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

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 – COURTThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More 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 court 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.   If the net drapes onto the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and such a configuration is not corrected by the tournament staff prior to the start of play, and 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 deems a ball is affected by the draping net, it shall result in a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More.

Figure 2-2

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 in Figure 2-2 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 USAPA and IFP websites.

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- or IFP-sanctioned tournament must be named on the official list of approved balls posted on the USA PICKLEBALL and IFP websites: USA Pickleball.org and ipickleball.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 USAPA and IFP websites.

2.E.2.    Surface. The paddle’s hitting surface shall not contain delamination, holes, cracks or indentations that break the paddle skin or surface.

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. The only alterations or additions that can be made to a commercially made paddle are edge guard tape, lead tape,changes to the grip size or grip wrap,and adding 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.  Hand-drawn or handwritten markings are allowed on the paddle’s playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing.   [quads id=10] More 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 they do not impact the surface roughness and are in good taste. 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 other than “hand-drawn” or “handwritten” pen markings. Any hand-drawn or handwritten depictionsGraphics, insignias, pictures, and writing on apparel must be in good taste. More must be in good taste.

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.6.e. Removable parts. 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 removable parts except for paddle grip adjustmentsNon-mechanical devices that change the size of the grip or stabilize the hand on the grip. More and/or grip wraps and lead tape on the paddle edge.

2.E.7.    Model Designation. The manufacturer must have a clearly marked brand and model name or model number on the paddle. Paddles with different core material, surface material, or other significant differences must have a unique name or number.

2.F.      Equipment Approval and Authorization.

2.F.1.  USA PICKLEBALL/IFP 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/IFP Approved Paddle List. The lists of approved equipment may be posted on the USA PICKLEBALL and IFP websites: USA Pickleball.org and ipickleball.com.

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/IFP 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/IFP 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 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.2 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.3 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.4 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.5 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.6 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.7 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.8 Double HitHitting the ball twice before it is returned. More – Hitting the ball twice before it is returned.

3.A.9 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.10 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 – 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.11     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 the end of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.

3.A.12    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.13  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.14     GroundstrokeA strike of the ball after the ball has bounced. More – A strike of the ball after the ball has bounced.

3.A.15 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.16   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.17     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.18     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 “OUT”. 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 “wide”, “long”, “no”, “deep” are also acceptable.

3.A.19    Live 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 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.

3.A.20    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.21   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.22     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.23     Paddle HeadThe paddle, excluding the handle. More – The paddle, excluding the handle.

3.A.24     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.25     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.26     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.27     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.28     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.29     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.30    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.31     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.32    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.33     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.34     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.35    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.36     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.37     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.38     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.39     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.40    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.41    New: 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.
Old: 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 first 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 of a rule or behavioral
violation given to a player or team prior to 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. Points are not
awarded 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.
Reason: This clarified that technical warnings are for behavioral issues, not for faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More rule
violations. The word “verbal” was removed to avoid confusion with a 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.
The phrase “prior to 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” was removed because a technical
warning, for example for 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, is not required to be given before directly issuing 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; depending upon the severity

3.A.42     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.43     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.

3.A.44     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.45    New: 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
warning may be issued to each team once per match.

Old: 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 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 (VW) is an optional, nonpenalizing, game management tool. A VW is specific to 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 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 courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. Only one VW for 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 is permitted during a match.

Reason and Intent: The intent of this rule is to empower 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 use a verbal
warning as a method to control certain and specific behavioral issues in the match and
to prevent these issues from escalating. Verbal Warnings are not used for player faults.
Each team may now receive a single, specific 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 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 issued
to a team is not a “global” warning to both teams and 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 relevance on the opposing
team. For example, Team A may be given a 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 for 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 for a specific
word. Likewise, Team B may also be given a 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 for 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 for the same
word. If a team has been 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 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, a 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 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 be issued. (Note: Verbal Warnings should not be used for instances
when a specific application 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 should be applied as
in rules 13.G.1.g, 13.G.1.h, 13.G.2.d, and 13.G.2.f.)
Scenario A: Team B is repeatedly taking too much time to be set and ready to receive
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 should issue a 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 for delay of game.
Scenario B: Team A receives a 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 for saying the “F” word. During the
next rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More Team B also says the “F” word. 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 give a 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
Team B regardless of the prior 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 issued to Team A.

3.A.46     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.

