The ACBL Board of Directors and
Management are committed to improving 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 NABCs and other ACBL sponsored events,
as well as in the playing area before and after each session.
The ultimate purpose of the Z-T policy
is to create a much more pleasant atmosphere in our NABCs. We are
attempting to eradicate unacceptable behavior in order to make the game
of bridge more enjoyable for all. 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 (This one is a regulation, not just a nicety)
The following list are some examples
of behavior which 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 for implementation.
- At the start of each event, the director shall make an
announcement that the tournament will be observing ZERO TOLERANCE for
unacceptable behavior. It is requested that the director 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!). The Board of Directors strongly
believes that assignment of disciplinary penalties will improve the
overall behavior at our tournaments.
- If it is determined that a second offense has occurred in the
same event, then the offender(s) shall be ejected from future
competition in that event. An offender removed from an event shall be
deemed to have not played in the event, no masterpoints will be awarded
and no refunds will be made. In the case of a serious offense and in
the case of multiple offenses (three) during a tournament, a
disciplinary committee may be convened to determine whether the
offender(s) should be allowed to play in other events at the tournament
and/or whether additional sanctions may be appropriate.
- Warnings are strongly discouraged and will be given only when
there is no clear violation or in cases where the facts cannot be
determined. Offenders are to receive immediate penalties. Regardless of
who may have initiated unacceptable behavior, ALL offenses are
punishable. Retaliatory behavior is a punishable offense. Frivolous
accusations will also be considered as offenses under this policy.
- In accordance with the Laws of Duplicate Bridge, a
director's decision to impose a disciplinary is final; however, all
such decisions may be appealed. An appeals committee may not overturn
the director's decision, but could recommend that the director
reconsider the imposition of a penalty. It should be noted that the
committee may feel that the penalty assessed was not severe enough and
may refer the matter to a disciplinary committee.
- A Zero Tolerance Report Form shall be available for
players to report incidents which occur away from the table; and for
directors to document complaints and action taken. The DIC shall
provide a summary report of all behavioral penalties to the Tournament
Chairman and/or Recorder.