It's objectives are to:

 Raise the standard of umpires and referees.

 Standardise the interpretation of the rules with training.
 Set a dress code.
 Have sufficient personnel to hold international contests without importing overseas
international umpires.
 Increase the number of people involved
 Encourage inactive umpires to participate again.
 Arrange training in Australia for top national qualified umpires under the Oceania
umpires committee.
 Train New Zealand Umpires.
 Award developing Umpires.

Table Tennis Umpires

The ETTA National Umpires and Referees Committee are trying to
recruit Local and County Umpires, encouraging Local Leagues and
Premier Clubs to qualify just one person over a two year period.
The latest info can be found in I want to be an umpire.pdf
Listed below are the notes prepared by the ETTA that canbe
downloaded in a PDF file from the above site. The PDF file also
includes a test paper that budding Local Umpires can complete in
their own time (and on their own!) and submit to the ETTA.
Successful entries would then sit a practical to complete their
qualification test.

These notes are basically the laws of Table Tennis but in finer detail.
They make good reading, and the Questions will make even the more
experienced player think twice - i.e. At what point in a game does the
umpire call deuce?

Issue 6 - August 2003

UMPIRING - LEVEL 1 (LOCAL UMPIRE)
INTRODUCTION
An umpire must have a thorough knowledge of the rules governing
play and the ability to apply them promptly and correctly. Table
tennis rules consist of the Laws and the Regulations for International
Competitions. The laws apply to all matches but the regulations
apply only to certain competitions, such as open tournaments and
National County Championships. The following notes cover the laws,
basic match procedure and presentation, and give details of umpiring
qualifications.

PLAYING EQUIPMENT
The table may be made of any material which gives a bounce of
about 23cm to a ball dropped on to it from a height of 30cm, but it is
usually of wood.
It may be of any uniform dark colour, but it is normally green or blue.
For doubles, the centre line is regarded as part of the right half-court
and the end line is regarded as extending indefinitely in both
directions.
The playing surface includes the top edges of the table but not the
sides of the table top below the edges.
The ends of the net must be as close as possible to the net post and
the bottom must be as close as possible to the playing surface.
The net may be of any colour, but it is usually green or blue with a
white top.
Before a match its height and tension should be checked with a net
gauge.
The racket may be of any size, shape or weight.
Its blade must be flat, rigid and of even thickness and made mainly
of wood, but may include thin layers of other materials such as
carbon fibre.
A side of the blade used for striking the ball must be covered with
pimpled rubber up to 2mm thick or sandwich rubber up to 4mm thick;
the permitted thickness includes any adhesive layer.
A side of the blade not used for striking the ball may be left
uncovered or covered with any material.
The surface of one side of the blade must be bright red and the other
black, whether or not they are covered.
Before using a racket a player must allow the umpire and the
opponent(s) to examine it.

DEFINITIONS
The racket hand is the hand carrying the racket and the free hand is
the hand not carrying the racket.
If the racket is dropped, the hand that was holding it is no longer the
racket hand.
To strike the ball is to touch it with the racket, held in the racket
hand, or with the racket hand below the wrist.
The ball cannot be struck with the empty hand if the racket is
dropped, but it is legal to strike the ball with the hand while it is
holding the racket.
The server is the player due to strike the ball first in a rally and the
receiver is the player due to strike the ball second.
A rally is the period for which the ball is in play.
No point can be scored if the ball is not in play.
A rally whose result is not scored is a let; a rally whose result is
scored is a point.
The ball is in play from the last moment before it is intentionally
projected in service until the rally is decided as a point or a let; a
point can be scored only when the ball is in play.
It is not automatically out of play if it goes out of the playing area or
above the lights.
Over or around the net means anywhere other than between the net
and the net post or between the net and the playing surface. If the
ball, after bouncing on the correct court, spins back over the net it
may be struck directly down on to the playing surface.
A player obstructs the ball if he or she, or anything he or she wears
or carries, touches it when it is above or moving towards the playing
surface and has not passed beyond his or her end line or touched his
or her court since last being struck by the opposing player.
Anything that a player wears or carries includes anything that was
being worn or carried at the start of the rally.

SERVICE & RETURN

At the start of service the ball must rest freely on the palm of the
server. s free hand, which must be stationary, behind the server's end
line and above the level of the playing surface.
The ball must then be projected so that it rises, near vertically, at
least 16cm after leaving the server. s hand and must not be struck
until it is falling.
It must then touch the server's court, pass over or around the net and
touch the receiver's court; in doubles, it must touch the server's right
half-court and then the receiver's right half-court.
From the start of service until the ball is struck, it must not be
hidden from the receiver by the server or the server. s doubles
partner, or by anything they wear or carry; as soon as the ball has
been projected the server's free arm must be removed from the area
between his or her body and the net.
It is the responsibility of the player to serve so that the umpire can
see that the service is legal.
An umpire who suspects that a service is illegal but is not sure may
call 'let' and warn the player or pair once without awarding a point; if
later in the match a service by that player or by his or her doubles
partner is again doubtful, for any reason, a point must be awarded to
the receiver.
No warning may be given if a service is clearly illegal.
The service law may be relaxed for a player who cannot comply
owing to physical disability.
In a good return the ball must be struck so that it touches the
opponent's court, directly, or after touching the net assembly; if it
touches anything else, the return is not good.