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)

Figure 4-1

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. (Wheelchair) 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. New Rule: 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 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 use only one hand to release the ball to
perform the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. If the ball is visibly spun by 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 during the release, the part(s)
of the hand contacting the ball must be bare. 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 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. 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. A replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More shall be called before the
return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More if the release of the ball is not visible or 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 (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 in nonofficiated matches) cannot discern whether an item on the hand contacted a visibly
spun ball. Exception: A player who has the use of only one hand may use their hand or
paddle to release the ball to perform the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.

Reason and Intent: The year 2021 witnessed the introduction of new types of serves
due to an unintended loophole in the illegal 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 rule. This new rule brings us back to
pre-2021 serving guidelines. Several will wonder why all pre-serve spin hasn’t been outlawed. In other words, if the ‘Chain-saw serve’ was eliminated for 2022, why not also eliminate the one-handed spin prior to the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More? What follows are the primary reasons for the current approach taken by the Rules Committee and Board of Directors:

1. Unlike the ‘Chainsaw’ serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, which came about quite by accident, the onehanded spin serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More has been available to every player since 1965. There has
never been any restriction on pre-serve spin in the sport. That fact had
significant bearing on this rule.
2. We quickly realized we can’t write a rule that says, “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 added spin can be
provided to the ball before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.” That is difficult to enforce because every
transfer of the ball from one hand to the paddle will cause some rotational
velocity of the ball. To eliminate the one-handed spin-serve, we would have to
adopt something similar to the open palm presentation used in table tennis, if
we wanted to remove as much referee judgment as possible. Students of rules
will realize several referee judgment-related rules have been removed from the
Rulebook over the past two years. Adding words such as ‘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 manipulation’ or
‘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 rotation of the ball’ pre-serve are largely unenforceable with any degree of
consistency among players or referees. Eventually, putting a table-tennis type
pre-serve requirement in place was judged as a bridge too far at this stage,
given number 1 above, and the fact that if we adopted it, almost every player in
the world would have to modify their serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More routine. There is a reluctance to do
that, which, by the way, is the reason the drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More isn’t the only serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More
allowed in the sport. That, too, would be a transformational change 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. The one-handed spin-serve is considered a little more difficult to adopt and
perfect so while many speculate on this, we just don’t know at this point how
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 the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More will penetrate the sport, how quickly, or how effective it will be
across the player spectrum.
4. It’s important to allow for some degree of innovation in the sport, but at the
same time make sure one type of shot or style of play doesn’t dominate the
sport, especially for the social and recreational player.
5. Accordingly, we are adopting a wait and see approach.

This rule provides:
A. A distinct name (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) to differentiate it from the drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More of Rule
4.A.6.
B. The opportunity for servers to impart additional spin on the ball as part of the
release 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 spin is created by only the hand releasing the ball. That
means nothing can be used on or in addition to the single hand releasing the ball
to perform the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. For clarity, that means 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 body parts can be
used, 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 substances, apparatus’, or foreign material can be added to the part(s)
of the hand that is used to impart additional spin on the ball. This leaves open
the question of sunscreen, hand lotions, hand sanitizer and similar items. Those
are all acceptable 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 their application is what is considered normal and
customary. With respect to band aids and gloves on the release hand, 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 glove or band aid are not on the part of the hand that would be used to
impart spin on the ball, there are 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 restrictions for band aids and gloves. If,
however, a player chooses to wear or requires the use of a band aid or glove on
the part of the hand that is used to impart additional spin on the ball, the player
may not add spin to the ball. In other words, it is recognized that some normal
rotational velocity is imparted during any release of the ball. The normal
rotational velocity of a ball during release is not what this rule is trying to restrict.
C. A requirement that the 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 and
referee, if there is one. This aspect of the rule makes it consistent with the
visibility requirements of the drop in the Drop ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More Rule of 4.A.6

