I welcome you all to the new season, whether you are an associate player or a league player, with a special welcome to any new players and hope that you all have a most enjoyable year to come. Hopefully the pandemic has run its course and we will return to normality.

Sadly during this last year one of our long standing players and committee members, Dave Backholer, passed away after a short illness. Dave will be sadly missed by all his friends, teammates and everyone on the Club’s Committee as his vast knowledge and experience proved invaluable on many occasions.

This was our first full year back after Covid and I must pass on thanks to all on the Executive Committee without whom the club could not function. Special thanks go to Russ Keith for his untiring efforts in organising and running the League including the introduction of the Handicap League which by all accounts was a popular and enjoyable experience and to Tony Powlesland who continues with the task of HQ Secretary with all the problems that that entails. Also thanks to Russ and Tony for preparing HQ to a safe standard for play after the pandemic and thanks to them and Trevor Mole for running the weekly practice sessions.

Congratulations to all of you that won awards during the last season both in the League and Cup. I would like to thank Paul Whiting for organising our teams in the English Leagues’ Cup, and to congratulate those teams on their magnificent performance. 

I would also like to thank Bryn Ford of Shopfitting by SWS for his generosity in continuing to sponsor our Club.

The number of Teams entered into the League is similar to last year but hopefully with Covid slowly fading away more players will feel they can return to playing

Many thanks to all members of the Club as without you we would cease to exist and finally I must wish good luck and best wishes to all of you for the coming season.

Pete Nicholson

Chairman/Treasurer

OFFICERS 2022/2023

President: L Harrison

Vice Presidents: I Lindsay / L Cole

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Chairman: P Nicholson

Vice Chairman: T Powlesland

General Secretary: R Batten

3 Bedford Court, Tavistock PL19 8BA Tel: 07834386933

Hon Treasurer: P Nicholson

24 Woodland Way, Torpoint, Cornwall PL11 2DW Tel: 01752813757

Hon Match Secretary: R Keith

162 Hemerdon Heights, Plympton, Plymouth PL7 2TY Tel: 07738273476

Assistant Match Secretary: Vacant

Minute Secretary: L Cole

5 Lake Road, Hooe, Plymstock, Plymouth PL9 9RA Tel: 07961651511

Assistant Treasurer: J Walaszkowski

3 Morley View Road, Plympton, Plymouth PL7 4JY Tel: 01752216930

Headquarters Secretary: T Powlesland

14 Greenfinch Crescent, Saltash, Cornwall PL12 6WH Tel: 01752849434

Safeguarding Officer: B Ford

237 Eggbuckland Road, Plymouth PL3 6QD Tel: 01752768202

Coaching Officer: T Powlesland

14 Greenfinch Crescent, Saltash, Cornwall PL12 6WH Tel: 01752849434

Development Officer: T Manonge

Moe Cottage, Polhilsa Farm, Callington, PL17 8PP Tel: 07495641606

Table Allocation Secretary: R Keith

162 Hemerdon Heights, Plympton, Plymouth PL7 2TY Tel: 07738273476

Data and Covid Protection Officer: P Nicholson

24 Woodland Way, Torpoint, Cornwall PL11 2DW Tel: 01752813757

Executive Committee:

Mrs D Whiting, Ms L Bone, J Kodicek, A Spencer, C Dyson, T Mole, M Hynes

Assistant General Secretary: Vacant

Assistant Treasurer: Vacant

Inter Town Secretary: Vacant

NON EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

­­­­

Life Vice Presidents

Mrs N Hollywood,I Lindsay,

L Harrison, T Morrish, L Cole, P Whiting

Life Members

A Wright, R Avent, K Massey, M Short, Mrs E Short, 

Mrs D Whiting, P Nicholson, A Powlesland, R Keith

OTHER OFFICIALS

Independent Financial Examiner: Mrs J Morgan

IMPORTANT NOTICE

SECRETARIES AND PLAYERS ARE TO PAY ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING RULES

12. POSTPONEMENT

(a)  A home team desiring to postpone a match shall be within their rights to do so providing that their opponents receive a clear 2 days notice. At least 3 alternative dates excluding Saturdays and Sundays, except by mutual agreement, must be offered. A visiting team wishing to postpone a match may do so only if the home team agrees: if they do so agree then the home team must offer one alternative date to their opponents. In both cases the team responsible for postponing the match must advise the Match Secretary of the postponement within 24 hours of the original fixture date and the revised date when it is fixed. (Notification is not required when the alteration means that the match will be played earlier than the original fixture). 

(b)  All league matches must be played within the block of fixtures to which they were originally scheduled to be played i.e first half or second half of the season.

(c)  Failure to comply with these rules will cause the defaulting team to lose the fixture, points being awarded in accordance with Rule 18(b). 

19. PRACTICE AT HEADQUARTERS

(c)  A player wishing to practice at headquarters must be (or become) a registered member of the League or have prior permission of the Executive Committee. For all non-organised practice (i.e. not under the control of a steward) players’ names MUST be entered in the attendance registers before play commences. The appropriate fee must be forwarded to the treasurer within one month. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action being taken by the Executive Committee, which could incur suspension.

NOTE: The present practice fee is £3 per session.

All players and visitors to Headquarters are to be fully conversant with the Fire Safety Procedures: these are to be found on the main notice board and beside each fire warning bell.

POINTS TO NOTE

1. CORRESPONDENCE.

All matters relating to match play including Knock-Out Cup Matches, Registration, Transfers, Appeals, League Tables, etc should be addressed to the Match Secretary. 

Relating to financial matters the Treasurer. 

Relating to County Matches, Plymouth Closed Championships, J.M. Rose Bowl, Cup Matches, Open Tournaments and all general matters to the General Secretary.

2. CHANGE OF ADDRESS.

Any change of address of Team Secretaries should be notified immediately to the Match Secretary

3. PRESS ITEMS.

Match Results, League Tables and general notes will appear in the Herald each week (upon publication).

4. CHECK ON PLAYING RECORDS.

Team Secretaries should check their own records against published League Tables allowing for the fact that these are made up on Saturdays previous to publication. If any apparent inaccuracy is detected the publication of the next league table should be awaited: if the error then persists, the Match Secretary should be notified.