LET & POINT

The rally is a let if in an otherwise good service the ball touches the
net assembly or is obstructed a player serves when the receiver is
not ready, provided no attempt is made to return the ball a player is
prevented from making a good service or a good return by something
outside his or her control it is interrupted by the umpire
The umpire may interrupt a rally to correct an error in the order of
serving, receiving or ends to introduce the expedite system
to warn a player for a service of doubtful legality because playing
conditions are disturbed in a way which may affect the outcome of
the rally
Unless the rally is a let, a player scores a point if the opposing player
fails to make a good service or a good return
obstructs the ball strikes the ball twice successively strikes the ball
with a side of the racket which is not covered with one of the
specified materials or anything that player wears or carries, moves
the table or touches the net touches the playing surface with the
free hand in doubles, strikes the ball out of proper sequence, except
in serving or receiving
Unless the rally is a let a player scores a point if the ball after he or
she has served or returned it, touches anything other than the net
assembly before being struck by the opposing player passes beyond
his or her end line without touching his or her court since last being
struck by the opposing player

GAME & MATCH

A game is won by the first player or pair to score 11 points or, if the
score is 10-10, by the first player or pair thereafter to gain a lead of 2
points.
A match consists of the best of any odd number of games, usually 5
or 7.
ORDER
The winner of the toss may choose to serve or to receive first, or to
start at a particular end.
When one player or pair has chosen to serve or receive first, or has
chosen an end, the opposing player or pair may make the other
choice. In doubles, the pair serving first in each game may choose
which of them will serve and, in the first game, the receiving pairmay
then choose which of them will receive. In subsequent games, when
the first server has been chosen, the first receiver must be the player
from whom he or she received in the previous game.
The player or pair serving first in a game always receive first in the
next game, whether or not expedite is in operation.
Players or pairs serve in turn for 2 points, unless both players or
pairs have scored 10 points or expedite is in operation, when they
serve in turn for 1 point until the end of the game.
In the last possible game of a doubles match, the receiving pair must
change their order of receiving when first a pair has scored 5 points.
Players or pairs change ends after each game and, in the last
possible game of a match, when first a player or pair has scored 5
points.
When an error is discovered in the order of serving, receiving or
ends, play is stopped and the error is corrected; any points scored
before the error is discovered remain unchanged.

EXPEDITE
Unless both players or pairs have scored at least 9 points, expedite
comes into operation after 10 minutes' play in a game or earlier at
the request of both players or pairs.
If expedite is introduced in a game, all subsequent games of the
match are played under expedite.
If the ball is in play when the time limit is reached, the next service
is made by the player who served in the rally that was interrupted; if
the ball is not in play when the time limit is reached, the next service
is made by the player who received in the previous rally.
If the receiving player or pair returns the service and the next 12
returns made by the serving player or pair, the receiver scores a
point.

DECISIONS
A point must always be scored for a breach of the laws, whether or
not the umpire believes that it was unintentional or that the player
gained no advantage.
There is no provision in table tennis for . playing a let. where the
umpire is uncertain what happened, and he or she must make a
decision based on the best available evidence. The more promptly
and confidently the decision is made, the less likely it is to be
questioned.
A decision that the umpire is certain is correct should not be
changed simply because a player questions it, especially if to do so
would benefit that player. If, however, both players or pairs think the
umpire was wrong and he or she is not quite sure, it is better not to
insist on maintaining the original decision. No change may be made
after another rally has begun.
For edge balls, the direction of the ball after its contact with the
table can help to decide whether it hit the top edge or the side of the
table top.