Scenario 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 is wearing a glove on the hand that releases the ball but has
removed the glove material allowing the thumb and first two fingers (that touch the ball) to be exposed and add spin to 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 allows this glove to be used.
Scenario B: 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 wearing a band-aid on their 4th (pinky) finger. 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
performs the release of the ball without the band-aid contacting 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
allows the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More as normal.
Scenario C: 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 wearing a glove on the hand that releases the ball but has
removed the glove material allowing the thumb and first two fingers to be exposed.
During the release of 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 sees that the last two fingers of the glove are in contact with the ball during the release, 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 additional spin was added to the release of the ball. This is allowed 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 lets the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More continue normally.
Scenario D: 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 turns their back 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) just as the ball is
being released on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More making it impossible for the release to be seen by the
referee (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). 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 for a re-serve and informs 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 ensure
that the release is visible to both 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. If this becomes a continuing issue in 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, but is not required to, issue a 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 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 for delay of game.
Scenario E: 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 spins and releases the ball to perform the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start 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
doesn’t like the spin and lets the ball bounce, then picks up the ball and spin/releases
the ball again to perform the 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 allows the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to occur because the
10-second count had not expired. 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 may release the ball as many times as
they like 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 they serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More within the 10-second count.
Note: Players are expected to understand the intent of this rule. To that end, we do not expect tournament players to be ‘inspected’ 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 verify player’s hands are bare.

4.A.6. The Drop ServeThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.

4.A.6.a. New: Servers must release the ball from one of the server’s hands or dropped off the server’s paddle face from any natural (un-aided) height and hit the ball after the ball
bounces. 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. 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 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. 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. A replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More shall be called before the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More if
the release of the ball is not visible. The rules for feet placement (4.A.4) still apply.

Reason and Intent: This rule was changed for clarity on how many times 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
may let the ball bounce before performing the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. The intent of this rule is to allow
the ball to bounce as many times 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 chooses before they strike the ball to
perform the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More 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 serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More is made within 10 seconds after the score is
called. The rule also clarifies that the ball may bounce anywhere on the playing surfaceThe court and the area surrounding the court designated for playing.   [quads id=10] More
before it is struck to perform the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.

Old: Servers must release the ball from one of the server’s hands or dropped off the server’s paddle face from any natural (un-aided) height and hit the ball after the ball bounces. 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 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. 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. A replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More shall be called before the return of serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More if the release of the ball is not visible. The rules for feet placement (4.A.2) still apply.

4.A.6.b. The ball shall not be propelled (thrown) downward or tossed or hit upward with the paddle.

4.A.6.c. If the drop serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More is used, the ball may be struck with either a forehand or backhand motion without any other restriction i.e., the location restrictions of the ball and paddle in Rules 4.A.5.a, 4.A.5.b and 4.A.5.c do not apply.

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.

4.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.  New: 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. 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.10. 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.

Reason: This change is part of the goal to reduce player and referee conflicts that
happen before the ball is served. It removes the confusion and debate that was caused concerning the receiving team needing time to reposition verses the serving team running 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 10-second count because they could not decipher their correct service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More. It also works in conjunction with players being allowed to ask score, correct player and position questions and thereby reducing the frequency that the serving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More changes will occur. The instruction for 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 call “Time” was added to ensure that if by chance 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 does happen to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More the ball, 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 will be applied because the ball was immediately dead 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 called “Time” and is not live/in-play again until the restart of the score call. (Rule 8.E)

Scenario: 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 positioned in the incorrect service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. More and the receiving team is aligned accordingly. 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 and starts the 10-second count. 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 starts the service motion and then stops and asks if she is in the correct 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 should call “Time” and reply that she is NOT in the correct position. 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 switches service 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 instructs that he will allow time for the receiving team to reposition and then recall the score. The serving team quickly repositions. While the receiving team is getting into the proper position, 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 ball to the receiving team’s side. (Note. This is not an actual serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. A serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More can only happen when the ball is live.) 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 instructs the receiving team to return the ball and reminds 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 that he (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 to restart the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. 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 faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More was committed in this entire scenario. 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 did not run 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 10-seconds because play was halted when the correct position question was asked (causing 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 call “time”). 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 also did not commit a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More by hitting/serving the ball before 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 had recalled the score: 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 called “Time”, the ball was dead and per Rule 8.E. 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 faults (except 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 violations) can be committed during a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More.

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.  New: Wrong Score Called. 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 or referee calls the wrong score, once the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More is made, play shall continue to the end of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More and the correction made before
the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. After the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More is made, a player who stops play based solely on an incorrect score call, 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.

Reason and Intent: The intent of this rule is 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 player should stop play after the
serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs based on the sole claim of an incorrect score call. The new rule states that
any correction for an error in the calling of the score must be made either before the
serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs, or after the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More is completed. Stopping play after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More based solely
on an incorrect score call is a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. Based on an incorrect score call, if a player believes
an incorrect player/position faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More has occurred, a referee correction will be applied up
until the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.