5. RESULT CARDS. 

Sufficient cards are issued to each club to cover the season’s matches they should not be used for making copies to be retained in club records.

6. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS.

These are held once a month. Executive members will be notified of any additional meetings.

7. GOVERNING BODY (LEAGUE) MEETINGS.

The Governing Body shall meet at League Headquarters at 7:30 pm on dates listed in the Fixture Table.

8. FIXTURE LIST.

A Fixture List will be available at the first League (Governing Body) meeting of the season for each separate Division.

9. LEAGUE RULES AND REGULATIONS.

These should be scrutinised carefully as revisions are made each season.

10. DRESS.

Players are requested to conform to Table Tennis England regulation standard of dress in all matches. In the Plymouth Closed Championships such standards are obligatory.

11. CLOSING DATE.

The closing date for Competition entries to the Women’s Team Knock Out Cup, Roborough Trophy, Cyril Evans Memorial Cup and M.M. Woolland Cup is 1st October yearly.

12. TEAM APPLICATION.

To the Match Secretary by 1st June yearly. Application forms will be automatically forwarded to all previous playing clubs/teams. The team deposit of £15 must accompany all applications.

13. MATCH RESULT CARDS.

Match result cards for ALL DIVISIONS INCLUDING ALL CUP MATCHES must be sent to the Match Secretary (Address in List of Officers).

14. TTE APPLICATION FORM.

These should be completed and must be returned to the league and not forwarded to the TTE. No payment should be paid to the TTE unless dealt with by a Premier Club.

CONSTITUTION

1. NAME. 

The name of the club shall be the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club (PDTTC). It shall be affiliated to the English and Devon County Table Tennis Associations. Its membership will be the amalgamation of clubs that play in the League Championships and members including those who participate on a recreational basis.

2. OBJECTS. 

The objects of the Club shall be:-

(a) To lay down and secure the adoption of uniform rules and regulations in The Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club activities (including the League Championship and competitions) and to act as its controlling authority.

(b) To promote the sport of Table Tennis as a physical recreation for the benefit of members of the community of Plymouth and District, to enhance health, social development, fitness, skill and excellence through the organisation of competitive and non-competitive activities.

3. ORGANISATION.

(a) The Club shall be controlled by a Governing Body consisting of the secretaries of each club and whose officers shall be: President, Vice Presidents, Chairperson, General Secretary, Match Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Secretary, Assistant Match Secretary, Coaching Officer, Inter-Town Secretary, Schools Secretary, Minute Secretary, Assistant Treasurer, Development Officer, Handbook Secretary, Headquarters Secretary and Safeguarding Officer.

(b) An Executive Committee shall be appointed consisting of the aforementioned officers, three members who shall be elected at AGM, plus one member from each club that has four or more teams. However, this shall be optional should a member of the club be already on the Committee as an officer. The Committee may delegate any of their functions to sub-committees but must specify the scope of their activities and powers.

4. DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. 

It shall be the duty of the Committee to:

(a) Management of the club and its assets.

(b) Arrange all annual championships and competitions.

(c) Arrange and select teams for representative matches.

(d) Deal with all protests, claims and representations.

(e) Act in liaison with the Table Tennis England and the Devon County Table Tennis Association.

(f) Carry out all emergency matters of concern to the Club

(g) Have due regard to the law on discrimination and child protection and equal opportunities.

5. MEMBERSHIP.

(a) Membership is open to anyone within Plymouth and district interested in table tennis on application regardless of sex, age, disability, ethnicity, nationality sexual orientation, religion and other beliefs. However, limitation of membership according to available facilities is allowed on a non-discriminatory basis.

(b) Registration of membership is governed by the Executive Committee.

(c) The Club may have different classes of membership and subscription on a non - discriminatory and fair basis. The Club will keep subscriptions at levels that will not impose a significant obstacle to participating.

(d) The Executive Committee may refuse or remove membership only for good cause such as conduct or character likely to bring the Club or sport into disrepute. Appeal against refusal or removal may be made to the Governing Body.

(e) No-one shall be paid by the Club simply to play.

(f) In order to increase participation in table tennis and to comply with our Development plan, there may be occasions when it will be inappropriate to have to become a member e.g. when hiring the hall to associations such as Plymouth Guild for table tennis taster session, or inviting junior schools to the HQ as part of player development and/or for coaching sessions. This should be subject to Executive Committee discretion.

6. CLASSIFICATION OF MEMBERSHIP.

(a) A standard fee will be charged to all Members of the Club whether they are League Members or Associate Membership. Junior players (less than 18 years of age) will pay a reduced fee.

(b)  League membership will be open to all members who wish to play in the Plymouth & District Table Tennis League. Associate membership is open to all those wishing to play table tennis on a recreational basis only. An Associate member can change to a League member at any time with no extra fee being charged by the Club although they will have to pay the appropriate Table Tennis England Player Registration Fee.

(c) Temporary league membership is open to all players who do not wish to play for a team on a full time basis (this is for 5 matches only). Transfer to a full membership with the appropriate fee increase will be automatic if a 6th match is played or if the player wishes to play in recreational sessions. 

(d) Free membership will be given to non-players who engage in activities such as officers and coaches.

(e) All fees for membership will be agreed at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) or a Special General Meeting of the Club.

7. CLUB MEETINGS.

(a) The Governing Body shall meet on dates specified by the Executive Committee the details of which shall be communicated directly to Club Secretaries and subsequently published on the website. Meetings will commence at 7:30 pm.

(b) No matches which prevent the attendance of a team secretary or representative shall be arranged on these evenings.

(c) Only one representative of each team shall be permitted to attend monthly meetings.

Clubs having more than one team may have the option of being represented by one club member, provided this single representative shall be conversant with the affairs of all teams and shall be capable of dealing with any relevant business which may arise.

8. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS.

(a) The Club must hold an Annual General Meeting once in every calendar year, normally on the second Friday of July.

