Where The Fun Is!

Houston Bridge Studio

Zero Tolerance

The Houston Bridge Studio supports and enforces the Unit 174 Zero Tolerance Policy, which is stated below:

Unit 174 Zero Tolerance Policy

The Unit 174 Board of Directors is committed to promoting acceptable player behavior at all times. In accordance with Laws 74, 80F, 81C4, 90A, 91, and 92A (Laws of Duplicate Bridge) the following policy outlines what is expected of all players during club games and unit tournaments and special events.

The ultimate purpose of the Z-T policy is to assure a pleasant atmosphere for all players.

Below are some examples of commendable behavior, which, while not required, will significantly contribute to the improved atmosphere: 

·       Being a good 'host' or 'guest' at the table.

·       Greeting others in a friendly manner.

·       Praising the bidding and/or play of the opponents.

·       Having two clearly completed convention cards readily available to the opponents.

The following are some examples of behavior that will not be tolerated:

·       Badgering, rudeness, insinuations, intimidation, profanity, threats, or violence.

·       Negative comments concerning opponents' or partner's play or bidding.

·       Constant and gratuitous lessons and analyses at the table.

·       Loud and disruptive arguing with a director's ruling.

If a player at the table behaves in an unacceptable manner, the director should be called immediately. Annoying behavior, embarrassing remarks, or any other conduct which might interfere with the enjoyment of the game is specifically prohibited by Law 74A. Law 91A gives the director the authority to assess disciplinary penalties.

The following procedures have been given to the tournament directors and club managers for implementation.

The director should be called whenever behavior is not consistent with the guidelines outlined above.

The director, when called, shall make an assessment of the situation. If it is established that there was unacceptable behavior, an immediate ¼ board disciplinary penalty (3 IMP in team games) shall be assigned to all offenders. This may involve any one or all four players at the table irrespective of who initiated the unacceptable behavior. If both members of a partnership are guilty, the penalties are additive (¼ board EACH = ½ board!).

If it is determined that the same offender is responsible for a second offense in the same event, the offender(s) shall be ejected from future competition in that game. An offender removed from an event shall be deemed to have not played in the game and no masterpoints will be awarded. All previously obtained results shall, however, remain valid as to their effect upon other competitors.

Whenever a director encounters a second disciplinary incident involving the same player in a 12-month period, the director is to file a disciplinary report with the recorder and the Unit president. The Unit president will determine whether a disciplinary committee shall be formed to consider further disciplinary action.

The director may file a disciplinary report after the first incident if he/she believes the severity of the offense so warrants.

Errors on this web site should be reported to Bert Onstott at BertOnstott@comcast.net.