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 incorrect 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 serves and 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
catches the ball and claims 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 has called an incorrect score. 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 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 for stopping play based solely on an incorrect score call.

Scenario B: All players are lined up correctly. 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 an incorrect serving
team score. 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 catches the ball after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More and claims that the serving
team was 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 based on the score that was 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 says,
“Referee correction” and calls for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More. (Same result for opposite application)

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 an incorrect 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 serves and 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
catches the ball and claims both an incorrect score call and 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 (based
on the incorrect score 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 says, ‘Referee correction” and replays the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More.

Scenario D: Match point. 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 an incorrect score. Serving team wins the
rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More and the match. Receiving team claims 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 based on the incorrect
score 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 says, “Referee correction” and calls for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More of match point.

Note: The reason for the replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More is that the entire rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More was based on a referee error;
which could have impacted the concentration of one or both teams.

Old: Wrong Score Called. 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 or referee calls the wrong score, any
player may stop play before the “third shot” occurs to ask for a correction.

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. In doubles, the incorrect player serves the ball.

4.M.3. The served ball touches 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 it hits the ground.

4.M.4. 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.5. 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.6.  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.7.  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.8.  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.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 uses an illegal serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More (Rules 4.A.5.a, 4.A.5.b, 4.A.5.c) 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. (Rules 4.A – 4.A.5.d)

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 or their partner calls a time-out after the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More has occurred.

4.M.11.  A faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More occurs 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 hits the ball to make the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More while the score is being called.

Reason: This new rule complements and assigns a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More penalty if rule 4.A.1 has been violated (serving before the entire score is called) The rule has a definite start point and end point on when a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More can be called for serving too early. After a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More has ended, the ball is dead until the score starts to be called. Per rule 8.E, when the ball is dead, 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 faults can be called; therefore, if a 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 before the start of the score call, 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 penalty.

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 starts to call the 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 ball before 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 has finished calling the score. 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 should immediately call a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.

Scenario B: After a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More has ended, but before 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 starts to call the 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 serves 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 should not call a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More since the ball is “dead”. 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 should remind 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 wait until the entire score has been called before serving the ball. This scenario is in accordance with new rule 8.E. which details that when we are in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More situation, faults cannot be committed specifically because we are in a dead ballA ball that is no longer in play. More state of play.

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 incorrect player returns the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.

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 the receiver’s partner is touched by or interferes with the flight of the ball before it bounces.

4.N.3. 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.

Reason: This change is part of the goal to move all timing faults to a consistent point-in-time which is the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More of the ball.

The Rules Committee Considerations

The Rules Committee is committed to the following priorities when they approve rules:

1. The first priority is preserving the integrity of the game. Nothing is more important to the committee than that.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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.    Sides and initial service will be switched 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.

5.B.4.    In a game to 15 points, sides will be switched 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, sides will be switched 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. A maximum of one minute is allowed to switch ends during a game. Rule 10.A.5 procedures will be followed to continue play.

5.B.7. New: 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.

Reason: There was some debate as to what would happen if during the end change,
the team with 6 (or 8 or 11) points committed a TF resulting in the loss of a point.
Should the end change be “reversed” and not allowed to happen? This states that once
the end change starts, it will be completed regardless of any team’s score change

Old: After the end change has occurred, 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 completed 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.

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 lands in the correct service courtThe area on either side of the centerline, including the centerline, sideline, and baseline, excluding the NVZ. 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.

6.B.     Except the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, any 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.C:     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 “out”.

6.D.      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 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 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.D.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 “out” 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 “out” decision.

6.D.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.D.3.  The opponent gets the benefit of the doubt on line calls made. Any ball that cannot be called “out” 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.D.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.D.5.  A player should not question an opponent’s call, although 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 before the next serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs.

6.D.6.   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 side of the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More. If requested and the opponent makes a clear “in” or “out” call, it must be accepted. If the opponents cannot make a clear “in” or “out” 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.D.7.   Players shall not call a ball “out” unless they can clearly see a space between the line and the ball as it hits the ground.

6.D.8.  All “out” calls must be made “promptly”; otherwise, the ball is presumed to still be 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. “Promptly” is defined as calling “out” prior to the ball being hit by the opponent or before the ball becomes dead.

