SECOND LESSON – PLATFORM TENNIS 201

By Charles E. Vasoll

Now that you know where to get detailed information, I want to help you with those initial problems that I have indicated that you should know.

ETIQUETTE

For some individuals, etiquette is natural but most of us have to work at it. It is, however, one of the most important aspects of the sport of platform tennis. The game was invented by “gentlemen” and that is the manner in which it is expected to be contested. Good manners, proper language, honesty, politeness, and the extension of courtesy to opponents at all times, are just some of the tenets of platform tennis etiquette.

The highest example of this term is when it is stated “that in case of doubt about the call of a ball being in or out, the etiquette of platform tennis calls for the resolution of the question to be in favor of the opponent”. That means you make the call against yourself, if you did not see the location of the ball or even if you did, but still were not certain, award the point to your opponent.

Now on first review this may seem foolish but I assure you that it is not. Obviously you have shown your opponents good will and that places them in a position to do the same when they are tested with a similar situation. Further, since they cannot be mad at you, they will find it more difficult to work harder to defeat you.

Being “polite” refers to even simple actions like returning the ball conveniently to the opponent who is serving at the close of a point. Kicking it, hitting it hard off the screen, throwing it when his back is turned, are all inappropriate.

Good manners include such basic actions as compliments on an exceptional shot; saying “Congratulations and good luck in your next match” when you walk off the court as a loser; introducing yourself and saying “Play well” at the start of the competition and certainly refraining from obscenities and hitting the deck with the paddle during play.

The practice of good etiquette on and off the court will earn respect for you as a player and as an individual. That’s what our game (and life) is all about.

There are many other useful suggestions and behavioral guidelines in the Etiquette section of the Official Rules Book, which every player should read.

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