any natural (un-aided) height.
4.A.8.b. When releasing the ball, the ball shall not be propelled in any direction or in any manner prior to striking the ball to make the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
4.A.8.c. The restrictions on the VolleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More in Rule 4.A.7 do not apply to the drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
4.A.9. ReplayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More or FaultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. In officiated matches, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More may call for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More if they are not certain that one or more of the requirements of the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More has been met. The replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More must be called before the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall call a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if they are certain that one or more of the requirements of the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, other than Rule 4.A.6, has not been met. In non- officiated matches, if the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More determines that manipulation of spin has been imparted prior to the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, or the release of the ball is not visible, the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More may call for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More before the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. In non-officiated matches, the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More has noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More authority to call for replays or faults for service motion violations.
4.A.9.a. The remedies for service motion violations are as follows:
4.B. Player Positions.
4.B.1. ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More and ReceiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More. The correct serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More and receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More and their positions are determined
by the score and the players’ starting positions in the game.
4.B.2. At the start of each game, the starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More begins the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More from the side of the
courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More dictated by the score.
4.B.3. Each player will serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More until a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is lost or a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More is declared against the player or
team.
4.B.4. As longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More holds serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, after each point the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More will alternate serving
from the right/even and leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More/odd sides of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
4.B.5. Singles.
4.B.5.a. If the player’s score is even (0, 2, 4 …), the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More must be made from the right/even
serving areaThe area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the court centerline and each sideline. More and be received in the right/even service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More by the opponent.
4.B.5.b. If the player’s score is oddThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More (1, 3, 5 …), the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More must be made from the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More/odd serving areaThe area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the court centerline and each sideline. More and be received in the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More/odd service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More by the opponent.
4.B.5.c. After the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More loses the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More or faults, a side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More will occur and service is awarded
to the opponent.
4.B.6. Doubles. Both players on a team will serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More before a side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More is declared, except at the start of each game, when only the starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More will serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. The starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More of each game is therefore designated as “ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More 2” for scoring purposes, since a side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More will occur once a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is lost or a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More is committed by the serving team and service is awarded to the opposing team.
14.B.6.a. At the start of each side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More, service begins in the right/even serving areaThe area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the court centerline and each sideline. More.
4.B.6.b. When the team’s score is even (0, 2, 4 …), the team’s starting server’s correct position is at the right/even serving areaThe area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the court centerline and each sideline. More. When the team’s score is oddThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More (1, 3, 5…), the starting server’s correct position is at the left/odd courtThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More.
4.B.6.c. After each side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More, service begins with the player correctly positioned on the right/even side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More according to the team’s score. This player is referred to as “ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More 1” and the partner is “ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More 2.”
4.B.6.d. ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More 1 will serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, alternating service sides after each point is won, until a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is lost or the server’s team commits a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
4.B.6.e. After ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More 1’s team loses a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More or faults, ServerThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More 2 will serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More from the correct position and will alternate serving positions as longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as the serving team continues to win points.
4.B.7. Partner Positions. In doubles, with the exception of the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More (see 4.A.4) there is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More restriction on the position of any player, as longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as all players are on their respective team’s side of the net. They can be positioned on or off the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. The correct serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More must serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More from the correct service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More, and the correct receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More must receive the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
4.B.8. Before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs, any player may ask the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More for the score, correct
serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More, correct player position, and may challenge/confirm the called score.
Any player may ask any one or more of these questions.
Reason: This change simply allows for one team to ask if the opposing team is in the
correct position and/or using the correct player. Although it is rare that a team will ask if
the opponent is “correct”, previously this was not allowed per the rules. This change will
put in writing that any player may ask any question.
Scenario: The incorrect serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More is ready to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls the score. Before
the incorrect serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More serves, the receiver’s partner says, “Hey is that the correct serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More?”
The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More stops play, informs everyone that it is, in fact, the incorrect serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More. The
serving team changes servers and the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More recalls the score.
Old: (Rules 4.B.8 and 4.B.9. Summary) Any player may ask any
player/position/score questions pertaining to their own team.
4.b.9. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will confirm and correct, if necessary, that all players are in the correct position and the correct serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More has the ball before calling the score.
4.B.9a. When an incorrect player serves or receives, or a player serves from an incorrect position, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will immediately stop play and identify the fault(s).
4.B.9b. Incorrect Player or Position. When an incorrect serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or player position is discovered after a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, game, or match has ended, the offending team can be faulted until the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs or prior to the scoresheet being returned to the tournament operation’s desk. A point scored during the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More by the offending team will not count. Any previous points scored by the incorrect serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or with players in the incorrect positions will stand. After a match is completed, an incorrect player or position error may not be corrected after the scoresheet has been returned to tournament operations personnel.
4.C. Readiness. Any player may indicate “not ready” prior to the start of the score being called.
4.C.1. One of the following signals must be used to indicate “not ready”: 1) raising the paddle above the head, 2) raising the non-paddle hand above the head, 3) completely turning their back to the net.
4.C.2. After the start of the score being called, “not ready” signals will be ignored, unless there is a hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More. A player or team outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of position is not considered a hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More.
4.D. Calling the Score. The score shall be called after the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More and receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More are (or should be) in position and all players are (or should be) ready to play.
4.D.1. In non-officiated play, the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More normally calls the score, but the server’s partner may call the score if the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More is unable to call the score. The person calling the score shall not change during the game unless there is a voice impairment.
4.E. The 10-Second Rule. Once the score has been called, the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More is allowed 10 seconds to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More the ball.
4.E.1. If the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More exceeds 10 seconds to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More will be declared.
4.E.2. After the score has been called, if the serving team changes serving courts, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall call “Time”, allow all players to reposition, and then recall the score to re-start the 10-second count. In a non- officiated match, the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More will allow for the same repositioning and will recall the score to re-start the 10 second count.
4.F. Scoring. A singles player or doubles team scores points only when serving. Points may also be scored when technical fouls are called against the opposing side and their score is 0.
4.G. Points. A point is scored by serving the ball and winning the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
4 H. Winning the Game. The first side scoring the winning point wins.
4.I. Calling the Score in Singles Matches. The proper sequence for calling the score is serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More score then receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More score as two numbers. (e.g., “one – zero.”)
4.J. Calling the Score in Doubles Matches. The score is called as three numbers in doubles matches. The proper sequence for calling the score is: serving team’s score – receiving team’s score – the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More number (one or two), (e.g., “zero – one – one”). To start each game, the score will be called as “zero – zero – two.”
4.K. Wrong Score Called. If the wrong score is called, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More or any player may stop play before the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to correct the score. The rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More shall be replayed with the correct score called. After the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, play shall continue to the end of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More and the score correction made before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. After the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, a player who stops play to identify or ask for a score correction will have committed a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More and shall lose the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. A player who stops play after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to identify or ask for a score correction when the score was correctly called will have committed a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More and shall lose the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
4.L. Service Foot Faults. During the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, when the ball is struck, the server’s feet shall:
4.L.1. Not touch the area outside the imaginary extensionA term used to describe where a line would extend if it projected beyond its current end point. Players and referees are to project where the line would extend if it were not limited to the boundaries of the playing area. More of the sideline.
4.L.2. Not touch the area on the wrong side of the imaginary extensionA term used to describe where a line would extend if it projected beyond its current end point. Players and referees are to project where the line would extend if it were not limited to the boundaries of the playing area. More of the centerline.
4.L.3. Not touch the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, including the baseline.
4.M. Service Faults. During the service, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More against the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More resulting in loss of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More if:
4.M.1. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More serves from the incorrect serving areaThe area behind the baseline and on and between the imaginary extensions of the court centerline and each sideline. More.
4.M.2. The served ball touches the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or their partner, or anything the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or their partner is wearing or holding.
4.M.3. The served ball lands in the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More which includes the NVZThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More lines.
4.M.4. The served ball lands outside the service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More.
4.M.5. The served ball hits the net and lands inside the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
4.M.6. The served ball hits the net and lands outside the service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More.