6.D.9.   In doubles play, if one player calls the ball “out” 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.D.10.  “Out” line calls should be promptly signaled by voice and/or hand signal (as described in Rule 13.E.2).

6.D.11.   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.D.12.   An “out” 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 “out” 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 “out” 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.)

6.D.13.  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, 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

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 player hitting a ball 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 hit the ball before it bounces twice on the receiving player’s courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and failure of 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 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 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.

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 the player’s hands are 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.

7.I.        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 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.)

7.J.      New: 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.

Reason: This small change clarifies that after the score had been called (the ball is
“live”) but before the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More occurs, if the ball happened to slip 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 server’s hand
and rolled and touched 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, such as a bleacher or fence, this is not a
faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More 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 served within the 10-second count.

Old: 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 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 it passes the plane of the netThe imaginary vertical planes on all sides extending beyond the net system. More.

7.L.    New: A player deliberately 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.

Reason: The unintended consequence in 2021 for allowing a player to “sling” the ball
on the paddle face allowed for tremendous spin to be applied to the ball on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.
This change simply puts the rule back to previous years of how the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More was to be
performed. This rule eliminates the colloquial ‘Covid serve’ and the ‘Chainsaw serve’.
The change also allows for a player to “balance” a ball on their paddle before, during or
after the score call 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 they don’t sling the ball off the paddle face to perform the
serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More.

Old: After the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, a player deliberately carrying or catching the ball on the
paddle while the ball is live/in-play.

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.    New Rule: 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 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) are carried in a way that the ball(s) are not visible to their opponent 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.

Reason and Intent: The intent of this rule is to allow players to 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 balls on their
person in non-officiated matches with some limitations. Many times, carrying an extra
ball is more efficient if the 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 has been hit beyond the playing area. While this
rule allows for the carrying of an extra ball (or balls), the rule should not be used as a
“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 of jail free” card as listed in Scenario C below. While the rule allows for extra
balls to be carried, it applies a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More if the ball falls on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More during play. This rule is
only for non-officiated matches because referees are responsible for removing any extra
balls from the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More for officiated matches. In matches with a referee, any dropped ball
will result in a referee correction and replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More. This rule pertains specifically to pickleballs
only. If anything other than a pickleball falls from a player’s person, the normal rules
governing these conditions shall apply.

Scenario A: In a non-officiated match, a player is carrying an extra ball in their pocket.
During a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, the ball falls 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 their pocket but 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. The opponents
claim 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 but the player who dropped the ball states that since the ball
landed 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 and not on the actual courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, it is not a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More. The opponents are
correct that 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 has occurred.

Scenario B: During a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, a ball falls 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 a player’s pocket and 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.
The opponents claim 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 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 calls a “referee
correction” and calls for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More. In this scenario, 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 should have ensured that
all other balls were removed from play, even 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 didn’t notice the extra ball
prior to the start of the game.

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 does not notice that a player is carrying an extra ball. During
a live rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, the opponents are about to hit a hard shot to potentially end the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. The
referee then notices that a player deliberately reaches in their pocket and takes 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
ball and lets it fall on the ground just prior to the opponents hitting their shot. The
opponent’s shot is a winner, but the player who dropped the ball claims that this is a
“referee correction” and a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More should 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 determines that the player
deliberately removed the ball and dropped it in an effort to cause a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More and prevent
the loss of the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. (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 denies the request for a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More and 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 on the player who dropped the ball; or, (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 denies the
request and lets the rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More stand and issues 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 for
unsportsmanlike conduct.

SECTION 8 – DEAD BALL RULES

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 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. New: 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, faults may only be committed when the
ball is live. The penalty for faults (other than not 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) are normally
enforced the moment they are identified (e.g., incorrect player/position, 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.

Reason: This rule change removed the wording about calling technical fouls and
technical warnings and the associated confusion that a TW/TF could be called during a
live rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More. It further clarifies the time parameters on when faults can be called and
applied.

Scenario: During a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More, the serving player loudly utters a 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. The rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More
continues for a few more exchanges with 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 winning the 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
awards a point to the serving team and then applies the appropriate 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,
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. A referee shall never stop a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More to issue one of
these penalties. The rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More must first be completed.