MATCH PROCEDURE
The umpire should be 2-3m from the side of the table, in line with the
net. If a raised chair is not provided it is better to stand for doubles,
but it should not be necessary to do so for singles.
At the start of a match, the name of the first server and, in doubles,
that of the first receiver, should be noted on the score card. If A/B are
playing X/Y in doubles, the only possible orders of serving are
A>X>B>Y>A>. . and A>Y>B>X>A> .
The score should be called as soon as possible after the ball goes
out of play. The number of points scored by the next server is called
first, then the number scored by the next receiver - eg . 5-4".
The score must not be called in a way which suggests partiality
towards one player or pair, but slight emphasis may be placed on the
number which has changed.
At the start of a game the first server should be named - eg . Smith to
serve, love-all. . At any subsequent change of service the umpire
should point to, but not name, the next server.
If the ball in service touches the net the umpire should raise an arm
or point to the net to show that he or she has noticed, but 'let', or the
new score, should not be called until it is seen whether the service is
otherwise good. If in doubt, it is always better to assume that the
ball touched.
If the conditions of play are disturbed, the umpire should call 'let'
immediately and not wait to see if the players have been affected. If
the disturbance occurs just as the ball is going out of play, the
umpire must decide whether or not it affected the outcome of the
rally.
When calling a let, the umpire should raise one arm in the air. After
calling a let, the umpire should repeat the previous score to make it
clear that no point has been awarded - eg . Let, 5- 4".
The umpire should not call:
'fault', unless a point has been awarded for a reason which is not
obvious or which does not automatically stop play
'change service' or 'change ends' unless players fail to do so when a
change is due
'deuce' at the score 10-10; this term does not exist in table tennis
If a point is awarded for a reason which is not obvious, or if a player
asks why it was awarded, the umpire should give a brief explanation.
When a service fault has been called it may be easiest to explain by
demonstration which requirement was not met.
When expedite is in operation, a stroke counter is appointed and he
or she should call out the number of each return stroke as the ball is
struck. If the receiving player or pair makes 13 good returns, the
umpire should call 'stop', if necessary, and award the point.

PRESENTATION
The umpire's first responsibility is to ensure a fair result to the
match, but he or she is responsible also for presenting it to
spectators in the best possible way.
The umpire should be dressed neatly and should look alert and
interested in the match at which he or she is officiating.
The playing area should be kept as clear as possible. Players should
not be allowed to hang towels over surrounds nor to bring bags and
track suits into the playing area.
Umpires also should not bring bulky bags or other items with them
into the playing area.
The progress of play should be controlled with authority but without
officiousness, so as to earn the confidence and respect of players
and spectators.
The best umpire is the one that is not noticed, because he or she
controls matches so efficiently and unobtrusively that players and
spectators can give their whole attention to the match.

QUALIFICATIONS
The Level 1, or Local Umpire (LU), qualification is primarily for those
who wish to umpire at club, league and county closed competitions.
Candidates first take a written test on the laws and scoring, which
they answer in their own time, using any reference books they
choose.
Those who pass the written test then undergo a short practical test
and, if successful, they receive an official certificate.
Level 2 is the County Umpire (CU) qualification, for which the written
test covers also the Regulations for International Competitions.
The CU practical test also is more demanding and candidates have
to umpire several matches while being watched by experienced
observers.
To qualify as a CU the candidate must pass both the LU and CU
written tests, but they can be taken together.
Those who are successful are registered by the National Umpires
and Referees Committee and issued with a lapel badge.
A CU may officiate at British League and National County
Championships matches and at all but the final rounds of open
tournaments.

Table Tennis Rules

 8 comments

25FEB
01. THE TABLE
1.1 The table shall be in surface rectangular, 274 cm. (9 ft.) in length, 152.5 cm. (5 ft.) in
width. It shall be supported so that its upper surface, termed the playing surface, shall lie in
a horizontal plane 76 cm. (2 ft. 6 in.) above the floor.
1.2 It shall be made of any material and shall yield a uniform bounce of about 23 cm. (8 3/4
in.) when a standard ball is dropped from a height of 30 cm. (12 in.) above the surface.
1.3 The playing surface shall be dark colored and matt, with a white line 2 cm. (3/4 inch)
wide along each edge.
1.3.1 The lines along the 152.5 cm. (5 ft.) edges or ends shall be termed end lines, and
they shall be regarded as extending indefinitely in both directions.
1.3.2 The lines along the 274 cm. (9 ft.) edges or sides shall be termed side lines.
1.4 For doubles, the playing surface shall be divided into halves by a white line 3 mm. (1/8
in.) wide, running parallel with the side lines, termed the center line. Permanent marking of
the center line shall not invalidate the table for singles play. The center line shall be
regarded as part of each right hand court.
1.5 The playing surface shall be considered to include the top edges of the table, but not
the sides of the table top below the edge.
BROWSE THE WORLD'S BEST TABLES

02. THE NET ASSEMBLY

2.1 The playing surface shall be divided into two "courts" of equal size by a vertical net
running parallel to the end lines.
2.2 The net assembly shall consist of the net, its suspension, and the supporting posts,
including the clamps attaching them to the table.
2.3 The net shall be suspended by a cord attached at each end to an upright post 15.25
cm. (6 in.) high, the outside limits of the post being 15.25 cm. outside the side lines.
2.4 The net, with its suspension, along its whole length, shall be 15.25 cm. (6 in.) above
the playing surface. The bottom of the net, along its whole length, shall be as close as
possible to the playing surface and the ends of the net shall be as close as possible to the
supporting posts.
BROWSE NETS AND NET ACCESSORIES