4.M.7. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More uses an illegal serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More when performing the VolleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More (as explained in Rule 4.A.7) or the Drop ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More (as explained in Rule 4.A.8).
4.M.8. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More or their partner calls a time-out after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More has occurred.
4.M.9. The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More hits the ball to make the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More while the score is being called.
4.M.10.The serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More violates any of the rules listed in Rule 4.A.4
4.N. ReceiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More Faults. It is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More against the receiving team resulting in a point for the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More if:
4.N.1. The receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More or their partner is touched by or interferes with the flight of the ball before it bounces.
4.N.2. The receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More or their partner calls a time-out after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More has occurred.
The Rules Committee Considerations
The Rules Committee is committed to the following priorities when they approve rules:
- The first priority is preserving the integrity of the game. Nothing is more important to the committee than that.
- Second priority is what is best for the players; are there rule changes the committee can make to improve their experience, make it easier for players to learn, to play, etc.
- Third priority is what’s best for officiating; what can the committee do in rules space to make it less likely that players will argue with or get into conflicts with referees.
Those are the priorities applied to rule making – in that exact order. Now, let’s examine this rule change under the microscope of those three priorities.
First Priority? Preserve the integrity of the game.
If there is a rule in the game that can invite active or passive cheating at worst or prevent inaccurate calls at best, shouldn’t every player expect the Rules Committee to address it – for the good of the game? Can you think of anything that would damage the integrity of the game more than active or passive cheating? The Rules Committee cannot and will not let the game everyone enjoys be damaged by even a very small number of players who might usurp a rule to their advantage now or in the future. The future is, admittedly, more important in this change than the present case. That is perhaps why many may have a hard time initially understanding why this change has been enacted. The ‘let’ serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More rule opens up a loophole for inaccurate, (intentional or otherwise) calls. The Rules Committee is closing it.
Consider this scenario: You are in the winner’s bracket, three wins away from the MXD gold medal match where a Golden Ticket to Nationals awaits the winning team. This match does not yet qualify for a referee. This is an MMP National Qualifier event at the 3.5 level. You are serving for match point, up 10-9 in game three. You serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More and catch the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More leaning the wrong way. He hits his return of your serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More wideA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More and erroneously and immediately yells, “Let!”. You know there was noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More ‘let’ serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More but there’s nothing you can do about it. In the 2020 Rulebook, you MUST play a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More. It does noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More good to appeal to the Head Referee or Tournament Director because it’s a judgment call. You have just lost your match-point serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to someone who has made a horrible call and you know it. Is there any doubt where your mind will be at that instant and how longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More it will take you to reset after that obvious, blatant call? As the stakes get higher and higher for pros and amateur players who play in qualifying tournaments, whether for money or Golden Tickets, this loophole is a potential threat to the game. Pickleball Hall of Fame member Steve Paranto perhaps said it best, “This type of call on ‘let’ serves has already happened. This rule change eliminates any chance of inaccurate calls entirely.” The Rules committee is getting outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More in front of this potential before it becomes a bigger issue. Money in the pro and senior pro level and higher stakes for amateur players will change our game in ways most haven’t even thought about. But, the Rules Committee has. One can argue the extent to which this exists in our sport today, but noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More one can deny that money and high stakes can change player behavior, intentionally or not. That is a key point in this discussion; how behavior can change when the stakes of a game increase. So, we can argue whether this is an overreaction for what exists now, but that’s not the full picture. The higher the stakes, the more inaccurate are player judgment calls. It’s an aspect of human behavior that is difficult to refute.
Note: for those who think the bigger threat here are line calls, the Rules Committee also made a subtle and small, but important, wording change in the line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More rules as well, for much the same reason.
Second Priority? What is best for the players
If there is a rule that can eliminate conflict between or among players in a match, shouldn’t the Rules Committee consider it? Conflict on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More does NOT enhance the player experience. This rule completely eliminates player conflict over whether or not a served ball hits the net. Completely. NoA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More more arguments, noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More more conflict. In recreational play, this rarely results in conflict because most just accept the replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More. Not an issue. But in tournament play? Yes, it has caused conflict because one team calls a ‘let’ the other team doesn’t agree with. A lot? NoA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, but as said above, this change is to get outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More in front of a stronger potential in the future. Next up? Referees.
Third Priority? What’s best for officiating.
If there is a rule that will eliminate conflicts between players and referees, shouldn’t the Rules Committee consider it? Service ‘lets’ have caused several player and referee conflicts. In matches with a referee, players have called service ‘lets’ that have not been confirmed by the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. By rule, those are faults on the player for calling a ‘let’ that the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More did not also detect. Furthermore, many referees had adopted a practice of touching the net during the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to ‘detect’ service ‘lets’ and then moving back into their normal position. Because not all referees use it, that practice introduced an undesired inconsistency among referees. Additionally, some players complained because the movement of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More back into position, however slight, can be distracting, which is itself another potential source of referee/player conflict. Players have written complaints to USA Pickleball asking that the practice be stopped. This rule change completely eliminates that type of conflict as well. A final note about the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More aspect of this. Notice where it falls on the priority list. Last. Just where it belongs. So, it would be incorrect to place more importance on this reason for the change than it deserves.
Scenario A: The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls the correct score and the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More serves. The served ball hits the net and lands in the proper receiving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More immediately yells “Let”. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More after realizing her mistake, says “Referee error” and calls for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More. She then reminds everyone that “service lets” do not exist.
Scenario B: The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls the correct score and the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More serves. The served ball hits the net and lands in the proper receiving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. The receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More yells “Let” and catches the ball. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall call a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More on the receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More per rule 7.I. (stopping a live ballThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More before it becomes dead) and remind all players that “service lets” do not exist.
Scenario C: The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls the correct score and the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More serves. The served ball hits the net and lands in the proper receiving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. The receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More yells “Let” but also happens to return the ball to the serving team. A serving team player catches the ball because they heard the word “let” and thought a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More would occur. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall call a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More on the serving team per rule 7.I. (stopping a live ballThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More before it becomes dead) and remind all players that “service lets” do not exist. This is NOT a case for a distractionPhysical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the judgment of the referee, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or ability to... More faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More on the receiving team because the receiving team yelled “let” well before the ball had crossed back to the serving team’s side, and, well before the serving team was about to play the ball.
Scenario D: The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls the correct score and the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More serves. The served ball hits the net and lands in the proper receiving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. The receiverThe player who is positioned diagonally opposite the server to return the serve. Depending on the team’s score, the player who returns the serve may not be the correct receiver. More returns the ball. After the ball has crossed back to the serving team’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and just as the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More is about to make a play on the ball, the receiver’s partner loudly yells “Let” just as the original serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More was about to hit the ball. Upon hearing the opponent yell “Let”, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls a distractionPhysical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the judgment of the referee, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or ability to... More faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More because the receiver’s partner committed a distractionPhysical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the judgment of the referee, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or ability to... More faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More as the serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More was about to play the ball.
SECTION 5 – SELECTION OF END, SERVE, RECEIVE, OR DEFER RULES.
5.A. Selection of End, ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, Receive, or Defer.
5.A.1. Any fair method shall be used to determine which player or team has first choice of end, serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, receive, or defer (i.e., a 1 or 2 written on the back of the score sheet). If the winner chooses to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More or receive first, the loser chooses the starting end. If the winner chooses the starting end, the loser chooses to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More or receive. Once a selection has been made, it cannot be changed.
5.A.2. In doubles, teams may change the starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More between games and should notify the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. In non-officiated matches, the team should notify the opponents if there was a starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More change. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More or penalty for failure to make the notifications. Once a game has started and, if any points have been scored, when the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More notices a starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More has changed, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will stop play and annotate the scoresheet accordingly and resume play.
5.A.3. In doubles, the starting servers must visibly wear the form of identification determined by the Tournament Director.
5.B. Change of Ends.
5.B.1. Teams switch ends and initial service upon the completion of each game.
5.B.2. Two minutes is allowed between games. If both teams agree, play may resume early. Rule 10.A.5 shall be used to continue play.