Old: 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, faults may only be committed when
the ball is live and in-play. The penalty for a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More may be enforced after a rallyContinuous play that occurs after the serve and before a fault. More has
ended (e.g., 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, incorrect player/position etc.,) Note: Technical warnings or technical
fouls may be called at any time during the match including when the ball is dead.

SECTION 9 – NON-VOLLEY-ZONE RULES

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 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, 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 volley9.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 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, 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 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, 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 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 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

10. 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. New: 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.

Reason and Intent: The intent of this rule change is (under normal standard playing
conditions) to minimize the opportunity (but does not eliminate) that a 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 to
an empty receiving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More because a 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 is late coming back to the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More after a
time-out. Or, calling a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More for a 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 not getting back in time and violating the 10
second rule. This change removes the rigidness of rule 10.A.5 and allows 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
control the pace and flow of the match without being forced into situations where the
referee must call the score when one or more players are not in position and ready to
play. The approach in 10.A.5 would now be similar to Rule 4.D in 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 will
now determine when players should be ready and when the score is to be called. The
referee has several tools to get players back playing in a timely manner. After issuing
the 15-second warning, 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 notices that players aren’t making their way back
to the 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 may remind players, firmly at times, that play needs to continue.
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 issue a 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 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 for delay of game 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 team is causing an avoidable delay.

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 gives the 15-second warning and notices that the players are
not responding and have not started to make their way back to the 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
then says firmly and loudly, “Let’s go/We gotta’ play/I’ve called 15-seconds”. If a team
still does not respond, 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 walk towards the team and again admonish
them to get back to the playing courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. 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 determines that a team is avoidably
delaying the game, 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 issue a 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 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 for
delay of game. The intent here is 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 has several ways in which to get
players back to playing without reverting to calling the score which can have
embarrassing consequences to all involved.
Scenario B: After a time-out has expired, 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 ready to serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More properly from the
right-hand 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 and receiver’s partner are stacking and are standing near
the left 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 to receive 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 looks at them with a puzzling look to which
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 replies, “I’m ready”. 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 waits a few more moments expecting 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 partner) to ask if they are in the correct position since that are not setup
diagonally to receive the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More. (Note: 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 was certain 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 going to
serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to the wrong courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and commit a 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 position faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More) Since 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 was
ready to receive serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, even though it was to the incorrect courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More, 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 player has
asked any score/player/position questions, 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 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 to a completely empty right hand 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 then calls “point”
when the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More was not returned. 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 explains to the receiving team that in fact
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 did serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More from the correct position and furthermore explained that the
receiving team could have asked if they were in the proper position. In this extremely
rare situation, since all players were on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and “ready to play” 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 one had
asked any correct player/position questions, 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 was correct in calling the score
and having 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 serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More to an empty receiving courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More.

Old: 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 give the players a warning when there are 15 seconds
remaining. At the end of the time-out, 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 in” and announce the
score to begin the 10-second count even if all players are not on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More or not ready
to play. 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 does not serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More within 10 seconds after the score is called, 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 time-outs are called or available, a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More will be called.

10. 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.

10. 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.

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).

10. 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.

10. 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. Rule 10.A.5 procedures will be followed to begin play for the tie-breaker match.

10. 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.

10. 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 at the start of the second or third game in a two-out-of-three game match

Reason: This reasserts that a match may not start until all players are present and it further clarifies that neither medical nor regular time-outs may be taken before the match starts.

Scenario: During the warm-up time, a Team A player says his partner is “detained” and that they may need to take a time-out before the match starts. 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 says she cannot grant this request and they need to follow the rules on time limits when starting a match and that all players must be present to start the match. The Team A player goes and gets the previously detained partner and everyone is there on time to start 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 starts game one by calling, “Game one, time-in, 0-0-2” During the middle of the score calling, a Team A player calls for a time-out 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 grants the time-out accordingly. The partner is still not back 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 calls, “Time-in, 0-0-2” and again, during the middle of the score calling, the Team A player calls for their 2nd time-out. 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 grants the 2nd time-out accordingly.

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. New: 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 medical
time-outs will not be charged against the player.