(b) Persons entitled to vote at the AGM are: - Officers of the Club, Life Members and all registered members of the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club playing in the prior season.

(c) The Treasurer will produce a statement of accounts of the Club for the latest financial year which have been verified by an authorised independent person.

(d) The General Secretary will present a report on the Club activities since the last AGM.

(e) The members will discuss and vote on any resolution (whether about policy or change of rules).

9. EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING. 

The General Secretary shall convene an Extraordinary Meeting at the request of the Executive Committee or the demand of the majority of its members. All members are to be given one calendar months’ notice of this meeting which will be posted on the website. Eligibility to vote: Life Members and registered players.

10. DISCLOSURES.

(a) Annual Club accounts and statements of accounts must be made available for inspection by any member.

(b) The Chairperson and General Secretary shall serve for a period of two years and election of these offices shall occur in alternate years. Other Officers, Committee members and representatives shall be elected annually.

(c) Officers wishing to resign before their term of office expires shall give one month’s written notice of their intention to do so. An Executive Committee member shall cease to be such if they resigns by written notice, or is removed by the Executive Committee for good cause after the member concerned has been given the chance of putting their case to the Executive Committee. An appeal can be made to the Governing Body. 

(d) Where possible nominations for the election of Officers to the Executive Committee shall be given to the General Secretary at least 14 days prior to the AGM In the absence at any advanced nomination, a person may be nominated at the AGM.

11. PROPERTY.

(a) The Club may provide sporting and related facilities, sporting equipment, coaching, courses, insurance cover and any other benefits of Community Amateur Sports Clubs.

(b) The Club may also in connection with the sports purpose of the Club indemnity the Committee acting properly in the course of the running of the Club (but only to the extent of its assets).

(c) The property and the funds of the Club cannot be used for the direct or indirect private benefit of its members other than as reasonably allowed by this rule.

(d) All surplus income or profits are re-invested in the Club. No surpluses or assets will be distributed to members or third parties.

12. WINDING UP THE CLUB.

(a) The members may vote to wind up the Club if not less than three-quarters of those present and voting support that proposal at a properly convened general meeting.

(b) The Committee will be responsible for the orderly winding up of the Club’s affairs.

(c) Upon dissolution of the Club any remaining assets shall be given or transferred to a CASC registered Club, situated within the Plymouth and District area, whose primary responsibility is to promote Table Tennis.

13. TRUSTEES

(a) The Executive Committee shall appoint three Trustees to hold office until death or resignation unless removed from office by a resolution of the Executive Committee or by a resolution duly passed at the Annual General Meeting or at an Extraordinary General Meeting. The Executive Committee shall take into account when nominating Trustees that the original wishes of the Club were that the Chairperson, the General Secretary and the Treasurer would be nominated as the Club’s Trustees.

(b) The property of the Club (other than cash which shall be vested under the control of the Treasurer) shall be vested in the Trustees to be dealt with by them as the Executive Committee so decides.

(c) Only the Trustees shall, when directed to at the Annual General Meeting or at an Extraordinary General Meeting hold, purchase, or take on lease of any land of buildings. Similarly shall sell, exchange, mortgage, lease or build upon the land with power to alter or demolish buildings and rebuild.

(d) Only the Trustees shall, when directed to at the Annual General Meeting or at an Extraordinary General Meeting obtain advances of money for purposes of the Club, secured or not, as a mortgage against the real property of the Club, and agree such terms as to interest, and as to the time and manner of repayment. 

RULES & REGULATIONS

1. LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS.

The method of deciding the League Championship shall be as follows:

(a) The Match Secretary will present to the Executive Committee a recommended structure for the number of teams per Division and the format for the forth-coming season. This recommendation should be appropriate to the number of teams that have applied to enter the league programme. The Executive Committee will then either approve the recommendation of ask the Match Secretary to offer an alternative proposal for consideration.

(b) Teams from individual Clubs shall consist of 3 or more members who shall play matches consisting of 10 sets as follows:

(i) 9 sets of singles, each of 3 members of the 1 team shall play each of 3 members of the other team;

(ii) 1 set of doubles; any pair of the 1 team shall play any pair of the other team, the Home Team to nominate their doubles pairing before their opponents;

(iii) Each set shall consist of the best of 5 games under TTE ruling.

(C) (i) No player shall be obliged to appear in 2 consecutive sets unless a minimum of 5 minutes shall have elapsed between them.

(ii) The order of play shall be as follows: A v X, B v Y, C v Z, B v X, A v Z, C v Y, B v Z, C v X, A v Y, Doubles, where ABC are the home team and XYZ the visitors. The visiting Captain shall allocate the letters to both teams as they wish except that C or Z must be given to any player not present at the start of the match. Should a player not be present when required to play then the remainder of the match shall be played from the players present in the order decided by the opposing Captain.

(d) A team shall be credited with 1 match point for each set won; each such point shall count in the League table.

(e) Should the championship or runners-up position end in a tie then the team gaining most points in the matches directly between the teams concerned shall gain the award. If still equal then a play-off shall be arranged at a venue decided by the Executive Committee. 

(f) The team having secured the highest number of points at the termination of the season, or having won a play-off shall be declared the champions of its division. 

(g) All league fixtures shall be completed by the date specified by the Executive Committee. 

2. AVERAGES. 

(a) The names of players who win 75% or more of their league games shall be published in the next season’s handbook provided that they have played a minimum of 75% of the total number of league matches.

(b) Averages Awards. To be awarded lo the players who head the Divisions averages at the completion of the season, subject to certain conditions agreed by the Executive Committee (currently that they must play 75% or more of the total number of league games). 

Division One - ‘D. W. Fletcher’ Trophy, Division Two. ‘Tacker O’Neil’ Trophy, Division Three- Mike Trembeth’ Trophy, Division Four- ‘Roy Furnace’ Trophy, Division Five- ‘Mitrem Trophy, Division Six- ‘Pete Leslie’ Trophy.

(c) “Esme Bazell” Trophy: To be awarded to the leading Lady player in the League at the completion of the season subject to conditions agreed by the Executive Committee. (Currently that she must have played 75% or more of the total number of league games).

