Line Calls | Composure Tips | Spectators | Special Situations

Introduction

These guidelines emphasize good sportsmanship, and bending over backwards to give your opponent the benefit of the doubt.

Line Calls

1. If you're not certain that your opponent's shot was out, assume that it was in. Normally, you can be certain the shot was out if you see space between the line and where the ball touched down. Be careful, though. Sometimes, the ball will touch the line and then skid a bit, making it appear to be out.

2. You must make an out call immediately after the ball bounces. If you hesitate, think it over, or look for a mark, you clearly weren't certain and should assume the ball was in.

3. Sometimes, you'll have the best view of where your own landed. What should you do if you're certain your shot was out, but your opponent doesn't call it out? You're not required to call your own shot out, but it's a sign of good sportsmanship. Don't expect your opponent to do the same thing, though!

4. What if you're sure your own serve was out, but your opponent doesn't call it out? That will depend on whether it's your second serve or first serve. If it's your second serve, just call it out, giving the point to your opponent. If it's your first serve, you have a choice. You can call it out immediately, before your opponent's return has been made, or you can just play the point. What you can't do is wait until your opponent wins the point and then claim that your serve was out!

5. If an interruption to the point occurs, such as a ball rolling onto the court, either player may immediately call "Let" and the point can be replayed. You can't wait until the point is decided, though.

6. If you're not certain of a call, it's not okay to say, "Let's play it over." If there is uncertainty, the ball was good!

7. What should you do if you call a shot out, and then begin to have doubts? It's always okay to change your mind and give the point to your opponent, even a few points after the fact! Just say, "I wasn't 100% sure on that call, so it's your point. Sorry for the confusion!"

Composure Tips

1. Before the match, make a list of the three or four things that are most important. At the top of the list, put sportsmanship items: “Give every questionable call to my opponent” “Don’t argue over calls” and so on.

2. If you’re playing an opponent for the first time, briefly discuss sportsmanship issues beforehand. For example, you might say, “I’ll call my own shots out if I’m sure they’re out, but I realize you might have a different approach.”

3. If your opponent questions a call, first ask yourself if you were sure of your call. If not, reverse your call. If you were sure, consider saying, “I’m sure the ball was out, but you may have the point if you like.” This will usually shame your opponent into silence.

4. During the match, keep yourself in a pleasurable state of mind, just because you’re healthy and able to play. Don’t let your state of mind be controlled by how the match is going.

5. Be careful what you say after the match. If you lost, avoid anger and excuses. Just remain cheerful, and give your opponent the credit. If you won, avoid gestures or comments that might appear boastful. Consider changing the subject.

Parents, Coaches and Other Spectators

1. When you’re playing a match, you’re in charge. Avoid receiving coaching from parents, coaches, or others.

2. Parents and coaches should not interfere with the match by coaching, questioning line calls, helping with the score, etc.

3. Parents, spectators, and coaches should avoid cheering too much for one player. Applaud for either player after a good shot or point. Also, avoid cheering after a point if either player made an error.

Special Situations

These will be added as they arise. Please check back later.