18/02/2026
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Greetings Levin Table Tennis Club supporters.
Recently, there has been some confusion and concern expressed around how players in self-umpired TT games (ie. regular club play) should handle disputed calls. The following general guidelines from the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) will help resolve disputed calls in a fair and low temperature manner.
Let's try and remember we are a social TT club with a range of skill levels, and experience. We're not playing for Gold in the Olympic finals!
Our club "style" is how we show ourselves to other clubs during interclub games in particular. Play hard but play fair.
In table tennis, the "honour system" is the primary method for resolving disputes, particularly in casual clubs games.
This system relies on honesty and mutual respect, upholding a tradition of fair play.
Here is how to handle disputes under the honour system:
1. The Core Principle: "Find a Way to Agree"
Players are expected to discuss matters and reach a consensus.
2. Disputed Calls (Edge/Net/Let)
• Edge Balls: A ball that hits the top horizontal edge of the table is good, but a ball that hits the vertical side is out. If you are uncertain if it hit the top, default to the opponent's view or consider it "in" if it was close.
• Net Serve: If a served ball hits the net and lands in the proper service court, it is a "let" and the point is replayed.
• Disputed Score: If there is a disagreement on the score, try to retrace the points played in that game to agree on the correct score.
3. Resolving Deadlocks (The "Replay" Rule)
If players absolutely cannot agree on a call, the standard procedure is to replay the point.
4. Special Conventions for Unumpired Matches
• The "Side" Rule: If a dispute occurs, a common, widely accepted convention is that the call is made by the receiver.
• Self-Correction: If you realise a point was incorrectly awarded to you, you should speak up and give the point to your opponent.
5. Common Etiquette
• Lucky Points: If you win a point due to a "net cord" (ball hits top of net) or "edge ball" that is unreturnable, it is customary to raise your index finger as an apology.
• Illegal Serves: If your opponent is serving illegally (e.g., hiding the ball, not tossing it high enough), you should mention it, as it is a common point of contention.
If in doubt "don't be a dick" and play the point again 😄🏓