5.B.3. In a match with two outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of three games to 11 points, in game three, sides will be switched when the first team reaches a score of 6. ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More remains with the player holding serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. Exception: If the first game of such match was forfeited due to late arrival, the teams will not switch ends during game three.
5.B.4. In a game to 15 points, the teams will switch ends when the first team reaches a score of 8. ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More remains with the player holding serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
5.B.5. In a game to 21 points, the teams will switch ends when the first team reaches a score of 11. ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More remains with the player holding serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
5.B.6. End Change Time-Out. One minute is allowed to switch ends during a game. Rule 10.A.5 shall be used to continue play.
5.B.7. Once the end change point has been scored, a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More resulting in the loss of a point for the serving team shall have noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More impact on the completion of the end change.
5.B.8. In a match with three outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of five games to 11 points, in game five, the teams will switch ends when the first team reaches a score of 6. ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More remains with the player holding serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
5.B.9. If the end change fails to be executed per Rules 5.B.3, 5.B.4, 5.B.5 or 5.B.8, the end change will be executed when realized. It is not a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More on either team, score is not impacted and serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More remains with the player holding the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
SECTION 6 – LINE CALL RULES
6.A. A served ball that clears the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More and its lines and lands in the correct service
courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More or on any correct service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More line is in. Any other ball in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More that lands in the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More
or touches any courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More line is in.
6.B. A ball contacting the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More completely outside of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More is “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More.” A served ball
that lands in the opponent’s non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More, including on the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More lines, is “out”.
6.C. Code of Ethics for Line Calling. Pickleball is played according to specific rules. It also
requires a code of ethics for line-calling responsibilities when performed by players.
The line-calling responsibilities of players are different from those assigned to referees or line
judges. The officials make impartial judgment calls with all players’ interests in mind. The
player, when assigned line-calling duties, must strive for accuracy and operate under the principle
that all questionable calls must be resolved in favor of the opponent.
The basic elements are:
6.C.1. Players are responsible for calling the lines on their end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More (excluding short
serves, service foot faults and all non-volley-zone faults, if being called by a referee). If a
player makes an initial line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, and then asks for either the opponent(s) or the referee’s
opinion, if the opponent or referee can make a clear “in” or “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call, the clear call will stand.
If noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More clear call can be made, the initial line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More by the player will stand. A call made by the opponent can
be appealed to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More for a final “in” or “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” decision.
6.C.2. Players’ only line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More is the centerline on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More in matches that have line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More.
6.C.3. The opponent gets the benefit of the doubt on line calls made. Any ball that cannot be called “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” will be considered “in.” A player cannot claim a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More because the ball was not seen or there is uncertainty. A player who does not make a call may appeal to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More to make the call if they did not clearly see the ball land. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is unable to make the call, the ball is “in.” The moment the receiving player/team appeals to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, they lose their right to make any subsequent “in” or “out” call for that rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
6.C.4. Spectators should not be consulted on any line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More.
6.C.5. A player/team may ask the opponent’s opinion to make the line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More on the player’s end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. If requested and the opponent makes a clear “in” or “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call, it must be accepted. If the opponents cannot make a clear “in” or “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call, then the ball is ruled as being “in” on the receiving team. The moment the receiving player/team asks for the opponent’s opinion, they lose their right to make any subsequent “in” or “out” call for that rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. The receiving team/player may also appeal to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More to make a clear call. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More cannot make a clear call, the outcome of the opponent’s ruling will stand.
6.C.6. Players shall not call a ball “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” unless they can clearly see a space between the line and the ball as it hits the ground.
6.C.7. All “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” calls must be made prior to the ball being hit by the opponent or before the ball becomes dead.
6.C.8. In doubles play, if one player calls the ball “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” and the partner calls it “in,” then doubt exists and the team’s call will be “in.” Any player may appeal a call to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More did not see the ball, the ball is considered in.
6.C.9. “OutA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” line calls must be promptly signaled by voice and/or hand signal (as described in Rule 13.E.2).
6.C.10. While the ball is in the air, if a player yells “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More,” “noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More,” “bounce it,” or any other words to communicate to their partner that the ball may be outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, it shall be considered player communication only and not considered a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More.
6.C.11. An “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call made after the ball bounces is a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More. The ball is dead and play shall stop. If, upon appeal, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More overrules any type of “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More against the player or team that made the “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call. Exception: If the match has line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, the baseline and sideline judges are responsible for the call. (See Rule 13.E.2)
6.C.12. After the completion of a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, players may overrule a partner’s line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, their own line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, an officiating team’s line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, or an opponent’s “in” call to their own disadvantage.
SECTION 7 – FAULT RULES
SECTION 7 – FAULT RULES
A fault (and resulting dead ball) will be declared for the following:
7.A. If the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More or service return does not bounce before the ball is struck.
7.B. Hitting the ball into the player’s side of the net without the ball crossing over to the opponent’s side. Note: The ball is dead and the faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More occurs the moment the ball hits the ground.
7.C. Hitting the ball under the net or between the net and the net post.
7.D. A ball hit by a player that first lands outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of bounds or onto their own side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
7.E. Failure of a standing player to return the ball before it bounces twice on the receiving player’s side of the net and failure of a player using a wheelchair to return a ball before it bounces three times.
7.F. Violation of Section 4, Section 9, and Section 11 rules.
7.G. A player, a player’s apparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More, or a player’s paddle contacting the net system, the net postsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, or the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, when the ball is live.
7.H. After the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, the ball contacts a player or anything the player is wearing or carrying, except the paddle or the player’s hand(s) in contact with the paddle and below the wrist. If the player is in the process of changing hands with both hands on the paddle or is attempting a two-handed stroke and either hand is hit below the wrist, as longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as a player’s hand is in contact with the paddle, the ball is still in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More. The faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More is on the player who was hit by the ball.
7.I. A ball in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More that is stopped by a player before it becomes dead (e.g., catching or stopping a ball in flight before it makes contact with the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More). The faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More is on the player who stopped the ball. Exception: See Rule 4.B.9.a.
7.J. After the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, a ball contacting any permanent objectAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More before bouncing on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
7.K. Once the ball is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More, a player hitting the ball before the ball entirely crosses the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More.
7.L. A player carrying or catching the ball on the paddle while performing the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More or during a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
7.M. A hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More called by a player that is determined by the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More to be invalid.
7.N. In non-officiated matches, players may carryHitting the ball in such a way that it does not bounce away from the paddle but is carried along on the face of the paddle. More an additional pickleball(s) as longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as the ball(s) is carried in a way that the ball(s) is not visible to their opponent(s) during play. If an additional ball that a player was carrying falls on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More during play, a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More shall be declared.
SECTION 8 – DEAD BALL RULES
8.A. Any action that stops play will result in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More.
8.B. A faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More called by a referee or player, or a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More committed by a player, will result in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More.
8.C. A hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More called by the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More or player will result in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will determine if the hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More called by the player was valid. A valid hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More per the RefereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More or a hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More called in non-officiated play will result in a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More.
8.D. A ball in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More that contacts a permanent objectAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More after it has bounced on the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More will result in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More. The player who hit the ball shall win the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
8.E. Other than non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More violations, a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More may only be committed when the ball is live. The penalty for a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More (other than non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More faults) is normally enforced the moment it is identified (e.g., distractions, double bounces, etc.) but may also be enforced any time before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.
SECTION 9 – NON-VOLLEY-ZONE RULES
9.A. All volleys must be initiated outside of the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More. For players using wheelchairs, the front (smaller) wheels may touch the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More during a volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More.
9.B. It is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if the volleying player or anything that has contact with the volleying player while in the act of volleying touches the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More. For players using wheelchairs, the front (smaller) wheels may touch the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
9.B.1. The act of volleying the ball includes the swing, the follow-through, and the momentumMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More from the action.