Reason: A player should not lose their medical TO unless they have requested to use
their medical time-out. Anecdotal feedback from referees indicated that medical
personnel rarely determine that a medical issue is invalid. In the case where they are
called to attend to a player at the referee’s discretion, the probability approaches
certainty that medical personnel will treat the player for some type of issue and
conclude the referee’s concern did result in a valid medical reason; thus normally
resulting in the player losing their ability to call for a medical time-out on their own
accord. This rule protects the player’s right to personally ask for a medical time-out in
situations where 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 trying to ensure player safety

Old: In the interest of overall 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.) 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. If determined to be a valid medical situation requiring treatment, 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 charge a medical time-out to the affected player and proceed in accordance with
Rule 10.B. If the player did not require treatment, play resumes 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
charged to the player. If the player has previously used, or been charged 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 will call a referee time-out and summon medical personnel or the
Tournament Director to determine if the player may resume play.

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 procedures shall be used to resume play.

SECTION 11 – OTHER RULES

11.A.    New: 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.

Reason: This rule reverts back to the prior 2021 rule where double hits while attempting
the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More were not allowed. The change also allows for players that habitually bounce
the ball with their paddle, or on the side edge of their paddle, do so before they start
their normal service routine without incurring a faultA rules violation that results in a dead ball and the end of the rally. More.

Old. Balls can be hit twice, but this must occur during an unintentional, continuous, single-direction stroke, by one player. After the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, if the stroke is deliberate, or 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 side 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. 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.1.   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 that includes a center base:

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, if the ball goes over the net and hits the center base, or any part of the horizontal bar, or the ball gets caught between the net and the horizontal bar, a replayAny rally that is restarted for any reason without the awarding of a point or a change of server. More will be called. Other than on the serveThe initial strike of the ball to start the rally. More, if the ball goes over the net and bounces on the courtThe area inside the outer dimensions of the baselines and sidelines. More and then performs any of the 3 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.

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.

12. A. Event Categories.  Men: Singles and Doubles Women: Singles and Doubles Mixed: 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. B. Tournament Game Options. The primary and recommended tournament scoring option to be used is best two of three games to 11 points, win by 2 points. Other options include: one game to 15 or one game to 21. All formats win by 2 points.

12.C.2. Double Elimination. The first player or team to score the match-winning point by at least a 2-point margin wins. A loss will put the loser into the consolation bracket. Players or 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.3. Round Robin. All players or 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:

12.C.3.a. First tie-breaker: head-to-head matches won.

12.C.3.b. 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.3.c. Third tie-breaker: head-to-head point differential.

12.C.3.d. Fourth tie-breaker: point differential against next-highest team. (e.g., If the teams are tied for second, use point differentials against the first-place team.)

12.C.1. Single Elimination with Consolation. The first player or team to score the match-winning point by at least a 2-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 or teams in the winner’s bracket play for the gold/first-place and silver/second-place medals.

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 his or her designated representative shall notify the players of the changes.

12.F. Retirements and Withdrawals.

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.F.6.a)

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.F.5. Withdrawals:

12.F.5.a. A player/team may request to be withdrawn from any scheduled bracket(s) that have not been started by tournament operations personnel.
12.F.5.b. 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.F.5.c. 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.F.5.d. The withdrawn player/team shall be removed from any future participation in the specified bracket.
12.F.5.e. 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.F.7.)

12.F.6. Forfeit, Ejections and RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More Match Scoring Guidelines

12.F.6.a. Existing:
Scoring guidelines are:
2 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 3 Format: 11-0, 11-0
1 Game to 15(21) Format: 15-0 (21-0)
New: 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 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 2-out-of-3 match,
a team with 10 points retires when the score is 10-5. The final scores will be reported
as: “12-10, 11-0”. Game scores after a rule-based forfeit shall be reported as: 2/3
Format: “11-0, 11-0”. 15/21 Format: “15-0” or “21-0”.

Reason: Once 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 has started the match by saying, “Time-in” the only option
for a player to voluntarily not continue the match is a RetirementA player/team’s decision that stops the match and awards the match to the opponent. More. This change would
allow the retiring team to keep any points earned during the match, which could be
helpful in round robin brackets which use points differential as a tie breaker. It also
allows for the team that does not retire to receive all the necessary points to ensure
proper match completion.

Scenario: A singles 2-out-of-three match. Player B won game 1 with a score of 11-5.
Player A won game 2 with a score of 11-9. In game 3, the score is 10-2 with Player A
Game scores after a rule-based forfeit shall be reported as:
2/3 Format: “11-0, 11-0”
15/21 Format: “15-0” or “21-0”

12.F.6.b. 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.F.6.c. 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.