(d) “Abbott Plate” To be awarded to the oldest fully registered player in the league (as shown in league records) who has played 33% or more of the total number of league matches.

(e) “AC. Ballard” Trophy and Global Sports” Trophy: To be awarded on merit to the Junior (Male and Female respectively) member of the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club who in the opinion of the Executive Committee shows: 

(i) The most improved all round playing ability; 

(ii) An obvious interest in the League’s activities;

(iii) Sportsmanship;

(iv) Completion of Competitions.

(f) “Bill Bedwell Trophy”: To be awarded to an adult member playing in Division 3 or 4 in recognition of their sportsmanship and commitment to the Sport. 

(g) “Stewart Rose Memorial’ Trophy: To be awarded to an adult member playing in Division 5 or below in recognition of their sportsmanship and commitment to the Sport.

(h)  “Helen Wilkie” Cup: To be awarded to a predominantly Junior Team in the Lowest Division for their general conduct and sporting attitude. 

(i) “Bob Stuckey” Trophy: To be awarded to the most outstanding new young league player.

(j) “Plymouth Sports Club” Trophy: To be awarded for administration service to Table Tennis.

3. IDENTIFICATION OF TEAMS.

(a) Where a club enters 2 or more teams they shall be identified as A, B, C, etc., or by subsidiary titles commencing with A, B, C, etc in order of merit. It is assumed that where a club has more than 1 team the highest ranked players will comprise the A team and the following 3 highest ranked players the B team etc. Where this procedure is disregarded and the Executive Committee deem such action against the best interest of the League Championship, the Executive Committee may take such action as thought necessary and subject it to the approval of the governing body.

(i) Where a team has specific sponsorship, a team can be called by its sponsors name but ranked within the club it represents to allow for players 'playing-up' for the same club.

(b) Where a club has more than 1 team, a player of a lower ranking team (except those notified to the club secretary by the match secretary for disregarding rule 3a above) may play a total of 5 league matches and 1 cup match for a higher ranking team, if a further match is played the player shall not be permitted to play again for the lower ranking team unless reinstatement is granted by the league. A player cannot play for a team other than their own in the same division if that player has a higher personal average than the player they wish to replace. Where the higher team has more than 3 registered players this shall be applied to the lowest averaged player of those not playing excluding temporary players.

(c) A player asking to play for a team in a lower division cannot play up again for a team in a higher division for the remainder of the season.

4. KNOCK-OUT CUPS.

(a) Unless the Executive Committee decides otherwise the Knock-Out Cups will be held annually and all teams will be entered for their respective events.

(b) Match procedure shall be as for the League Championships (see rule 1). In the event of a draw (5-5) an extra set of doubles shall be played as a decider. The same pair shall not play in both sets.

(c) Should a result card not be received within the time allowed (see Rule 11) then the away team shall proceed to the next round irrespective of the match result.

(d) In all rounds up to the final, matches shall be played according to the draw, on teams’ own tables. The venue for the final shall be decided by the Executive Committee.

(e) In the final, the order of play as laid down in Rule 1 (C) (ii) shall apply, with the two doubles events last. The two Captains shall toss to decide which team be ABC or XYZ. On completion of this they will retire and write on a piece of paper the names of their team against allotted letters which they will pass to the referee who will then set the order of play for the singles. If required, their 1st doubles pairings will be submitted, on paper, to the referee at the conclusion of the singles play and the second pairings (if required) at the conclusion of the first doubles.

(f) In the event of a non-appearance of a team, the team offended against shall be awarded the match.

(g) No player shall be permitted to represent more than oneteam in the same competition.

HANDICAP CUP MATCH PROCEDURE (By Overall Points). 

(h)…..Service shall be in blocks of 5 rather than 2. Each set consists of 2 games to 25 points (games finish with first player/pair reaching 25). All points including Handicap are added up per team and the team with the most points are declared the winners. If points are level after all the sets have been played one deciding point will be played to be served by the team receiving the handicap (as if the game had continued). If neither team receives a handicap the point will be served by the team who should be serving next (as if the game had continued).

5. WOMEN’S TEAM KNOCK-OUT CUP.

(a) A Knock-Out Cup competition shall be held annually and shall be open to Ladies Club Teams in membership with the Plymouth and District Table Tennis club.

(b) Rules governing the competition shall correspond to those controlling the “Evening Herald” Cup competition, “Roborough” Trophy, “Cyril Evans” Memorial Cup and “MM. Woolland” Cup.

6. CUP COMPETITIONS.

(a) The “Roborough” Trophy for Senior club Pairs shall be competed for annually and shall be open to all members playing in the League Championships.

(b) The “Cyril Evans” Memorial Cup for Junior Club Pairs shall be competed for annually and shall be open to all members playing the in the League Championship who are under 17 on 1st July previous to the competition. A player with no available partner may apply to the Executive Committee who will if possible allocate him/her one.

(c) The “M.M. Woolland” Cup for Women’s’ Club Pairs be competed for annually and shall be open to Women.

(d) The “Handicap Pairs” Competition shall be competed for annually and shall be open to all members playing in the League Championships.

(e) Pairs shall be unchanged throughout the competition.

(f) A match consists of 4 sets of singles (each pair playing each of the other) and 1 set of doubles.

(g) The order of play shall be (1) A v X (2) B v Y (3) Doubles (4) A v Y (5) B v X. The visiting Captain shall allocate players to letters for both pairs.

(h) Rules governing the competition shall correspond where applicable to those controlling the League Championships.

7. PLYMOUTH CLOSED CHAMPIONSHIPS.

Unless the Executive Committee decides otherwise Plymouth Closed Championship Competitions shall be held annually. 

(a) Entries shall be restricted to registered Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club members who have played a minimum of 4 League or Cup matches in the current season. Temporarily registered players do not qualify.

(b) Registered Members of the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club not fulfilling the above requirements may be permitted to enter at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

(c) A Player may enter any number of competitions for which they are qualified.

(d) All competitions shall be played at venues selected by the Executive Committee. 

