A few reminders for the season ahead:
1. Respect the umpires – and step up when needed
We do not have official umpires for every match, so we rely on players to take their turn and umpire when required. Please respect the umpire's decisions, even when you disagree with them.
If there is a problem or you believe a decision needs clarification, stop and call the Referee immediately. Please don't allow disagreements to escalate between players.
If you lose a game, come to the control table to take your turn scoring.
2. No cross-knocking or 2 x 2 knocking etc
Do not cross-knock; knock with more than one ball; have 2-on, 2-off knocking; or any other combination which isn't two players and one ball in one court.
We know that in any tournament there is a likelihood of balls from one table flying into another playing court while a point is in progress. We know this results in 'lets' and frustrating disruptions to play. We can't avoid that - but we can limit the potential disruption by not having multiple balls flying around when more than two people are knocking up in courts.
3. Please be ready 15 minutes early
When you are required to play, please be at the venue and ready to play at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. We often run a bit ahead of schedule.
Late arrivals can cause delays and make it difficult to keep tournaments running to schedule and risk being scratched form the event.
Check in on Saturday and Sunday morning, and check out if you are leaving the hall for more than a few minutes.
4. Check the scores before returning the sheet
Before handing your score sheet back, all players should check that the scores have been recorded correctly.
Once a sheet has been returned, correcting an error can be difficult, so please take a few seconds to check it carefully.
5. VETTS membership
To compete in VETTS competitions, you need to be a VETTS member. You do not need to be a Table Tennis England (TTE) member to play in VETTS competitions. This is something that still seems to cause some confusion.
6. Remember – we are a friendly society
VETTS is a competitive organisation, but it is also a friendly society. Many of us have played together for years, while others may be attending their first VETTS event.
Please be welcoming, courteous and considerate to fellow players, supporters, officials and the volunteers who give their time to run our competitions.
Zero tolerance for unacceptable behaviour
Finally, and most importantly, VETTS has zero tolerance for aggressive, abusive or offensive behaviour towards other players, supporters, officials or volunteers.
We understand that competition can sometimes be frustrating and emotions can run high. However, there is never an excuse for intimidation, aggression, abuse or offensive behaviour.
Let's make sure that the new season is remembered for what VETTS does best – great table tennis, good competition, friendship, laughter and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Good luck to everyone for the season ahead – and enjoy your table tennis!
Susie Venner, Chair, VETTS