Lets: The Interference Line of Thinking

           

Refereeing is a thankless but necessary task. It always helps to know the rules, and to use the correct calls, but the real 'nitty-gritty' is what you do when one of the players appeals for a let. Below is a summary of the thought process a referee should go through when asked 'Let Please '...

            1. Did interference occur ?

            The striker has four basic rights, and interference has occurred if the opponent fails to provide him with any of these, even if he has made every effort to do so:

                  Unobstructed direct access to the ball

                  A fair view of the ball

                  Freedom to hit the ball

                  Freedom to play the ball directly to the front wall

                   If no interference has occurred, then it's NO LET,

                  otherwise move on to no.2

                  

            2. Could the obstructed player have reached the ball and made a good return ? And was he making every effort to do so ?

            

                  If either answer is NO, then it's NO LET,

                  otherwise move on to no.3

            3. Did the obstructing player make every effort avoid the interference ?

            

                  If he didn't, then it's a STROKE,

                  otherwise move on to no.4

            4. Was the obstructed player in a position to play a winning return ?

            

                  If so, then it's a STROKE,

                  otherwise it's just a LET

Remember though, that this is a simplification - read the rules thoroughly. The over-riding principle of the rules is to ensure a fair result for both players.

It's a common misconception that in order to receive a stroke you have to be in a position to hit a winner.

Not so. You just have to be prevented from playing the ball!

THE RULES OF WORLD SQUASH SINGLES

   1. THE GAME

   2. THE SCORE

   3. POINTS

   4. THE SERVICE

   5. THE PLAY

   6. GOOD RETURN

   7. LET

   8. STROKES

   9. HITTING AN OPPONENT WITH THE BALL

  10. FURTHER ATTEMPTS TO HIT THE BALL

  11. APPEALS

  12. INTERFERENCE

  13. LETS

  14. THE BALL

  15. THE WARM UP

  16. CONTINUITY OF PLAY

  17. CONDUCT ON COURT

  18. CONTROL OF A MATCH

  19. DUTIES OF A MARKER

  20. DUTIES OF A REFEREE

         1. PROPOSED 1997 SINGLES RULES

1. THE GAME

The game of Squash is played between two players, each using a specified racket, with a specified ball, and in a court constructed to WSF specified dimensions.

2. THE SCORE

A match shall consist of the best of three or five games at the option of the organisers of the competition. Each game is to nine points, in that the player who scores nine points wins the game, except that, on the score being called eight-all for the first time, the receiver shall choose before the next service is delivered to continue that game either to nine points (known as "Set one") or to ten points (known as "Set two") in which latter case the player who scores two more points wins the game. The receiver shall in either case clearly indicate their choice to the Marker, Referee and opponent.

The Marker shall call either "Set one" or "Set two" as applicable before play continues.

The Marker shall call "Game ball" to indicate that the server requires one point to win the game in progress or "Match ball" to indicate that the server requires one point to win the match.

3. POINTS

Points can be scored only by the server. When the server wins a stroke the server scores a point; when the receiver wins a stroke the receiver becomes the server.

4. THE SERVICE

          o 4.1 The right to serve first is decided by the spin of a racket. Thereafter, the server continues to serve until losing a stroke, whereupon the opponent becomes the server, and this procedure continues throughout the match. At the commencement of the second and each subsequent game the winner of the previous game serves first.

          o 4.2 At the beginning of each game and each hand the server has the choice of serving from either box and thereafter shall serve from alternate boxes while remaining the server. However, if a rally ends in a let the server shall serve again from the same box.

          o Note To Officials

          o If it appears that the server intends to serve from the wrong box, or either player appears undecided as to which is the correct box, the Marker shall advise which is the correct box. If the Marker makes an error with this advice, or there is any dispute, the Referee shall rule on the correct box. 4.3 For a service to be good there shall be no foot fault and the ball, before being struck, shall be dropped or thrown and shall not hit the walls, floor, ceiling or any object(s) suspended from the walls or ceiling; it shall be served directly onto the front wall between the cut line and the out line so that on its return, unless volleyed, it reaches the floor within the quarter of the court opposite to the server's box. Should a player, having dropped or thrown the ball, make no attempt to strike it, the ball shall be dropped or thrown again for that service . A player with the use of only one arm may utilise the racket to propel the ball into the air before striking it.

          o 4.4 A service is good when it does not result in hand out. The service becomes hand out and the server loses the stroke if:

                + 4.4.1 The ball, after being dropped or thrown for service, touches the wall(s), floor, ceiling or any object(s) suspended from the walls or ceiling before being served. - Called "Fault".

                + 4.4.2 At the time of striking the ball the server fails to have part of one foot in contact with the floor within the service box without any part of that foot touching the service box line (part of that foot may project over this line provided that it does not touch the line). - Called "Foot fault".