(e) “Seedings” of the draw may or may not be carried out at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

(f) Competitors for the Junior Boys and Girls Singles Championships shall be under 18 on 31st December previous to the competition.

(g) Competitors for the Cadet Boys and Girls Singles Championships shall be under 15 on 31st December previous to the competition.

(h) Competitors for the Veterans Singles Competition shall be over 40 on 31st December previous to the competition.

(i) Competitors for the Super Veterans Singles Competition shall be over 50 on 31st December previous to the competition.

(j) In order to promote the sport of Table Tennis, the Executive Committee may allow junior boys and girls who are not members of the Club to play in the Championships providing they live in the Plymouth area and do not play in any other league.

8. LIGHTING.

At least 3 lights, each a minimum of 150 watts and all suitably shaded to be in use. 1 light over the centre of the table, the remainder to be equal distance but not less than 5ft or more than 6ft 6ins apart. The centre light to be not less than 8ft nor more than 9ft from the floor to the edge of the shade, all others to be not less than 9ft nor more than 10ft. Clubs not able to comply with these conditions owing to structure difficulties must apply in writing to the Executive Committee for exemption before the commencement of the playing season.

9. REGISTRATION 

(a) A player shall not be eligible to play in a match until their registration (on the prescribed form) has been acknowledged by the Match Secretary. 

(b) A player may not register for more than 1 team at any one time. 

(c) A minimum of 3 players shall be registered for a team prior to commencement of the season. 

(d) Clubs experiencing difficulties may apply for temporary registration at a reduced fee (see Rule 17(b)), this will apply for 5 matches only. 

(e) If a 6th match is played then the full registration fee becomes due. 

(f) Players registered on a temporary basis may not enter the Plymouth Closed Championships (except in case of Rule 7(b)). 

(g) Should a team withdraw from the League after the first Governing Body meeting, then the registered players of that team shall not be permitted to play for any other team that season unless an appeal by the players is upheld by the Executive Committee. 

(h) The Executive Committee shall have the right to refuse or cancel the registration of a player in any division (responsible officer of the club making the application to be notified).  

10. TRANSFER.

Players shall be permitted to transfer from one club to another by obtaining the agreement of the Match Secretary to whom written consent of both clubs shall be produced.

11. MATCH RESULT.

A result card (either Card or Electronic) shall be forwarded to reach the Match Secretary within 4 days, excluding Sundays, of the match being completed and the Card must be signed by a representative of each team. If an electronic scorecard is to be sent to the Match Secretary then the opposing teams are to countersign each other’s Match Scorebooks. Should it not be received then the appropriate fine shall be imposed. If the scorecard is not received within a further 3 days then the appropriate fine for a late card shall be doubled and the home team shall receive no points in respect of the match concerned: the away team shall receive the points which they gained provided that they forward a copy of the result if requested. On the first occasion only each season, after the 4 days, the Match Secretary shall have a direct approach to the home team to request that the card or a copy be sent. A copy of the scorecard must be kept in book form by each team.

12. POSTPONEMENT

(a) A home team desiring to postpone a match shall be within their rights to do so providing that their opponents receive a clear 2 days notice. At least 3 alternative dates excluding Saturdays and Sundays, except by mutual agreement, must be offered. A visiting team wishing to postpone a match may do so only if the home team agrees: if they do so agree then the home team must offer one alternative date to their opponents. In both cases the team responsible for postponing the match must advise the Match Secretary of the postponement within 24 hours of the original fixture date and the revised date when it is fixed. (Notification is not required when the alteration means that the match will be played earlier than the original fixture). 

(b) All league matches must be played within the block of fixtures to which they were originally scheduled to be played i.e first half or second half of the season.

(c) Failure to comply with these rules will cause the defaulting team to lose the fixture, points being awarded in accordance with Rule 18(b). 

(d) The home night of each team will be published in the handbook which will be on the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club website, individual clubs wishing to change the Home night of any of their teams may apply to the Match Secretary for permission. If granted the club requesting the change, must inform all interested parties including the Website Manager and those teams likely to be affected.

13. PROTESTS AND APPEALS.

All protests and appeals must be forwarded to the Match Secretary within 14 days of the match or within 7 days of any decision being announced by the Match Secretary.

14. MATCH TIMES 

(a) (i) Should a team not have 2 players present by the starting time of 7:30pm (or the agreed starting time) a fine for a late start shall be incurred. Should 2 players still not be present 30 mins after the agreed starting time then their opponents shall be entitled to claim the match and the team at fault shall be deemed to have failed to appear. The 3rd player is obliged to arrive in time to allow the match to continue i.e. by the end of the 7th set. No more than 5 minutes shall elapse between each set.

(ii) With the agreement of both teams, the starting time can be changed to an earlier convenient time. 

(b) Matches shall be completed on the same day as commenced. If this is not possible due to circumstances beyond the control of either team e.g. power failure, then the match shall be deemed not to have started and shall have to be replayed. 

15. MATCH EQUIPMENT.

(a) Match Ball: All matches shall be played with a 3 Star ITTF approved white or orange plastic ball.

(b) The Racket: The racket used must be authorised by the ITTF and without modification. The racket shall not be replaced during an individual match unless it is accidently damaged so badly that it cannot be used; if this happens the damaged racket shall be replaced immediately by another which the player has brought with them to the playing area or one which is handed to them in the playing area. Unless otherwise authorised by the umpire, players shall leave their rackets on the table during intervals, but if the racket is strapped to the hand, the umpire shall allow the player to retain their racket strapped to the hand during intervals.

16. FINANCE.

The financial year ends on the 31st May and a statement of accounts for this year period which have been verified by an authorised independent person shall be published annually. Cheque payments must be signed by any two of the Treasurer and one of two approved Officers of the Club.

17. FEES 

(a) TEAM REGISTRATION 

(i) The team fee shall be £60 per team in the Standard League and £40 per team in the Pairs League, of which a deposit of £15 must accompany any application to join the League Championships. This deposit is not refundable should a team withdraw after submitting its application. 

(ii) It is understood that any increase in affiliation fees due to TTE may automatically be added to the current individual fee as and when the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club is advised of any change. 