9.B.2. If the paddle touches the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More during the volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More motion, before or after contacting the ball, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
9.C. During the act of volleying, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if the volleying player’s momentumMomentum is a property of a body in motion, such as a player executing a volley, that causes the player to continue in motion after contacting the ball. The act of volleying produces momentum that ends when the player regains balance and control of their motion or stops moving toward the non-volley zone. More causes the player to contact anything that is touching the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More, including the player’s partner. For players using wheelchairs, the front (smaller) wheels may touch the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
9.C.1. It is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More even if the ball becomes dead before the player contacts the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
9.D. If a player has touched the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More for any reason, that player cannot volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More a return until both feet have made contact with the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More completely outside the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More. A maneuver such as standing within the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More, jumping up to hit a volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More, and then landing outside the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. If the rear wheels of a wheelchair have touched the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More for any reason, the player using a wheelchair cannot volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More a return until both rear wheels have made contact with the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing. [quads id=10] More outside the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
9.E. A player may enter the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More at any time except when that player is volleying the ball.
9.F. A player may enter the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More before or after returning any ball that bounces.
9.G. A player may stay inside the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More to return a ball that has bounced. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More violation if a player does not exit the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More after hitting a ball that bounces.
9.H. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More violation if a player returns the ball while their partner is standing in the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More.
SECTION 10 – TIME-OUT RULES
- A. Standard Time-Out. A player or team is entitled to two time-outs for 11- or 15-point games and three time-outs for a 21-point game.
10.A.1. Each time-out period may last up to 1 minute.
10.A.2. Play may be resumed early if all players are ready.
10.A.3. If a team has any remaining time-outs, any player on that team may call a time-out before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.
10.A.4. Before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs, if a team calls a time-out while having noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More time-outs remaining, noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More penalty shall be called.
10.A.5. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will announce when there are 15 seconds remaining. At the end of
the time-out period, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall call ‘time in’ and then call the score when all
players are (or should be) ready to play.
- B. Medical Time-Out. A player needing medical attention during a match should request a medical time-out from the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. Once the medical time-out has been requested, the following guidelines shall be used:
10.B.1. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall immediately summon on-site medical personnel, or the Tournament Director if noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More medical personnel are present, to assess the situation and render appropriate first aid.
10.B.1.a. When medical personnel or the Tournament Director arrive, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall start the 15-minute timer.
10.B.2. If medical personnel, or the Tournament Director if noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More medical personnel are present, determine that a valid medical condition exists, then that player will be allowed noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More more than 15 minutes for the medical time-out.
10.B.2.a. The time-out must be continuous and may be up to 15 minutes. If the player uses fewer than 15 minutes, the remaining time is lost and noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More additional medical time will be available to the player during the match
10.B.2.b. If the player cannot resume play after the 15-minute medical time-out period, the match will be declared a retirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More.
10.B.3. If medical personnel, or the Tournament Director if noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More medical personnel are present, determine that noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More valid medical condition exists, the player or team will be charged a standard time-out, if available, and issued a technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More.
10.B.3.a. If a standard time-out is not available, then a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More will be issued.
10.B.3.b. The medical time-out is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More longer available to that player for that match.
10.B.3.c. A player may be granted only one player- requested medical time-out per match.
10.B.4. Rule 10.A.5 procedures will be followed to continue play after a medical time-out.
10.B.5. Presence of blood. If blood is present on a player or on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, play may not resume until the bleeding has been controlled and blood on clothing and the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More has been removed.
10.B.5.a. Issues relating solely to blood cleanup or control will be considered a referee time- outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More.
10.B.5.b. Rule 10.A.5 procedures will be followed to continue play.
- C. Continuous PlayContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. Play should be continuous, although players are permitted to quickly take a drink or towel off in between rallies as longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as, in the judgment of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, the flow of the game is not adversely impacted. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall call the score when play should be resume
10.D. Equipment Time-Outs. Players are expected to keep all apparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More and equipment in good playable condition and are expected to use regular time-outs and time between games for adjustments and replacement of equipment. If a player or team is outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of time-outs and the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More determines that an equipment change or adjustment is necessary for fair and safe continuation of the match, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More may award an equipment time-out of up to 2 minutes. Rule 10.A.5 will be used to continue play. In non-officiated matches, players will work outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More a reasonable accommodation among themselves for equipment malfunctions.
10.D.1. ApparelA paddle listed as Pass on the USAPA/IFP Approved Paddle List without penalty. More and equipment adjustments that can be accomplished quickly are allowed between rallies (e.g., tying shoelaces, cleaning glasses, adjusting hat).
- E. Time Between Games. The period between games in a match shall not exceed 2 minutes. Rule 10.A.5 procedures will be followed to resume play.
10.E.1. In between games of a match, players may take one or both of their upcoming game’s timeouts. The players must inform the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, or their opponents if there is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More referee. If a team returns to play before one (or both) requested time-outs have started, the team retains the time-out(s) for the upcoming game. The normal two minutes in between games will be used before any team- allotted timeouts.
- F. Time Between Matches. The standard time between matches shall be 10 minutes. If all players are ready to play prior to 10 minutes, the match may be called early.
10.F.1. In a championship match with a tie-breaker match: If the winner of the loser’s bracket defeats the winner of the winner’s bracket, then a tie-breaker match to 15 points must be played. Maximum time between the championship match and the tie- breaker match is 10 minutes.
- G. Suspended Games. A game suspended due to extenuating circumstances shall be resumed with the same serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More, score, and remaining time-outs as when interrupted.
- H. Other Time-Out Rules.
10.H.1. Before A Match or Between Games: Neither medical nor regular time-outs may be taken before a match starts. A match cannot begin until all players are present and the starting score is called. Time-out(s) may be used before the start of the second and subsequent games in a multiple-game match.
10.H.2. Extenuating Circumstances: The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More may call a referee time-out to address extenuating circumstances that may require an extended interruption of play.
10.H.2.a. In the interest of safety, if the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More determines a potential medical situation exists, (for example, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, etc.) and the player is unable to or refuses to call a medical timeout, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is authorized to call a referee time-out and summon medical personnel or the Tournament Director. Referee requested time-outs will not be charged against the player.
10.H.2.b. Active bleeding shall be addressed in accordance with Rule 10.B.5.
10.H.2.c. Foreign substances on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, such as debris, water, or other fluids, shall be removed or cleaned up.
10.H.2.d. Rule 10.A.5 shall be used to resume play.
SECTION 11 – OTHER RULES
SECTION 11 – OTHER RULES
11.A. Double Hits. Balls can be hit twice, but this must occur during an unintentional,
continuous, single-direction stroke, by one player. If the stroke made while performing
the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More or during a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is deliberately not continuous, or not in a single direction, or
the ball is struck by a second player, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
11.B. Switching Hands. A paddle may be switched from hand to hand at any time.
11.C. Two-Handed Shots. Two-handed shots are allowed.
11.D. Missed Shot. A player completely missing the ball when attempting to strike it does not create a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More. The ball remains in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More until it bounces twice or until any other faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More has occurred.
11.E. Broken or Cracked Ball. If a referee is present, players may appeal to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs to determine if a ball is broken or cracked. If the appeal is before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will call “Time”, inspect the ball, and either replace it or return it into play. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will recall the score. In non-officiated matches, players may replace a cracked ball before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs. If any player suspects the ball is or becomes cracked after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, play must continue until the end of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. If, in the judgment of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, a broken or cracked ball impacted the outcome of a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will call for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More with a replacement ball. In non-officiated play, if the players do not agree that a cracked ball impacted the outcome of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More stands as played.
11.F. Injury During RallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. The rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More continues to its conclusion despite an injury to any of the players.
11.G. Player Equipment Problem. A rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More will not be stopped if a player loses or breaks a paddle or loses an item, unless the action results in a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
11.H. Items on the CourtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. If any item a player is/was wearing or carrying lands on their end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, unless the item lands in the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More as a result of a volleyDuring a rally, a strike of the ball out of the air before the ball has bounced. More, the ball remains in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More even if it hits the item.
