In order to promote friendly games and not intimidate others, we must implement the ACBL ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY. The behavior of some of our bridge players is unacceptable at times and WE MUST CURTAIL THIS DISRUPTIVE CONDUCT. We are scaring people away rather than welcoming new bridge players into our club.
Our ultimate purpose is to create a pleasant, fun atmosphere so that everybody, especially new players, will want to come back. We need to do everything we can to entice new players. Obnoxious behavior only drives them away.
Examples of commendable behavior that we should strive for:
- Be friendly.
- Introduce yourself.
- Be complimentary to your opponents.
- Try not to do anything that might annoy anyone, or stop whatever it is, if anyone suggests that you are annoying them.
- Since this a timed event, there are things we can do to speed up the game:
- Lead when it’s your turn, then write down the contract.
- When you are dummy, lay the dummy down before writing down the contract.
- While we are not really supposed to discuss hands, we all seem to do it. Do not do so until the round is over, and then, only so that no one at other tables can hear.
- If you disagree with a director’s ruling, politely ask the director to show you the rule in the book, which may clear up any misunderstanding.
Examples of behavior that will not be tolerated:
- Arguing or raising voices with partners, opponents or directors
- Being rude, sarcastic, belittling, insinuating, intimidating, profane, badgering, threatening or violent
- Singing or talking during the bidding or play of the hand, with the exception of requesting an explanation of bids
- Negative and/or sarcastic comments concerning opponents’ or partner’s play or bidding
- Gratuitous lessons and analyses at the table. However, if someone asks for help, it’s OK to offer suggestions.
- Any loud or disruptive behavior
- Snapping cards on the table or any other expression of displeasure, including facial expressions
- If anyone encounters any of this behavior, even if it’s at a table other than yours, please call the director immediately.
- Records will be kept of unsuitable behavior and when there are complaints; action will be taken by the Conduct and Ethics Committee.
Keep in mind that while some will say “It’s only a game,” to others it’s more than that. EITHER WAY IT SHOULD ALWAYS BE FUN, and it’s not fun when we are subjected to rudeness and bickering.
Let’s do everything we can to make this a fun, friendly, pleasant environment where anyone can come and have a good time. We all know it’s more fun when we win. Let’s keep it possible to have fun even when we don’t.