Zero Tolerance Policy

The Greater Lansing Bridge Center and its Board of Directors are committed to maintaining a pleasant atmosphere in our Bridge Center at all times. In accordance with Laws 74 and 92A (Laws of Duplicate Bridge) the following policy outlines what is expected of all players during Club Games and other ACBL sponsored events, as well as in the playing area before and after each session. The ultimate purpose of the Z-T policy is to maintain a pleasant atmosphere in our Club. Another goal of this policy is to prevent unacceptable behavior from occurring in order to make the game of bridge more enjoyable for all. Below are some examples of commendable behavior, which, while not required, will significantly contribute to a pleasant atmosphere:

Being a good 'host' or 'guest' at the table.
Greeting others in a friendly manner.
Praising the bidding and/or play of the opponents
Having two clearly completed convention cards readily available to the opponents (This one is a regulation)

The following are some examples of behavior which will not be tolerated:

Badgering, rudeness, insinuations, intimidation, profanity, threats, or violence.
Negative comments concerning opponents' or partner's play or bidding.
Constant and gratuitous lessons and analyses at the table.
Loud and disruptive arguing with a director's ruling.

If a player at the table behaves in an unacceptable manner, the director should be called immediately. Annoying behavior, embarrassing remarks, or any other conduct which might interfere with the enjoyment of the game is specifically prohibited by Law 74A. Law 91A gives the director the authority to assess disciplinary penalties.

The following procedures have been given to the club directors for implementation.

I. On a monthly basis, at the start of each nightly game, the director shall make an announcement that the club will be observing ZERO TOLERANCE for unacceptable behavior. It is requested that the director be called whenever behavior is not consistent with the guidelines outlined above. A copy of this policy shall be posted on a bulletin board at the Club
II. The director, when called, shall make an assessment of the situation. If it is established that there was unacceptable behavior, an immediate ¼ board disciplinary penalty (3 IMP in team games) shall be deducted from the offending pair’s total score. This may involve any one or all four players at the table irrespective of who initiated the unacceptable behavior. If both members of a partnership are guilty, the penalties are additive (¼ board EACH = ½ board!). The Board of Directors believes that discouraging improper behavior will help maintain a pleasant atmosphere in our Club.
III. If it is determined that the same offender is responsible for a second offense in the same game, a disciplinary committee may be convened to determine whether the offender(s) should be allowed to play in future club games and/or whether additional sanctions may be appropriate.
IV. Warnings are strongly discouraged and will be given only when there is no clear violation or in cases where the facts cannot be determined. Offenders are to receive immediate penalties. Regardless of who may have initiated unacceptable behavior, ALL offenses are punishable. Retaliatory behavior is a punishable offense. Frivolous accusations will also be considered as offenses under this policy.
V. The Director shall provide a summary report of all behavioral penalties to the Recorder (Ken Kosloski 699-2664 cnklambeth@comcast.net } and/or Board Chairperson (Jerry Avery, 282-9429 jeravery@comcast.net ).

This policy was adopted on October 5, 2009.