11.I. Plane of the NetThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More. Crossing the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More prior to striking the ball is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. After striking the ball, a player or anything the player is/was wearing or carrying may cross the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More. The player may not touch any part of the net system, the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, or the opponent while the ball is still in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
11.I.1. Exception: If the ball bounces into a receiving player’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More with enough backspin or wind aid to cause it to return back over the net, the receiving player may cross the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More (over, under or around the net post) to hit the ball. It is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if the receiving player (or anything the receiving player is wearing or carrying) crosses the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More before the ball has first crossed back over the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More to the opponent’s side. It is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if the player touches the net system, the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, or the opponent while the ball is still in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
11.J. Distractions. Players may not distract an opponent when the opponent is about to play the ball. If in the judgment of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More a distractionPhysical actions by a player that are ‘not common to the game’ that, in the judgment of the referee, may interfere with the opponent’s ability or concentration to hit the ball. Examples include, but are not limited to, making loud noises, stomping feet, waving the paddle in a distracting manner or otherwise interfering with the opponent’s concentration or ability to... More has occurred, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall immediately call a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More on the offending team.
11.K. The Net PostsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. The net postsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More (including connected wheels, arms, or other support construction) are positioned outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of bounds.
11.K.1. It is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if a player contacts the net post while the ball is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
11.K.2. A ball contacting the net, the net cable, or rope between the net postsAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More remains in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
11.L. The Net.
11.L.1. The net and the wires or strings holding up the net are positioned (mostly) on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. Therefore, if the ball strikes the top of the net or strikes the top net wire or string and lands inbounds, it remains in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
11.L.2. If the ball travels between the net and the net post, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More against the striking player.
11.L.3. A player is allowed to go around the net post and cross the imaginary extensionA term used to describe where a line would extend if it projected beyond its current end point. Players and referees are to project where the line would extend if it were not limited to the boundaries of the playing area. More line of the net after hitting the ball, so longA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More as the player or any item he or she is/was wearing or carrying does not touch the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. If the player goes around the net post and crosses the imaginary extensionA term used to describe where a line would extend if it projected beyond its current end point. Players and referees are to project where the line would extend if it were not limited to the boundaries of the playing area. More line of the net but does not make contact with the ball, a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More will be declared.
11.L.4. If a player hits the ball over the net into the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, and then the ball bounces back over the net and bounces a second time without being touched by the opponent, the striking player wins the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
11.L.5. For net systems with a horizontal bar or a center base, or both:
11.L.5.a. Before going over the net, if the ball hits the horizontal bar or the center base, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
11.L.5.b. Except on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More will occur if the ball goes over the net and:
– hits the center base
– hits any part of the horizontal bar
– the ball gets caught between the net and the horizontal bar
– hits a deflecting net
– hits a draping net on the ground
Except on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, if the ball goes over the net, bounces on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, and then performs any of the above listed actions, a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More shall occur.
11.L.5.c. On the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, if the ball hits the horizontal bar or the center base or gets caught between the net and horizontal bar after going over the net, it is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
11.L.5.d. Any malfunction of a net system during play shall be considered a hinderAny transient element or occurrence not caused by a player that adversely impacts play, not including permanent objects. Examples include, but are not limited to, balls, flying insects, foreign material, players or officials on another court that, in the opinion of the referee, impacted a player’s ability to make a play on the ball. More.
11.M. Shots Around the Net Post. A player may return the ball around the outside of the net post.
11.M.1. The ball does not need to travel back over the net.
11.M.2. There is noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More restriction on the height of the return, meaning a player may return the ball around the net post below the height of the net.
11.N. One Paddle. A player shall not use or carryHitting the ball in such a way that it does not bounce away from the paddle but is carried along on the face of the paddle. More more than one paddle during a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. A violation of this rule is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
11.O. Paddle Possession. A player must have possession of the paddle when it makes contact with the ball. A violation of this rule is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. (Exception see Rule 11.H).
11.P. Electronic Equipment. Players shall not wear or use any form of headphones or earbuds during competition play. Exception: Prescribed or necessary hearing aids are permitted.
SECTION 12 – SANCTIONED TOURNAMENT POLICIES
12.A.Event Categories.
Men: Singles and Doubles
Women: Singles and Doubles
Mixed: Doubles
Wheelchair: Singles and Doubles
12.A.1. In events described by gender, only members of that gender shall be allowed to play in that event.
12.A.2. Mixed doubles – A mixed doubles team shall consist of one male and one female player.
12.A.3. Players using wheelchairs may play in Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles or Mixed Doubles with either standup partners or wheelchair doubles.
12.B.Tournament Scoring Options. The recommended tournament scoring option is best two of three games to 11 points, win by two points. Other options include: best three of five games to 11 points, one game to 15 or one game to 21. All formats win by two points. Round robin brackets may also use one game to 11, win by two points, if the bracket has six or more teams.
12.C.Tournament Formats. There are five tournament formats that may be used. The particular format is typically the choice of the tournament sponsor or the Tournament Director.
12.C.1. Single Elimination with Consolation. The first player/team to score the match-winning point by at least a two-point margin wins. Losers from all rounds go into a consolation bracket playing for the bronze medal/third place and are eliminated after a second loss. The final two players/teams in the winner’s bracket play for the gold/first-place and silver/second-place medals.
12.C.2. (Pro and Senior Pro Player Brackets) Single Elimination Without Consolation. The first player/team to score the match-winning point by at least a two-point margin wins. The final two players/teams in the winner’s bracket play for the gold/first-place and silver/second-place medals. The determination of the final standings of the remaining players/teams is leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More to the discretion of tournament officials.
12.C.3. Double Elimination. The first player/team to score the match-winning point by at least a two-point margin wins. A loss will put the loser into the consolation bracket. Players/teams are eliminated after one loss in the consolation bracket. The winner of the consolation bracket will play the winner of the winner’s bracket for the championship. If the winner of the consolation bracket defeats the winner of the winner’s bracket, then a tie-breaker match to 15 points must be played to determine the gold/first-place and silver/second-place medals. The loser of the consolation bracket final will receive the bronze/third-place medal.
12.C.4. Round Robin. All players/teams play each other. Games may use any of the approved tournament scoring options. (See Rule 12.B.) The winner is determined based on number of matches won. If two or more teams are tied, ties shall be broken in accordance with 12.C.4.a. through 12.C.4.e. Once a tie has been broken, any subsequent ties in the bracket shall be broken by going back to 12.C.4.a. and continuing through each successive tie-breaker until a winner is determined.
12.C.4.a. Players/Teams that have withdrawn from the bracket are not eligible to be considered when going to a tie-breaker. Any player/team that has withdrawn from the bracket shall only have their record of matches won considered. (e.g., Team A has 3 wins, Team B has 3 wins and Team C has 3 wins. However, Team C withdrew from their last match. Because Team C has withdrawn from a match in their bracket, only their 3 wins will be considered in their finishing placement and they will not be considered for any additional tiebreaker. Team A beat Team B in their heads-up match, therefore Team A is awarded first place, Team B is awarded second place and Team C is awarded third place.)
12.C.4.b. First tie-breaker: head-to-head matches won among the tied teams.
12.C.4.c. Second tie-breaker: point differential of all games played. (e.g., Team A won Match 1 11-8, 11-4, so they would have a point differential of +10. Team A then wins the second match 11-9, 2-11, 11-6. For this round, they would have a point differential of -2. This would give them a total for the day of +8.)
12.C.4.d. Third tie-breaker: head-to-head point differential.
12.C.4.e. Fourth tie-breaker: point differential against next-highest player/team (e.g., if the players/teams are tied for second, use point differentials against the first-place team.)
12.C.5. Pool Play. The participants are divided into two or more player pools. Each pool plays a round robin to determine the qualifiers that put the players into a single-elimination or double-elimination playoff.
12.C.6. Non-Pool Play. The participants are seeded based on the results of the round robin and play either a single or double elimination medal round format of two of three games to 11, one game to 15, or one game to 21. Each format requires a two-point win margin.
12.D.Draws and Seeding. A draw and seeding committee shall be appointed by the Tournament Director to rank the players and teams and set up a fair draw for each event.
12.E. Notice of Matches. It is the responsibility of each player to check the posted schedules to determine the time and place of each match. If any change is made in the schedule after the initial posting, the Tournament Director or their designated representative shall notify the players of the changes.
12.F. Retirements.
12.F.1. After the initial score has been called to start the match, the only option available for a player/team to discontinue playing the match until completion is RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More.