03. THE BALL

3.1 The ball shall be spherical, with a diameter of 40 mm. The ball shall weigh 2.7 gm.
3.2 The ball shall be made of celluloid or similar plastic material and shall be white or
orange and matte.
BROWSE PERFORMANCE TABLE TENNIS BALLS

04. The RACKET

4.1 The racquet may be of any size, shape, or weight but the blade shall be flat and rigid.
4.2 At least 85% of the blade by thickness shall be of natural wood. An adhesive layer
within the blade may be reinforced with fibrous material such as carbon fiber, glass fiber, or
compressed paper but shall not be thicker than 7.5% of the total thickness or 0.35 mm,
whichever is the smaller.
4.3 A side of the blade used for striking the ball shall be covered with either ordinary
pimpled rubber with pimples outward having a total thickness including adhesive of not
more than 2 mm. or sandwich rubber with pimples inwards or outward having a total
thickness including adhesive of not more than 4 mm.
4.3.1 Ordinary pimpled rubber is a single layer of non-cellular rubber, natural or synthetic,
with pimples evenly distributed over its surface at a density of not less than 10 per sq. cm.
and not more than 50 per sq. cm.
4.3.2 Sandwich rubber is a single layer of cellular rubber covered with a single outer layer
of ordinary pimpled rubber, the thickness of the pimpled rubber not being more than 2 mm.
4.4 The covering material shall extend up to but not beyond the limits of the blade, except
that the part nearest the handle and gripped by the fingers may be left uncovered or
covered with any material and may be considered part of the handle.
4.5 The blade, any layer within the blade, and any layer of covering material or adhesive
shall be continuous and of even thickness.
4.6 The surface of the covering material on a side of a blade or of a side of the blade if it is
left uncovered, shall be matt, bright red on one side and black on the other.
4.7 Slight deviations from uniformity of color or continuity of covering due to fading, wear,
or accidental damage may be ignored provided they do not significantly change the
characteristics of the surface.
4.8 At the start of a match and if he changes his racquet during a match, a player shall
show his opponent and the umpire the racquet he is about to use and shall allow them to
examine it.
4.9 If a player breaks his racquet during a game, he shall replace it immediately with
another racquet which he has brought with him to the playing area or one which is handed
to him in the playing area. A racket shall not be changed in an individual match unless it is
accidentally damaged so badly that it cannot be used. If a player changes a racket during
an individual match without notification, the umpire shall suspend play and report to the
referee.
4.10 The covering material on a side of the blade used for striking the ball shall be of a
brand and type currently approved by the USATT and shall be attached to the blade so that
the trademark and ITTF logo (if applicable) are clearly visible near the edge of the striking
surface.
4.11 If a player strikes the ball in play with a side of the blade whose surface does not
comply with the requirements of the Rules, his opponent will be awarded a point.
BROWSE PREMIUM RACKETS FOR ALL LEVELS OF PLAY

05.DEFINITIONS
5.1 A rally is the period during which the ball is in play.
5.2 The ball is in play from the last moment at which it is stationary on the palm of the free
hand before being intentionally projected in service until it touches anything other than the
playing surface, the net assembly, the racquet held in the racquet hand or the racquet hand
below the wrist, or until the rally is otherwise decided a let or a point.
5.3 A let is a rally of which the result is not scored.
5.4 A point is a rally of which the result is scored.
5.5 The racquet hand is the hand carrying the racquet.
5.6 The free hand is the hand not carrying the racquet.
5.7 A player strikes the ball if he touches it in play with his racquet, held in the racquet
hand, or with his racquet hand below the wrist.
5.8 A player obstructs the ball if he or anything he wears or carries, touches it in play when
it is traveling toward the playing surface and has not passed beyond the end line, not having
touched his court since last being struck by his opponent.
5.9 The server is the player due to strike the ball first in a rally.
5.10 The receiver is the player due to strike the ball second in a rally.
5.11 The umpire is the person appointed to decide the results of each rally.
5.12 The assistant umpire is the person appointed to assist the umpire. The stroke counter
is the person appointed to count strokes under the expedite system.
5.13 Anything that a player wears or carries includes anything that he was wearing or
carrying at the start of the rally.
5.14 The ball shall be regarded as passing over or around the net assembly if it passes
under or outside the projection of the net assembly outside the table.

