Code of Conduct

The Club endorses the 'Best Behaviour at Bridge' advice issued by the English Bridge Union, which is reprinted below with minor modifications. Bridge is an extremely enjoyable game. Courteous behaviour is an exceptionally important part of that enjoyment.

This guide serves as a brief reminder of how to behave at the bridge table. We are sure that all players naturally follow this code of conduct but there are times when concentration and pressure may take their toll. It is for these situations that we issue this as a reminder.

  • Greet others in a friendly manner prior to start of play on each round.
  • Be a good 'host' or 'guest' at the table.
  • Make bridge enjoyable for yourself, your partner and your opponents.
  • Give credit when your opponents make a good bid or play.
  • Take care of your personal grooming.
  • Ensure that your mobile phone is switched off.
  • Enjoy the company as well as the game.

Remember that it is rude to criticise your partner or your opponents in public, to be less than poilte at the table, to gloat over good results, to object to a call for the Tournament Director, or to dispute or argue about a director's ruling. You may appeal if you consider a ruling to be wrong, but do not argue the case at the table nor at subsequent tables.

As in all games that are governed by rules and regulations, bad behaviour will be penalised. If a player behaves in an unacceptable manner at the table, the Director should be called immediately.

Annoying behaviour, embarrassing remarks, inappropriate language or any other conduct which might interfere with the enjoyment of the game is specifically prohibited by World Bridge Federation [WBF] Law 74A.

WBF Law 91A gives the Director the authority to assess and impose disciplinary penalties. These may include immediate disciplinary board penalties, and if a further violation is incurred at the same event, disqualification from future competition in that event. Any further violations may result in a disciplinary hearing where future participation in tournaments by the offiending player[s] will be considered; such hearings will be based on the Club's Disciplinary Procedures.

A copy of this document and of the disciplinary procedures is available on request.

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