12.F.2. During a match, if a player/team cannot immediately continue after the 15-minute medical time-out period has expired, a RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More will be imposed.
12.F.3. The player/team must make a RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More request during the match to either the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More or the opposing player/team.
12.F.4. The player/team who requests a RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More during a match, or a player/team on which a rule-based Forfeit has been imposed, will have all score(s) reported per the guidelines in the RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More Scoring section (see Rule 12.H.1)
12.F.4.a. If applicable, a player/team is still eligible for the next match in the same bracket after choosing a RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More option for a previous match.
12.F.4.b. A player/team may request a RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More for any upcoming match in the specified bracket.
12.G. Withdrawals
12.G.1. A player/team may request to be withdrawn from any scheduled bracket(s) that has not been started by tournament operations personnel.
12.G.2. If a player/team has completed any matches, the player/team may request to be withdrawn from all upcoming matches in that bracket. The request must be made prior to the initial score being called to start their next match.
12.G.3. The player/team must make their WithdrawalA player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket. More request to either the Tournament Director, Head Referee, or operations desk personnel.
12.G.4. The withdrawn player/team shall be removed from any future participation in the specified bracket.
12.G.5. The withdrawn player/team shall have all scores reported per the guidelines in the WithdrawalA player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket. More Scoring section. (See Rule 12.I.)
12.H. Forfeits, Ejections, Expulsions and RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More Match Scoring Guidelines
12.H.1. Actual game scores at the time of retirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More shall be reported for the player/team that retires. The opponents shall be awarded all points necessary for proper match completion, ensuring a two-point margin. For example, in Game 1 of a two-out-of-three games match, a team with 10 points retires when the score is 10-5. The final scores will be recorded as: “12-10, 11-0”
Match scores after a rule-based forfeit, ejectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More or expulsion shall be reported as:
Two out-of-three games format: “11-0, 11-0”
Three out-of-five format: “11-0, 11-0, 11-0”
15- or 21-point format: “15-0” or “21-0”
12.H.2. If a player/team elects the RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More option or a Forfeit has been imposed for the match, (and the WithdrawalA player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket. More option has not been chosen) the player/team may continue to compete in any upcoming matches.
12.H.3. All previous completed match scores, prior to an EjectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More, Forfeit or a player RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More, will be retained.
12.I. WithdrawalA player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket. More Scoring Guidelines for Remaining Matches
12.I.1. Two-out-of three format: “0-0, 0-0”
Three-out-of five format: “0-0, 0-0, 0-0”
One Game to 15 format: “0-0”
One Game to 21 format: “0-0”
12.I.2. Scores for all matches completed prior to the WithdrawalA player/team’s request to be removed from any upcoming play in a specified bracket. More request will be retained.
12.J. Two-Match Minimum. In all USA PICKLEBALL-sanctioned tournaments, each entrant shall be entitled to participate in a minimum of two scheduled matches per event entered. Exception: Single Elimination Without Consolation events guarantee only 1 match per event.
12.K.Scheduling Matches. A player is not permitted to enter multiple events scheduled on the same day with an overlapping time frame.
12.L. Doubles Play. A doubles team shall consist of two players who meet the classification requirements to participate in a particular division of play.
12.L.1. In an event based upon skill rating, the higher-rated player determines the team’s ability level. In an adult event (ages 19 and over) based upon age grouping, the lower age of the team members will determine the team’s age classification. Players may play in a younger division unless prohibited by the rules of the National Senior Games Association.
12.L.2. Juniors (ages 18 and under) may enter any junior event for which they are age qualified. If a junior event is not available or does not receive enough entrants, or at the Tournament Director’s permission, juniors may play as adults in the 19-and-over events.
12.M. Partner Changes. Partner change may be made prior to the first-round match, with the consent of the Tournament Director, if the change is due to injury, illness, or circumstances beyond the control of the player.
12.M.1.Under noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More circumstances can a partner change be made after the partners have begun team play.
12.N. CourtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More Changes. In USA PICKLEBALL-sanctioned tournaments, the Tournament Director or designee may decide on a change of courts after the completion of any tournament game if such a change will accommodate better spectator or playing conditions.
12.O.Mini-singles. Mini-singles is played according to the same rules as singles except as otherwise provided herein. .
12.O.1. The CourtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More: Mini-singles is played on a standard pickleball courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
12.O.1.a. An additional line shall be provided that extends the centerline of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More through each non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More. The color of this line is not required to be the same as the other courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More lines.
12.O.1.b. Only one of the two courts at a player’s end is “in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More” during a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. The courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More that is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More is determined by the required player position based on their score (i.e., the right [even] or the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More [odd] courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More).
12.O.2. Player Positions
12.O.2.a. Each player’s position is determined by their individual score. This applies at all times, whether the player is serving or receiving.
12.O.2.b. When a player’s score is even, the player plays from the right (even) courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and that is the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More that is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More at that end. When the player’s score is oddThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More, the player plays from the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More (oddThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More) courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and that is the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More that is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More at that end.
12.O.3 Boundary of the In-Play Courts
12.O.3.a. Each player’s shot must land in bounds of the opponent’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More that is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More.
12.O.3.b. The baseline and outer sideline determine two of the three boundaries of the in-play courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
12.O.3.c. Because only one of the courts at an end is in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More during a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More (i.e., either the right [even] courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More or the leftThe service area on the left side of the court, when facing the net. The starting server in doubles or the singles server should be positioned on the left/odd side of the court when their score is odd. More [odd] courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More), the centerline of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, including the portion that extends through the non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More, serves as the other sideline of the in-play courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
SECTION 13 – TOURNAMENT MANAGEMENT AND OFFICIATING
13.A. Tournament Director. A Tournament Director is responsible for the tournament. It is the Tournament Director’s responsibility to designate the officials and their areas of responsibility.
13.A.1. A player may appeal any officiating decision to the Tournament Director or their designee. The Tournament Director, however, retains the final decision-making authority while following the applicable rule in the Official Rulebook.
13.A.2. In all USA PICKLEBALL-sanctioned tournaments, the Tournament Director will provide some method of identifying each team’s starting serverFor each doubles team, the player designated to serve first at the start of the game. In doubles tournament play, the starting server shall wear a visible form of identification determined by the Tournament Director. More for each game. This identification must be visible to all on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More during play. Refusal to wear this identification will result in forfeit of the match.
13.A.3. The Tournament Director should check to ensure that planned support (e.g., first aid, tournament volunteers, etc.) is available.
13.A.4. The Tournament Director has the authority to expelA behavior violation so flagrant that the Tournament Director prohibits the player from playing in any current and any future brackets of the tournament. In addition, the player shall leave the venue immediately and not return for the remainder of the tournament. More any player from the tournament for misconduct.
13.B. Tournament Briefing. Before the tournament, the Tournament Director shall brief players and referees on any unique features, abnormal local conditions, or hazards associated with the courts. The briefings may include but are not limited to courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More distances that are not uniform (such as the distance from end line to back fence or barrier), low ceilings, existence of overhangs, courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More repairs, or damage that could affect the play of the ball. If possible, the players should be notified in writing as part of the pre-tournament instructions. The referees shall be briefed upon arrival at the venue by the Tournament Director or their designee.
13.B.1. The Tournament Director may not implement or impose any rule that is not provided in the USA Pickleball Rulebook. If the Tournament Director desires an exception to any rule because of physical limitations of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More or local conditions, the USA Pickleball Managing Director of Officiating must grant permission before the tournament.
13.C. Referee’s Duties. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is responsible for all decisions related to procedural and judgment calls during the match. Players may appeal any decision of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More to the Tournament Director or their designee.
13.C.1. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More calls non-volley-zone infractions, short serves, and service foot faults.
13.C.2. If the players or line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More make the line calls and there is a disputed line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, the players may request that the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More determine the line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More cannot make the line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, the player’s or line judge’s call will remain. If doubles partners appeal a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More that they disagree on and the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More cannot make the call, the ball will be declared “in.” Note: A player may choose to overrule a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More to their disadvantage. (See Rule 6.D.13)
13.C.2.a. Spectators should not be consulted on any calls.