06. SERVICE
6.1 Service shall start with the ball resting freely on the open palm of the server's stationary
free hand.
6.2 The server shall then project the ball near vertically upwards, without imparting spin, so
that it rises as least 16 cm after leaving the palm of the free hand and then falls without
touching anything before being struck.
6.3 As the ball is falling, the server shall strike it so that it touches first his court and then,
passing directly over or around the net assembly touches the receiver's court. In doubles
the ball shall touch successively the right half court of the server and receiver.
6.4 From the start of service until it is struck, the ball shall be above the level of the playing
surface and behind the server's end line, and it shall not be hidden from the receiver by any
part of the body or clothing of the server or his doubles partner.
6.5 It is the responsibility of the player to serve so that the umpire or the assistant umpire
can see that he complies with the requirements for a good service.
6.5.1 If there is no Assistant Umpire, and the umpire is doubtful of the legality of a service
he may, on the first occasion in a match, warn the server without awarding a point.
6.5.2 If subsequently in the match a service by that player or his doubles partner is of
dubious legality, for same reason or for any other reason, the receiver shall score a point.
6.5.3 Whenever there is a clear failure to comply with the requirements for a good service,
no warning shall be given and the receiver shall score a point.
6.5.4 Exceptionally, the umpire may relax the requirements for a good service where he is
satisfied that compliance is prevented by physical disability.
6.6 If, in attempting to serve, a player fails to strike the ball while it is in play, his opponent
will be awarded a point.
07. A GOOD RETURN
7.1 The ball, having been served or returned in play, shall be struck so that it passes
directly over or around the net assembly and touches the opponent's court, either directly or
after touching the net assembly.
7.1.1 If the ball, having been served or returned in play, returns with its own impetus over
the net, it may be struck so that it touches directly the opponent's court.

08. THE ORDER OF PLAY

8.1 In singles, the server shall first make a good service, the receiver shall then make a
good return, and thereafter, server and receiver alternately shall each make a good return.
8.2 In doubles, the server shall first make a good service, the receiver shall then make a
good return, the partner of the server shall then make a good return, the partner of the
receiver shall then make a good return, and thereafter, each player alternately in that
sequence shall make a good return.

09. A LET
A rally is a let:
9.1 If in service the ball, in passing over or around the net assembly, touches it, provided
the serve is otherwise good or is obstructed by the receiver or his partner.
9.2 If the service is delivered when the receiving player or pair is not ready, provided that
neither the receiver nor his partner attempts to strike the ball.
9.3 If, the failure to make a good service or a good return or otherwise to comply with the
Laws is due to a disturbance outside the control of the player.
9.4 If play is interrupted by the umpire or assistant umpire.
9.4.1 To correct an error in the order of serving or receiving or ends.
9.4.2 To introduce the expedite system.
9.4.3 To warn or penalize a player.
9.4.4 Because the conditions of play are disturbed in a way which could affect the
outcome of the rally.

10. A POINT
Unless the rally is a let, a player shall score the point:
10.1 If his opponent fails to make a good service.
10.2 If his opponent fails to make a good return.
10.3 If, after he has made a good service or a good return, the ball touches anything other
than the net assembly before being struck by his opponent.
10.4 If the ball passes beyond his end line without touching his court, after being struck by
his opponent.
10.5 If his opponent obstructs the ball, except as provided in Rule 9.1.
10.6 If his opponent strikes the ball twice successively.
10.7 If his opponent strikes the ball with a side of the racquet blade having an illegal
surface.
10.8 If his opponent, or anything he wears or carries, moves the playing surface.
10.9 If his opponent, or anything he wears or carries, touches the net assembly.
10.10 If his opponent's free hand touches the playing surface.
10.11 If, in doubles, his opponent strikes the ball out of sequence established by the first
server and first receiver.
10.12 As provided under the expedite system.
10.13 If the umpire assesses a penalty point against his opponent.

11. A GAME
11.1 A game shall be won by the player or pair first scoring 11 points unless both players
or pairs score 10 points, when the game shall be won by the first player or pair
subsequently gaining a lead of 2 points.

12. A MATCH
12.1 A match shall consist of the best of any odd number of games.
12.2 Play shall be continuous throughout, except for authorized intervals.

13.INTERVALS
Play shall be continuous throughout a match except that any player is entitled to:
13.1 An interval of up to 1 minute between successive games of a match.
13.2 Brief intervals for toweling after every 6 points from the start of each game and at the
change of ends in the last possible game of a match.
13.3 A player or pair may claim one time-out period of up to 1 minute during a match.
13.3.1 In an individual event the request may be made by the player or pair or by the
designated advisor. In a team event it may be made by the player or pair or by the team
captain.
13.3.2 The request for a time-out, which shall be made only when the ball is out of play,
shall be made by making a "T" sign with the hands.
13.3.3 On receiving a valid request for a time-out the umpire shall suspend play. Play will
be resumed when the player or pair who called it is ready to continue or at the end of one
minute, whichever is sooner.
13.4 The referee may allow a suspension of play of the shortest practical duration, and in
no circumstances more than 10 minutes, if a player is temporarily incapacitated by an
accident, provided that in the opinion of the referee the suspension is not likely to be unduly
disadvantageous to the opposing player or pair.
13.5 A suspension shall not be allowed for a disability which was present or was
reasonably to be expected at the beginning of the match, or where it is due to the normal
stress of play. Disability such as cramp or exhaustion, caused by the player's current state
of fitness or by the manner in which play has proceeded, does not justify such an
emergency suspension, which may be allowed only for incapacity resulting from an
accident, such as injury caused by a fall.
13.6 If anyone in the playing area is bleeding, play shall be suspended immediately and
shall not resume until that person has received medical treatment and all traces of blood
have been removed from the playing area.
13.7 Players shall remain in or near the playing area throughout a match except with the
permission of the referee. During intervals between games they shall remain within 3
meters of the playing area under the supervision of the umpire.

