SIMPLE ETIQUETTE AT THE TABLE

• We play bridge according to the EBU’s rules, so any infringement should be referred to the Director at the time. In spite of being a “friendly” club, it is important for any errors at the table to be referred to The Director whose decision is final. If a player feels they have been unfairly treated, please raise the issue at the end of the session, and if considered justified, a score compensation can be arranged then.
• Misunderstandings between partners are to be resolved outside the bridge room after play ceases. Arguments and criticism at the table exhibit bad manners, and are not acceptable behaviour. The same applies to negative comments about your opponent’s play.
• Do not touch your Bidding Box until you are ready to bid. Do not move between the Pass and Bid Sections of the Bidding Box.
• Do not take too long thinking about Bids and Play - as the EBU states 'best practice is always to try to play in tempo'. Slow play may be giving unauthorised information and may be disruptive, as well as disrespectful, to your opponents.
• Be aware that the time allowed per Board is 7 minutes - be aware that the Director may move tables, even if you have not completed all the Boards - potentially affecting your concentration. When the Director announces “time to move” if you and your table, have not commenced playing a Board (i.e. are still bidding) you will be asked to take an average score. Please note this may not be either an advantage or disadvantage.
• Please remember to use your STOP card when “jumping”.
• Please use the alert card or announce when your partner bids a convention or artificial bid. This is necessary up to a bid of 3NT. Frequent conventions, such as transfers can just be “announced”.
• Once the contract is agreed, the first card should be led by the player asking their partner, “any questions?” This negates risking a “lead out of turn” if done correctly and gives an opportunity to explain any misunderstandings during the bidding.
• Dummy should place their cards on the table without comment, other than “good luck partner”.
• Do not rack your cards until the score has been agreed, once the score has been entered into the BriAn app (or on to the Traveller) - that will be the agreed score and can only be altered in exceptional circumstances.
• Do not have a post-mortem after each board, especially when moving to a new table, again, this is disrespectful to your opponents, and be aware that others may be listening.