13.C.3. Before each match begins, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More must:
13.C.3.a. Check on preparation of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More with respect to cleanliness, lighting, height of the net, courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More markings, and hazards.
13.C.3.b. Check on availability and suitability of necessary materials for the match, such as balls, score sheets, pencils, and the timing device (stopwatch).
13.C.4. Before each match begins, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More must meet with players at courtside to:
13.C.4.a. Inspect paddles for irregularities.
13.C.4.b. Point outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More approved rule modifications, courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More abnormalities and non-standard courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More conditions that could be potential safety issues, including but not limited to courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More repairs or seams, different distances from end lines to back fences, and spectators and their seating.
13.C.4.c. Instruct players on line-calling duties of the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, and players. Note: This requirement may be satisfied by the pre-match player instructions provided by the Tournament Director.
13.C.4.d. Use any fair method to determine the initial selection of end, serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, receive, or defer.
13.C.4.e. Ensure the starting servers for each team are wearing the official identification. Refusal to wear the identification will result in forfeit of the match.
13.C.5. During the match, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More must:
13.C.5.a. Recheck the net height and position if the net is disturbed.
13.C.5.b. Call the score to start each rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. Calling the score indicates to each side that play is ready to resume.
13.C.5.c. Call “point” after each is awarded.
13.C.5.d. Appropriately annotate the score sheet after each rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is completed or time-out is called.
13.C.5.e. In doubles matches, call “second serverIn doubles, the first server’s partner. The second server serves after the first server loses serve. More” (or “second serveIn doubles, a term used to describe the condition when a serving team loses the first of its two allocated serves. More”) after the first server’s team loses the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
13.C.5.f. Call “side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More” when appropriate.
13.C.5.g. Enforce time-out procedures. (See Section 10.)
13.C.5.h. Maintain player conduct. In USA PICKLEBALL tournaments, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is empowered to call verbal warnings, technical warnings, technical fouls, and to forfeit a game or match based on a defined combination of technical warnings and/or technical fouls. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More may also recommend an ejectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More to the Tournament Director.
13.D. Player Line and FaultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More Call Responsibilities.
13.D.1. Non-Officiated Play.
13.D.1.a. In the spirit of good sportsmanship, players are expected to call any type of faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More on themselves as soon as the faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More is committed or detected. The faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More call must happen before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.
13.D.1.b. Players call all lines on their end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, including non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More and service foot faults.
13.D.1.c. Players may call non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More and service foot faults on the opponent’s end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. If there is any disagreement among players about the called foot faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More, a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More shall occur.
13.D.1.d. For non-officiated matches, if a player believes an opponent has committed any type of faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More other than a service or non-volley zoneThe 7-foot-by-20-foot area adjacent to the net and specific to each team’s end of the court relating to NVZ faults. All lines bounding the NVZ are part of the NVZ. The NVZ is two-dimensional and does not rise above the playing surface. (See Figure 2-1 and Section 2.B.3.) More foot faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More as noted in Section 7 – FaultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More Rules, they may mention the specific faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More to the opponent(s) but they have noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More authority to enforce the faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. The final decision on faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More resolution belongs to the player that allegedly committed the faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.
13.D.2. Officiated Play.
13.D.2.a. Players call baseline, sideline, and center service line on their end of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
13.D.2.b. In the spirit of good sportsmanship, players are expected to call faults on themselves as soon as the faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More is committed or detected. The faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More call must happen before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.
13.D.3. Officiated Play with Line JudgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More.
13.D.3.a. Players call center service line on their side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.
13.D.3.b. Except for center service line calls, player’s line calls are not valid in matches with line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, except to overrule a call to disadvantage their own team (See Rule 6.D.13). Players may appeal a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More made by the line judge to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. (See Rule 13.F.)
13.D.3.c. If the line judge(s) and referee cannot make a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More, the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More shall be replayed.
13.E. Line JudgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More.
13.E.1. The Tournament Director shall determine which medal matches will use line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. Line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More are recommended, but not required.
13.E.2. Line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will make the assigned line and foot faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More calls within their jurisdiction and will signify by loudly calling “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” (or “service foot faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More”) and showing the “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” signal (outstretched arm pointing in the out-of-bounds direction).
13.E.3. If a line judge shows the “blocked/blinded” signal, (both hands covering the eyes) the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More can make the call immediately if they clearly saw the ball land. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More cannot make the call, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall canvass the remaining officiating team to assist in making the call.
13.E.4. Upon appeal, if a referee overrules a line judge’s “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call as “in,” a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More will occur, unless the team that benefitted from the referee’s call chooses to concede the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
13.E.5. If a player disagrees with a line judge’s “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call that benefited their team, the player may overrule the “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More” call as “in” per rule 6.D.13. A replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More will occur unless the team that made the call to their detriment chooses to concede the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.
13.F. Appeals. Appeals to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More regarding judgment calls (e.g., line calls, double bounceWhen the ball bounces twice on one side before it is returned. More, etc.) shall be decided by the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More may consult players or line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More to decide the outcome of the appeal.
13.F.1. In a match without line judgesAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, if a player appeals a line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More shall make a call if they clearly saw the ball land “in” or “outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More”. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is unable to make the call, the original call will remain. If noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More call was made, the ball will be considered “in”.
13.F.2. A referee’s decision will result in a point awarded, a service loss, or a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More.
13.F.3. Only rally-ending line calls may be appealed. Any player may appeal a rally-ending line callA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More to the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.
13.G. Verbal Warnings, Technical Warnings and Technical Fouls.
13.G.1. Verbal WarningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More and Technical Warnings. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is empowered to issue a single verbal warningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More to each player/team or call technical warnings. Actions or behavior that shall result in a verbal or technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More:
13.G.1.a. Objectionable language directed at another person.
13.G.1.b. ProfanityWords, phrases or hand gestures, common or uncommon, which are normally considered inappropriate in “polite company” or around children. Typically included are four letter words used as expletives or verbal intensifiers. More (audible or visible) used for any reason. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will determine the severity of any violation.
13.G.1.c. Arguing aggressively with the officiating team, other players or spectators in a way that disrupts the flow of play.
13.G.1.d. Ball abuse (aggressively or purposely breaking or stepping on the ball) or striking the ball between rallies.
13.G.1.e. Taking time between rallies in a way that unnecessarily disrupts the flow of play.
13.G.1.f. Repeatedly appealing line calls such that the flow of play is disrupted.
13.G.1.g. Challenging the referee’s interpretation of a rule and losing the challenge (e.g., referee’s ruling was correct) and a time-out is assessed. (Verbal WarningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More not applicable)
13.G.1.h. Requesting a medical time-out without a valid medical condition (time-out assessed) as determined by medical personnel or the tournament director if noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More medical staff if present. (Verbal WarningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More not applicable)
13.G.1.i. Actions that are considered minor unsportsmanlike behavior, including but not limited to making repeated questionable ‘out’ calls that, upon appeal, are reversed (overruled) by the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More.
13.G.1.j. Except during time-outs and in-between games, receiving coachingCommunication of any information, including verbal, nonverbal, and electronic, from someone other than a player’s partner, that a player or team may act upon to gain an advantage or help them avoid a rules violation. More from anyone other than a partner..
13.G.2. Technical Fouls – The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More is empowered to call technical fouls. When a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More is called, one point shall be removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case, a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. Actions or behavior that shall result in a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More (without a technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More being issued beforehand):
13.G.2.a. Aggressively or recklessly throwing a paddle in frustration or anger, with negligent disregard of the consequences, and does not strike a person or damage property.
13.G.2.b. A player using extremely objectionable language, or profanityWords, phrases or hand gestures, common or uncommon, which are normally considered inappropriate in “polite company” or around children. Typically included are four letter words used as expletives or verbal intensifiers. More, regardless of to whom or what it is directed.
13.G.2.c. Making a threat or challenges of any nature toward or against any person.
13.G.2.d. Challenging the referee’s interpretation of a rule and losing the challenge (e.g., referee’s ruling was correct) and noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More time-out is available. (Verbal WarningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More not applicable)
13.G.2.e. Any other actions that are considered extreme unsportsmanlike behavior.