14. THE CHOICE OF ENDS AND SERVES

14.1 The choice of ends and the right to serve or receive first in a match shall be decided
by lot and the winner may choose to serve or receive first or to start at a particular end.
14.2 When one player or pair has chosen to serve or receive first or to start at a particular
end, the other player or pair shall have the other choice.
14.3 After each 2 points have been scored the receiving player or pair shall become the
serving player or pair and so on until the end of the game, unless both players or pairs
score 10 points or the expedite system is in operation, when the sequence of serving and
receiving shall be the same but each player shall serve for only 1 point in turn.
14.4 In the first game of a match the pair who has the right to serve first shall decide which
of them shall do so and in the first game of a match, the opposing pair shall then decide
which partner will receive first. In subsequent games of a match, the first server having
been chosen, the first receiver shall be the player who served to him in the preceding game.
14.5 In doubles, at each change of service the previous receiver shall become the server
and the partner of the previous server shall become the receiver.
14.6 The player or pair serving first in a game shall receive first in the next game of the
match, and in the last possible game of a doubles match the pair due to receive next shall
change their order of receiving when first one pair scores 5 points.
14.7 The player or pair starting at one end in a game shall start at the other end in the next
game of the match and in the last possible game of a match the players or pairs shall
change ends when first one player or pair scores.

15. THE EXPEDITE SYSTEM

15.1 Except where both players or pairs have scored at least 9 points, the expedite system
shall come into operation if a game is unfinished after 10 minutes play or at any earlier time
at the request of both players or pairs.
15.1.1 If the ball is in play when the game is interrupted, play shall restart with service by
the player who served in the rally that was interrupted.
15.1.2 If the ball was not in play when the game was interrupted, play shall restart with
service by the player who received service in the immediately preceding rally.
15.2 Thereafter, each player shall serve 1 point in turn. If the receiving player or pair
makes thirteen successive good returns, the receiver shall score a point.
15.3 If the expedite system is introduced, or if a game lasts longer than 10 minutes, all
subsequent games of the match shall be played under the expedite system.
16. EQUIPMENT
16.1 Players shall not choose balls in the playing area.
16.1.1 Whenever possible players shall be given the opportunity to choose one or more
balls before coming to the playing area. The match shall be played with one of these balls,
taken at random by the umpire.
16.1.2 If a ball has not been chosen before players come to the playing area, the match
shall be played with a ball taken at random by the umpire from a box of those specified for
the competition.
16.1.3 If a ball has to be replaced during a match, the replacement shall be provided
according to the procedures of Rules 17.1.1 and 17.1.2.
16.2 Unless otherwise authorized by the umpire, players shall leave their racquets on the
table during intervals.

17. PRACTICE
17.1 Players are entitled to practice on the match table for up to 2 minutes immediately
before the start of a match but not during normal intervals. The specified practice period
may be extended only with the permission of the referee.
17.2 During an emergency suspension of play, the referee may allow players to practice
on any table, including the match table.
17.3 Players shall be given reasonable opportunity to check and familiarize themselves
with any equipment, which they are to use. However, this shall not automatically entitle
them to more than a few practice rallies before resuming play after the replacement of a
damaged ball or racquet.