(iii) The cost for a team to hire a table for their home league matches at HQ shall be £55 (reduced to £30 for season 2021/22 only) for the season, the cost for a team to hire a table at HQ for 1 league match shall be £7.50 (reduced to £5 for season 2021/22 only. 

(b)  INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION (i) and (ii)

SEE FINES AND FEES TAB

(iii) The above charges include a TTE Registration Fee for all League Players of £16 for Seniors and £8 for Juniors. At present TTE does not charge a Registration Fee for Associate Players. 

(c) Individual registration fees shall be payable to the Treasurer not later than four weeks after the commencement of the League together with the balance outstanding of any team fees. Additional registrations made during the season shall be paid within four weeks immediately following the date of registration. It is understood that any increase in affiliation fees due to TTE or Devon County may automatically be added to the current individual fee as and when the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club is advised of any change. 

(d) Any individual club registered with TTE as a Premier Club will be given the option to pay their members own individual TTE affiliation fees (as shown in para 17b (iii) above) direct to the TTE. If this option is taken then the members of that Premier Club will have their individual registration fees to the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club reduced by the standard TTE Senior/Junior affiliation fees. Each Premier Club is to provide a list of their players who are directly affiliated. Failure to affiliate to TTE will mean non registered players from that club being unable to play in the Plymouth League Championships. 

(e) The Executive Committee has the power to increase fees after the commencement of any season should any unforeseen circumstance arise which could result in financial insecurity of the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club. 

(f) A player registered for an individual club may, subject to the Match Secretary’s permission transfer to another club and shall pay a fee of £5 to the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club. 

(g) All players registered with the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club must make themselves aware of the laws of Table Tennis. 

(h) A handbook shall be supplied gratis to each registered player requiring one on request or it can be printed themselves from the website. 

18. FORFEITS AND FINES 

(a) If an ineligible player participates in a match, their club shall be fined £3 and the procedure shall be as if the player had not put in an appearance. 

(b) If a singles player of a team fails to appear at a match or fails to complete their singles sets in a match (unless due to injury or illness during the match) their side forfeits the match points concerned and will be fined £3 (THIS WILL BE SUSPENDED FOR SEASON 2022/23 ONLY, DUE TO COVID FEARS):if two or more singles players of a team fail to appear the match shall be declared void and adjudicated upon by the Executive Committee. The team offended against shall be awarded its fair expectation of points, the team offending shall receive no points and be fined £6 for each offence. 

(c)  A fine of £5 will be imposed on the offending team for failure to play a match within 14 days of the Sunday ending the original fixture week (see Rule 12). In addition all registered players of the offending team will be credited with zero points score for the match which will be included in the calculation for their personal averages. 

(d) A fine of £3 will be imposed for each team in connection with any protest or appeal which shall be deemed frivolous (see Rule 13).

(e) A fine of £3 will be imposed for a 1st offence and £5 for any subsequent offence for each team in connection with:

(i) Late start (see Rule 14).

(ii) Late receipt of result card (see Rule 11).

(iii) The fine under Rule 18e(ii) shall be doubled if the result card is not received within 7 days (excluding Sundays) of the match being completed (excluding Sundays). 

(f) Falsification of Match result cards and condoning of such action will result in either or both teams being fined the sum of £10.

(g) A fine of £3 will be incurred for failure to notify the Match Secretary or Assistant Match Secretary in accordance with rule 12.

(h) Any club not represented at the time the Chairperson declares a club meeting open (see constitution, paragraph 7) shall incur a fine of £5 for the first offence and £6 for subsequent offences.

(i) A fine of £10 will be incurred should any trophies won or awarded not being returned to the League by 31st March in the season following their presentation.

(j) Any team withdrawing from the League after the initial Governing Body meeting of the season will not only forfeit all fees paid but must also pay all outstanding fees and shall incur a fine of £5 for every match not played in its respective Division with the exception of Knock-out and Handicap Cup matches.

(k) A fine of £3 per team will be imposed if individual or team fees have not been fully paid by the due date specified by the Treasurer.

(l) All fines to be paid to the Treasurer 4 weeks following the imposition of the fine thereafter, unpaid fines shall be increased by an additional 100%.

(m) The Match Secretary or Assistant Match Secretary in consultation with the Exec Committee if required, will have the discretion to waive a fine should the fault be caused by, ill health, bereavement, serious traffic disruption or other extenuating circumstances.

19. MISC. 

The Executive Committee shall have the power to suspend, fine or expel any team or member of the club whose conduct in their opinion is detrimental to the interest of the club. All Teams subscriptions and registration fees shall be forfeited to the club in such case.

(a) Any flagrant disregard of the rules may mean a fine, suspension or expulsion from the club.

(b) Any proposed alterations to a rule shall be submitted in writing to reach the General Secretary not later than 31st March. All proposals received shall be circulated to all team Secretaries by the last monthly fixture meeting of the season, after which date amendments to the proposals will be accepted for consideration by the Annual General Meeting provided they are submitted in writing and received by the General Secretary not later than 31st May. The proposer and/or seconder must be in attendance at the Annual General meeting to present alteration to rule.

(c) A player wishing to practice at Headquarters must be (or become) a registered member of the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club or have prior permission of the Executive Committee. For all non-organised practice (i.e. not under the control of a steward) players’ names MUST be entered in the attendance registers BEFORE play commences. The appropriate fee must be forwarded to the treasurer within one month. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action being taken by the Executive Committee, which could incur suspension.

19 (d) Where a Team is based at HQ and have paid their Table Fees for the Season they can use their allocated home night for a practice if they do not have a match that week and if a free table is available. If they wish to play a friendly on their allocated home night and invite another team or players, each of those players must pay the appropriate match practice Fee. In the event that the table has already been allocated for a rescheduled match then the match will take precedence.

20. DIVISIONAL PAIRS LEAGUE

RULES AND REGULATIONS

(a) The League will be known as the Plymouth & District Table Tennis Club Divisional Pairs League.

(b) The name of the league or any division can be changed following executive committee approval or if a sponsor should come forward and that name adopted to that league.