13.G.2.f. Requesting a medical time-out without a valid medical condition, and the team (or player in a singles match) has noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More time-outs remaining. (Verbal WarningA referee’s Verbal Warning (VW) is an optional, non-penalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to profanity which has not risen to the penalty level (TW or TF). When used, a referee’s VW is simultaneously administered to all players on the court. Only one VW for profanity is permitted during a match. More not applicable)
13.G.2.g. Deliberately throwing or hitting a ball that is not in playThe point in time when the referee or server (or server's partner per rule 4.D.2) starts to call the score. More with negligent disregard of the consequences which inadvertently hits a person.
13.G.3. Effect of Technical Fouls and Technical Warnings. The assessment of a technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More or technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More shall be accompanied by a brief explanation of the reason.
13.G.3.a. A technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More shall not result in a loss of rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More or point awarded.
13.G.3.b. Once a technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More has been issued, a second technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More for any reason, given to the same player or team during the match, will result in a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More being issued to the player or team.
13.G.3.c. If a referee issues a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More, one point shall be removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. After the point is removed or awarded, the player or team losing or awarded the point must move on their own to the correct position(s) that reflects their score.
13.G.3.d. A called technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More or technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More shall have noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More effect on serverThe player who initiates a rally. Depending on the team’s score, it is possible that the player who serves may not be the correct server. More change or side outThe awarding of the serve to the opposing team after a singles player or doubles team loses its serve. More.
13.G.3.e. Verbal warnings, technical warnings and technical fouls may be assessed any time the players are at the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, independent of whether the match is in progress. This includes during warm-up time. Play shall not be stopped to assess a warning or foul. The assessment of the warning or foul shall be applied after the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More has ended. Behavior raising to the level of a warning or foul after the match is over shall be brought to the attention of the Tournament Director.
13.H. Game Forfeit. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will impose a game forfeit when either of the following occurs:
13.H.1. After one technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More has been assessed and the subsequent issuance of a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More listed in Rule 13.G.2.
13.H.2. After one technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More has been assessed in accordance with Rule 13.G.3.c. or Rule 13.G.2. and the subsequent issuance of another technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More for any reason.
13.H.3. For match formats either 1 to 15 or 1 to 21, a game forfeit is equivalent to a match forfeit.
13.H.4. If the match is a two-out-of-three (or three-out-of-five) game format, a referee may impose a game forfeit when a player fails to report to play 10 minutes after the match has been called to play. A match forfeit will be imposed when a player fails to report to play 15 minutes after the match has been called to play. If the match is a 1 to 15 or 1 to 21 format game, the match forfeit occurs when the player fails to report to play 10 minutes after the match has been called to play. The Tournament Director may permit a longer delay if circumstances warrant such a decision.
13.I. Match Forfeit. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More will impose a match forfeit based on a combination of Technical Warnings or Technical Fouls when either of the following occurs:
13.I.1.a The combined issuance of two technical warnings and a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More listed in Rule 13.G.2
13.I.1.b After one technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More has been assessed in accordance with Rule 13.G.3.c or Rule 13.G.2 and the subsequent issuance of a second technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More for any reason.
13.I.1.c Behavior that shall result in a match forfeit that is not due to a combination of Technical Warnings or Technical Fouls.
13.I.1.c.1. Making deliberately aggressive physical contact with an opponent, official or spectator.
13.I.1.c.2. Aggressively or recklessly striking or throwing a ball or paddle outA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More of frustration or anger that puts an individual or facility property at risk or in danger.
13.I.2. The Tournament Director may impose a match forfeit for failure to comply with the tournament or host facility’s rules while on the premises, or for improper conduct on the premises between matches, or for abuse of hospitality, locker room, or other rules and procedures.
13.J. Challenging Referee Rulings or Decisions. If a player disagrees with a referee’s ruling or decision, that player may challenge the referee’s ruling or decision by asking for the Head Referee, Tournament Director, or the Tournament Director’s designee. If the referee’s ruling or decision is determined to be correct, the player or team will lose a time-out and be given a technical warningA referee’s first verbal warning of a rule or behavioral violation given to a player or team prior to a technical foul being issued. Points are not awarded for a technical warning. More (see 13.G.1.g). If noA loud word(s) spoken by a player or line judge(s) to indicate to the referee and/or players that a live ball has not touched in the required court space. The preferred word to indicate a line call is “OUT”. Distinctive hand signals can be used in conjunction with a line call. Words such as “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also... More time-outs are available and the referee’s ruling is correct, the player/team will be given a technical foulA referee’s assessment of a rule or behavioral violation that results in one point being removed from the score of the offending team unless their score is zero, in which case a point shall be added to the score of the opposing side. A technical foul shall be issued if one technical warning has already been given and a second... More (see 13.G.2.d). When the referee’s ruling or decision is incorrect, the ruling will be reversed and, if applicable, the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More will be replayed.
13.K. Removal of a Line Judge. The refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More may remove a line judge for any reasonable cause, based on either the referee’s own observation or that of the players. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More decides to replace a line judge based on their own observation, the referee’s decision is final. The players may also petition the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More to remove a line judge, providing all players agree. If the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More does not agree, the refereeAny object on or near the court, including hanging over the court, that can interfere with play. Permanent objects include the ceiling, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts, net post legs, the stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions, and all other objects around and above the court. More must consult with the Tournament Director for a final decision. If a line judge is removed, the Tournament Director will appoint a replacement.
13.K.1. Removal of a Referee. If all players agree, they may petition the Tournament Director for a referee removal. The Tournament Director retains the final discretionary authority on the removal of a Referee. If a Referee is removed, the Tournament Director will appoint a replacement.
13.L. Non-Officiated Play. Any player may request a referee or Tournament Director if:
13.L.1. The player reasonably believes that a rule is being consistently and deliberately violated by their opponent.
13.L.2. A situation arises where players are not able to quickly and easily resolve a dispute.
13.L.2.a. If any player believes a paddle is not USAP approved or does not otherwise comply with all paddle rules, the player is allowed to summon the Head Referee or Tournament Director to determine if the paddle is legal for play.
13.M. Ejections and Expulsions. The Tournament Director may eject a player from the tournament for flagrant and particularly injurious behavior that, in the opinion of the Tournament Director, impacts the success of the tournament. An ejectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More can occur due to actions any time the player is at the tournament venue and may include, but is not limited to:
13.M.1. Using ethnic, religious, racial, sexist, or homophobic slurs.
13.M.2. Injury to a player, official, or spectator through an act of paddle or ball abuse.
13.M.3. Spitting or coughing on a person.
13.M.4. Not exhibiting ‘best effort’. This includes but is not limited to, defaulting, forfeiting, or not giving best efforts in matches, whether for their own benefit or otherwise.
Note: In addition to an ejectionA behavior violation so flagrant that it warrants ejection from the tournament by the Tournament Director. The player may stay at the venue but may no longer play in any matches. More, the Tournament Director also has the option to expelA behavior violation so flagrant that the Tournament Director prohibits the player from playing in any current and any future brackets of the tournament. In addition, the player shall leave the venue immediately and not return for the remainder of the tournament. More the player from the tournament venue.
There is a scenario that happened to me during a doubles match that I do not see addressed by any specific rule. This was a non-officiated match. My opponent served and I called the serve immediately “out” but nonetheless returned the serve into opponent’s court. My partner overruled my call saying he thought it was good. The opponents stopped the point and claimed the point. Because I successfully returned the ball into their court, wouldn’t a replay of the point be warranted? If the serve had been a clear ace or if I had failed to successfully return the serve, I know the “in” call would be decisive and the point would belong to my opponent. The rules 13.E.4/13/E.5 seem to indicate a replay is option when there are line judges and referees involved but we did not have line judges or referees. My opponent said they automatically get the point even though I returned the serve. Doesn’t seem fair but would love to learn the official rule for these circumstances. They argued they were hindered, but replaying point gives them ability to play the point over without the hinderence of the wrong initial line call. Hope this all makes sense. Looking forward to your reply.