18.DISCIPLINE (ADVICE)
18.1 Advice.
18.1.1 In a team event, players may receive advice from anyone.
18.1.2 In an individual event, a player or pair may receive advice only from one person,
designated beforehand to the umpire. If the players of a doubles pair are from different
associations, each may designate an adviser. If an unauthorized person gives advice, the
umpire shall hold up a red card and send him away from the playing area.
18.1.3 Players may receive advice only during the intervals between games, during a
time-out or during other authorized suspension of play. If any authorized person gives
advice at other times, the umpire shall hold up a yellow card to warn him that any further
such offense will result in his dismissal from the playing area.
18.1.4 After a warning has been given, if in the same team match or the same match of
an individual event anyone again gives advice illegally, the umpire shall hold up a red card
and send him away from the playing area, whether or not he was the person warned.
18.1.5 In a team match, the dismissed adviser shall not be allowed to return, except when
required to play, until the team match has ended. In an individual event, he shall not be
allowed to return until the individual match has ended.
18.1.6 If the dismissed adviser refuses to leave or returns before the end of the match, the
umpire shall suspend play and report to the referee.
18.1.7 These regulations shall apply only to advice on play and shall not prevent a player
or captain, as appropriate, from making a legitimate appeal nor hinder a consultation with
an interpreter or association representative on the explanation of a juridical decision.
18.2 Misbehavior.
18.2.1 Players and coaches shall refrain from conduct that may unfairly affect an
opponent, offend spectators or bring the game into disrepute. Examples are: abusive
language, deliberately breaking the ball or hitting it out of the playing area, kicking the table
or surrounds or disrespect to match officials.
18.2.2 If at any time a player or coach commits a serious offence the umpire shall
suspend play and report immediately to the referee. For less serious offences the umpire
may, on the first occasion, hold up a yellow card and warn the offender that any further
offence is liable to incur penalties.
18.2.3 If a player who has been warned commits a second offence in the same individual
or team match, the umpire shall award one point to the player's opponent and after a further
offence he shall award two points to his opponent, each time holding up a yellow and a red
card together.
18.2.4 If a player against whom 3 penalty points have been awarded in the same
individual or team match continues to misbehave the umpire shall suspend play and report
immediately to the referee.
19.2.5 A warning or penalty incurred by either player of a doubles pair shall apply to the
pair, but not to the non-offending player in a subsequent individual match of the same team
match. At the start of a doubles match the pair shall be regarded as having incurred the
higher of any warnings or penalties incurred by either player in the same team match.
18.2.6 If a coach who has been warned commits a further offence in the same individual
or team match the umpire shall hold up a red card and send him away from the playing area
until the end of the team match, or in an individual event, the end of the individual match.
18.2.7 The referee shall have power to disqualify a player from a match, an event, or a
competition for seriously unfair or offensive behavior whether reported by the umpire or not.
As he does so he shall hold up a red card.
18.2.8 A player who is disqualified from 2 individual matches of a team or individual event
shall automatically be disqualified from that team event or individual competition.
18.2.9 The referee may disqualify for the remainder of a competition anyone who has
twice been sent away from the playing area during that competition.
18.2.10 Cases of serious misbehavior shall be reported by the referee to the USATT
disciplinary committee.
19. CLOTHING (DRESS CODE)
19.1 Playing clothing shall normally consist of a short-sleeved shirt and shorts or skirt,
socks, and playing shoes; other garments, such as part or all of a track suit, shall not be
worn during play except with the permission of the referee.
19.2 Clothing may be of any color or colors except that:
19.2.1 The main color of a shirt, skirts, or shorts, other than sleeves or collar of a shirt and
trimming along side seams or near the edges, shall be clearly different from that of the ball
in use.
19.3 A playing garment may carry:
19.3.1 The maker's normal trademark, symbol, or name contained within a total area of 24
sq. cm.
19.3.2 Not more than 3 clearly-separated advertisements contained within a combined
total area of 200 sq. cm. on the front or side of a shirt and one advertisement, contained
within a total area of 200 sq. cm. on the back of a shirt.
19.3.3 Not more than two advertisements contained within a combined total area of 80 sq.
cm. on shorts or a skirt.
19.4 Any markings or trimming on the front or side of a playing garment and any objects
such as jewelry worn by a player shall not be so conspicuous or brightly reflecting as to
unsight an opponent.
19.5 Players must wear socks and soft-soled shoes.
19.6 Clothing shall not carry designs or lettering which might cause offense or bring the
game into disrepute. Absolutely no playing without a shirt, no cutoffs, no jeans, and no tank
shirts. Women may wear sleeveless blouses.
19.7 Opposing players and pairs shall wear clothing that is sufficiently different to enable
them to be easily distinguished by spectators. If the players or pairs cannot agree on who
will change if necessary, the umpire will decide by toss.
19.8 Any question of the legality or acceptability of playing clothing shall be decided by the
referee.
19.9 Warm-up suits should not be worn during play unless with special permission of the
referee. It is his discretion of conformity to the above requirements.
20. DISABLED COMPETITIONS
20.1 Disabled table tennis players are divided into ten divisions or classes using a
functional classification system.
20.2 Classes one to five compete in wheelchairs and classes six to ten play standing.
20.3 Separate events may be held for each class and sex or various combinations may be
used.
20.4 For more information on classification of disabled athletes, contact the USATT
Disabled Players Committee.
20.5 Standing disabled players follow all standard rules; there are a few modifications for
wheelchair play.