(c) Teams will comprise of two or more players and they must hold a valid table Tennis England players licence.

(d) The object of the Plymouth & district Table Tennis Pairs league shall be to conduct an annual competition between affiliated players that form 2 players teams. The League shall be open to all Plymouth & District affiliated clubs and members. Admission and re-admission to the pairs competition shall be at the discretion of the Committee.

(e) An annual entry fee and membership fee shall be charged for each team entered in the competition.

(f) The competition shall be conducted in one or more divisions based on the entries received at the start of the season.

(g) Where the numbers of pairs in each or any section justify, such sections shall be divided into divisions designated 1,2,3 etc or A,B, C etc in order of merit.

(h) The top team in each division shall hold for one year the championship trophy appropriate to that division.

(i) Teams shall be allocated a division at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

(j) Each pairs match consists of 5 matches in which all 5 sets shall be played. A match consists of 4 singles and 1 doubles match.

(k) FIXTURES AND FORMAT: The Pairs match secretary shall arrange the fixtures which may involve pairs playing 1,2 or 3 times. Matches should be played by the allotted date and played in the following format:-

(i) For each pairs match, the home team captain shall nominate players A or B.

(ii) The away team captain shall nominate X or Y.

(iii) The match will be played in the following order:-

(a) Match 1 A v X; Match 2 B v Y – maximum 5 minute break

(b) Match 3 A v Y; Match 4 B v X – maximum 5 minute break

(c) Match 5 Doubles AB or C v XY or Z

(iv) One 1 minute ‘time-out’ period can be used by a player at any point during their match. They must not leave the playing area but can liaise with team members during this time. The umpire will time the one minute ‘timeout’ and call players back to the table to resume the game. 

(v) PDTTC has adopted the following ITTF rules on giving advice to players during matches:- 

From the 1st October 2016 the new Regulation (5.3.2.1) states “Players may receive advice at any time except during rallies provided that continuity of play is not affected (3.4.4.1); if any authorised person gives advice illegally the umpire shall hold up a yellow card (or verbally) to warn them that any further such offence will result in their dismissal from the playing area.”

(l) POSTPONEMENT:

(i) A home team desiring to postpone a match shall be within their rights to do so providing that their opponents receive a clear 2 days notice. At least 3 alternative dates excluding Saturdays and Sundays, except by mutual agreement, must be offered. 

(ii) A visiting team wishing to postpone a match may do so only if the home team agrees: if they do so agree then the home team must offer one alternative date to their opponents. In both cases the team responsible for postponing the match must advise the Match Secretary of the postponement within 24 hours of the original fixture date along with the revised date when it is fixed. (Notification is not required when the alteration means that the match will be played earlier than the original fixture). 

(iii) All league matches in the first half of the season must be completed by the end of the first half of the season. All league matches in the second half of the season must be completed by the end of the second half of the season and before the cup finals week.

(iv) The match secretary must be informed of the team wishing to postpone the match in the event that an adjudication is required.

(v) All cup matches must be played within 14 days of the Sunday ending the original fixture week (subject to Rule 14(b) with the exception that ALL matches must be played by the Friday of the Cup Finals week and that cup matches must be played in the stipulated week.  

(vi) Failure to comply with these rules will cause the defaulting team to lose the fixture, points being awarded in accordance with Rule 18(b).

(vii) The home night of each team will be published in the handbook and on the Plymouth and District Table Tennis Club website, individual clubs wishing to change the home night of any of their teams may apply to the Match Secretary for permission. If granted the club requesting the change must inform all interested parties including the Website Manager and those teams likely to be affected.

(m) Pairs will be awarded 1 point for each individual set won (i.e a home team winning 13-12, the home team will be awarded 13 points and the away team awarded 12 points).

(n) Should the championship or runners-up position end in a tie then the team gaining most points in the matches directly between the teams concerned shall gain the award. If still equal then a play-off shall be arranged at a venue decided by the Executive committee.

(o) Where a club has more than 1 team, a player of a lower ranking team (except those notified to the club secretary by the Pairs match secretary for disregarding rule 3a above) may play a total of 5 league matches for a higher ranking team, if a further match is played the player shall not be permitted to play again for the lower ranking team unless reinstatement is granted by the league. A player cannot play for a team other than their own in the same division if that player has a higher personal average than the player they wish to replace. Where the higher team has more than 3 registered players this shall be applied to the lowest averaged player of those not playing excluding temporary players.

(p)   

Players competing in the Plymouth & District Divisional Pairs League can represent teams in the 3 man Plymouth & District League (with approval from the League Match and Assistant Match secretaries).  Players competing in the Plymouth and District League can (at the discretion of the League Match and Assistant Match secretaries) replace or act as a reserve for a team in the Plymouth & District Divisional Pairs League.

(q) The match score sheets should be fully completed and sent electronically to the Pairs Match Secretary within 48 hours. A copy of the original scores must be kept by the Team Captain in the allocated score book which must be signed off by each team captain. Scores to be kept as a record until the final tables are produced on the website, in case information is required by the Committee if there is a disputed result.

(r) Players competing in the Divisional Pairs League will not be eligible to compete in the 3 player format handicap Cup competition.

(s) For League positions and any amendments to result please consult the website.

(t) Forfeits & Fines as laid down in Section 18 shall be apply to the Divisional Pairs League where applicable.

21. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. 

The Executive Committee will deal with any matters that are not covered by these rules.

(Note that all references to ‘MATCH’ are interpreted by the Plymouth & District League as “SET”) 

1. The RACKET (TTE Rule 2.4.5) The blade, any layer within the blade and any layer of covering material or adhesive on a side used for striking the ball shall be continuous and even thickness. 

2. SERVICE (TTE Rule 2.6) Service shall start with the ball resting freely on the flat, open palm of the server’s stationary hand.

(Rule 2.6.2) The server shall then project the ball near vertically upwards, without imparting spin, so that it rises at least 16cm after leaving the palm of the free hand then falls without touching anything before being struck.

(Rule 2.6.4) 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 if shall not be hidden from the receiver by any part of the body or clothing of the server or their doubles partner.

(Rule 2.6.5) It is the responsibility of the player to serve so that the umpire or the assistant umpire can see that they complies with the requirements for a good service.

(Rule 2.6.5.1) If there is no assistant umpire and the umpire is doubtful of the legality of a service they may, on the first occasion in a match, warn the server without awarding a point.

(Rule 2.6.5.2) If subsequently in the match a service by that player or their doubles partner is of dubious legality, for the same or any other reason, the receiver shall score a point.

(Rule 2.6.5.3) 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.

(Rule 2.6.6) Exceptionally, the umpire may relax the requirements for a good service where they are satisfied that compliance is prevented by physical disability. 

Explanation and intent of the new service rule

1. As soon as the free hand (the hand holding the ball in service) and arm has projected the ball upwards, the free hand/arm must be immediately removed to the side. In other words, the free arm must not remain in any area between the ball and the receiver- it has to be out of the line of the sight of the receiver and the ball.

(Rule 2.5 TTE DEFINITION) (2.5.2. SERVICE) 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 racket held in the racket hand or the racket hand below the wrist, or until the rally is otherwise decided as a let.

(Rule 2.5.8 TTE DEFINITION) (2.10.1.4a POINT) A player obstructs the ball if they, or anything they wears or carries, touches it in play when it has not passed beyond their end line, not having touched their court since last being hit by their opponent. (Note the ball no longer goes out of play if it passes over the playing surface without touching it, unless it also passes beyond the end line at the far end of the table from the striker).

2.10 A POINT (TTE Rule 2.10) (Rule 2.10.1.4.) Unless the rally is a let, a player shall score a point if the ball passes beyond their end line without touching their court, after being struck by their opponent.

Either player (or pair) shall lose a point:

(a) if their racket, or anything they wear or carries touches the net (including net supports) while the ball is in play;

(b) if their free hand touches the playing surface while the ball is in play.

2.11. A GAME (TTE Rule 2.11.1) 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 be won by the first player or pair subsequently gaining a lead of 2 points. 

2.13 THE ORDER OF SERVING, RECEIVING AND ENDS (Rule 2.13)

2.13.3After 2 points have been scored the receiving, player or pair shall become the serving player or pairs and so on until the end of the game, unless both players or pair score 10 points or the expedite system is in operation, when the sequences of serving and receiving shall be the same but each player shall serve only 1 point in turn. 

2.13.6The 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.

4. EXPEDITE RULE (Rule 2.15) Amend: - Except where both players 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.

2.15.1.1 If the ball is in play when the time limit is reached, play shall be interrupted by the umpire and shall resume with a service by the player who served in the rally that was interrupted.

2.15.1.2 If the ball is not in play when the time limit is reached, play shall resume with a service by the player who received in the preceding rally.

2.15.2 Thereafter, each player shall serve 1 point in turn until the end of the game and if the receiving player or pair makes 13 good returns the receiver shall score a point.

2.15.3 Once introduced, the expedite system shall remain in operation until the end of the match.

5. DOUBLES ORDER OF PLAY The pair who serve first in a game shall receive first in the next game. The pair who are to serve first in any game choose which of them will do so. The first receiver shall be the one who served to him in the previous game.

6. THE RACKET The surface of the covering material on a side of the 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 side. A side of the blade used to “Strike” the ball must be covered with either pimples out 2mm maximum thickness, or smooth rubber (pimples in) maximum thickness 4mm.

NOTE: No uncovered blade must be used for striking the ball.

All players are reminded that the above LAW MUST be observed and any player is entitled to refuse to play an opponent with a racket not conforming to the law, and the opponent using the illegal racket will forfeit the game.

7. (Rule 2.4.8) At the start of a match and whenever they change their racket during a match a player shall show their opponent and the umpire the racket they are about to use and shall allow them to examine it.

(Rule 2.4.10) A racket shall not be changed during an individual match unless it is accidentally damaged so badly that it cannot be used. (TTE Law as of 2010).

8. A LET SERVICE If in a service the ball touches the net, the rally is a “let” unless the ball passes the receiver’s end line without touching the side of the table. If it is obstructed over the table by the receiver it is still a let.

9. LETS It should be noted that the umpire is the sole judge of lets even in the case of an obvious let, play should continue pending the umpires intervention. The umpire is within their rights in penalising any such infringement without prior warning at their discretion, however they may use a warning in the first instance and penalise thereafter.

10. DRESS Extracts from Rule 3.2.2. Playing clothing shall normally consist of a short-sleeved or sleeveless shirt and shorts or skirt or one-part sports outfit, socks and playing shoes. Other garments, such as part or all of a tracksuit, shall not be worn during play except with the permission of the referee. The main colour of a shirt, skirt or shorts, other than sleeves and collar of a shirt, shall be clearly different from that of the ball.

11. INTERVALS Extracts from Rule 3.4.4 

(Rule 3.4.4.1) Play shall be continuous throughout the match except that any player is entitled to:

(Rule 3.4.4.1.1) an interval of 1 minute between successive games of a match;

(Rule 3.4.4.1.2) brief intervals for towelling after every 6 points from the start of a game and at the change of ends in the last possible game of a match. 

(Rule 3.4.4.2) A Player or pair may claim one time-out period of up to 1 minute during an individual match. They must not leave the playing area but can liaise with team members during this time. The umpire will time the one minute ‘timeout’ and call players back to the table to resume the game.

(Rule 3.5.1.3) Players may receive advice at any time except during rallies provided play is not thereby delayed (3.4.4.1); if any authorised person gives advice illegally the umpire shall hold up a yellow card (or verbally) to warn them that any further such offence will result in their dismissal from the playing area.

Plymouth & District Table Tennis Club have adopted and are subject to the codes and policies of the TTE as listed: Child Protection Policy; Equity Policy; Equality Policy; Code Of Practice For Officials And Volunteers; Code Of Practice For Parents/Carers; Code Of Practice For Members; Guidelines For Dealing With Incidents/Accidents; Equity In Your Coaching. These are to be reviewed annually.

Club policies can be obtained on the club website.