Wheelchair Rules
20.6 The table shall allow access to wheelchairs without obstructing player's legs and shall
allow access to two wheelchairs for doubles matches (no cross bars between end legs).
20.7 The court length may be reduced, but should not be less than 8 meters long and must
be enclosed by surrounds.
20.8 A service in singles shall be as in Paragraph 6 except that a let shall be called if in
service the ball:
20.8.1 Leaves the table by either of the receiver's side lines (on one or more bounces) or
20.8.2 On bouncing on the receiver's side returns in the direction of the net or
20.8.3 Comes to rest on the receiver's side of the playing surface.
20.9 However, if the receiver strikes the ball before it crosses a side line or takes a second
bounce on his side of the playing surface, the service shall be considered good and no let
shall be called.
20.10 Class 1 and 2 players are not required to project the ball upward from the palm of
the free hand. Players in these classes may hold the ball and project it upward in any
manner. Regardless of the method, no spin may be imparted to the ball and the ball still
must rise at least 6 inches from the hand.
20.11 Responsibility still rests with the server to serve so that the umpire or assistant
umpire can check the legality of the serve.
20.12 During play, a player may touch the playing surface with the free hand, only to
restore balance after striking the ball (provided the playing surface is not moved).
20.13 The playing surface shall not be used as a support with the free hand while playing
the ball.
20.14 A player or pair shall score a point if the footrest or a foot of their opponent touch
the floor during play.
20.15 In team and class singles events, no part of the body above the knees may be
attached to the chair, as this could improve balance. Below knees, strapping is allowed.
20.16 Should a player require some strapping or binding for medical reasons, this should
be noted on their classification card and will be taken into account when assessing the
player's class.
20.17 In open events, strapping and other aids are allowed.
20.18 No player shall compete in a wheelchair event unless he has been given an
appropriate disabled classification.

Wheelchair Doubles
20.19 Service shall be as above for singles play, but the ball may leave the table by the
side line of the receiver's right half-court.
20.20 The server shall first make a good service and the receiver shall make a good
return, and thereafter either player of a pair may return the ball.
20.21 During play, no part of a player's wheelchair shall cross the vertical plane of an
imaginary extension of the table's center line. If it does, the opposing pair shall score a
point.
21. PLAYING CONDITIONS
21.1 Space. The normal playing space for each table should be 14 m. (46 ft.) long, 7 m.
(23 ft.) wide and 5 m. (16 ft.) high.
21.2 For further information on Playing Conditions, please refer to the USATT Tournament
Guide.
22. MATCH OFFICIALS
22.1 For every competition as a whole as referee shall be appointed. The referee shall be
responsible for:
22.1.1 Interpretation of laws and regulations for competition.
22.1.2 Assignment and, if necessary, replacement of match officials.
22.2 An umpire shall be appointed for each match or at the request of any player or pair in
that match. Where practical an assistant umpire will also be appointed.
22.2.1 The umpire shall sit or stand in line with the net and the assistant umpire shall sit
directly facing him, at the other side of the table.
22.2.2 The umpire shall be responsible for:
22.2.2.1 Checking the acceptability of equipment and playing conditions and reporting
any deficiency to the referee.
22.2.2.2 Taking a ball at random in accordance with the rules.
22.2.2.3 Conducting the draw for choice of serving, receiving and ends.
22.2.2.4 Controlling the order of serving, receiving and ends and correcting any errors
therein.
22.2.2.5 Deciding each rally as a point or a let.
22.2.2.6 Calling the score in accordance with specified procedure.
22.2.2.7 Introducing the expedite system at the appropriate time.
22.2.2.8 Maintaining the continuity of play.
22.2.2.9 Taking action for breaches of the advice or behavior regulations.
22.3 The assistant umpire shall decide whether the ball in play touches the edge of the
playing surface at the side of the table top nearest to him.
22.4 Either the umpire or the assistant umpire may decide:
22.4.1 That a player's service action is illegal.
22.4.2 That, in an otherwise good service, the ball touches the net assembly while
passing over or around it.
22.4.3 That a player obstructs the ball.
22.4.4 That the conditions of play are disturbed in a way that may affect the outcome of
the rally.
22.4.5 Time the duration of the practice period, of play, and of any intervals.
22.5 Either the assistant umpire or a separate official may act as stroke counter to count
the strokes of the receiving player or pair when the expedite system is in operation.
22.6 The umpire may not overrule the assistant umpire or stroke counter on a decision of
fact made within their area of responsibility.
23. DOPING
23.1 There shall be no doping before or during play in any competition. For the purpose of
these regulations, doping is the introduction into the body in any way of any of a list of
prohibited substances as provided by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and/or the
United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). A player who fails a doping test shall be
subject to disciplinary action per the USATT Bylaws and Standing Rules. It is the athlete's
responsibility to remain informed of lists of banned substances through the USADA Drug
Reference Line. As of this printing, the Drug Reference Line is 800-233-0393.