                + 4.4.3 The server makes an attempt but fails to strike the ball. - Called "Not up".

                + 4.4.4 The ball is not struck correctly. - Called "Not up".

                + 4.4.5 The ball is served out. -Called "Out".

                + 4.4.6 The ball is served against any part of the court before the front wall. - Called"Fault".

                + 4.4.7 The ball is served onto or below the cut line. - Called "Fault" if above the board and "Down" if on or below the board.

                + 4.4.8 The first bounce of the ball, unless volleyed by the receiver, is on the floor on or outside the short or half court lines of the quarter court opposite to the server's box. - Called "Fault".

                + 4.4.9 The ball, after being served and before it has bounced more than once on the floor and before it has been struck at by the receiver, touches the server or anything the server wears or carries. - Called "Down".

          o 4.5 The server must not serve until the Marker has completed calling the score.

          o Note To Officials

            The Marker must not delay play by the calling of the score. However, if the server serves or attempts to serve prior to the calling of the score, the Referee shall stop play and require the server to wait until the calling of the score has been completed.

5. THE PLAY

After a good service has been delivered the players return the ball alternately until one fails to make a good return, the ball otherwise ceases to be in play in accordance with the rules or on a call by the Marker or Referee.

6. GOOD RETURN

          o 6.1 A return is good if the ball , before it has bounced more than once upon the floor, is returned correctly by the striker onto the front wall above the board, without first touching the floor or any part of the striker's body or clothing, or the opponent's racket, body or clothing, provided the ball is not hit out.

          o 6.2 It shall not be considered a good return if the ball touches the board before or after it hits the front wall and before it bounces on the floor, or if the racket is not in the player's hand at the time the ball is struck.

7. LET

A let is an undecided rally. The rally in respect of which a let is allowed shall not count and the server shall serve again from the same box.

8. STROKES

A player wins a stroke:

          o 8.1 Under Rule 4.4 when the player is the receiver.

          o 8.2 If the opponent fails to make a good return of the ball when the opponent is the striker, unless a let is allowed or a stroke is awarded to the opponent.

          o 8.3 If the ball touches the opponent or anything the opponent wears or carries when the opponent is the non-striker, except as is otherwise provided for in Rules 9, 10 and 13.1.1. In all cases the Referee shall rule accordingly.

          o 8.4 If a stroke is awarded by the Referee as provided for in the rules.

9. HITTING AN OPPONENT WITH THE BALL

If the ball, before reaching the front wall, hits the striker's opponent or

racket, or anything they wear or carry, the ball shall cease to be in play and:

          o 9.1 Unless Rule 9.2 applies, the striker shall win the stroke if the return would have been good and the ball would have struck the front wall without first touching any other wall.

          o 9.2 If the return would have been good but the striker has either followed the ball round and turned or allowed it to pass around themselves - in either case by striking the ball to the right of the striker's body after the ball had passed to the left (or vice versa) then a let shall be allowed in all cases.

          o Note To Referees

          o If the striker, having turned or allowed the ball to pass around them, chooses not to continue the rally due to reasonable fear of striking the opponent and, in the opinion of the Referee, a reasonable possibility of this occurring did exist and the striker would have been able to make a good return, then a let shall be allowed . 9.3 If the ball either had struck or would have struck any other wall and the return would have been good, a let shall be allowed unless, in the opinion of the Referee, a winning return has been intercepted, in which case the striker shall win the stroke.

          o Note To Referees

          o The stroke award provisions of Rule 9 do not apply to turning, ball passing around the striker, or further attempts. 9.4 If the return would not have been good, the striker shall lose the stroke.

          o Note To Officials

            When a player has been struck by the ball as described in Rule 9, the Marker shall call "Down". The Referee shall assess the trajectory of the ball and make all further decisions.

             

10. FURTHER ATTEMPTS TO HIT THE BALL

If the striker strikes at and misses the ball further attempts may be made to strike it. If, after being missed, the ball touches the opponent or the opponent's racket, or anything they wear or carry, then, if, in the opinion of the Referee:

          o 10.1 The striker could otherwise have made a good return a let shall be allowed, or

          o 10.2 The striker could not have made a good return they shall lose the stroke.

            

            

            If any such further attempt is successful resulting in a good return being prevented from reaching the front wall by hitting the striker's opponent or anything theywear or carry, a let shall be allowed in all circumstances. If any such further attempt would not have resulted in a good return, the striker shall lose the stroke.

11.APPEALS

The loser of a rally may appeal against any decision of the Marker affecting that rally.

An appeal to the Referee under Rule 11 should be prefaced with the words "Appeal please". Play shall then cease until the Referee has given a decision.

If an appeal under Rule 11 is disallowed the Marker's decision shall stand. If the Referee is uncertain a let shall be allowed except where provided for in the Note To Referees after Rule 11.2.1 and Notes To Referees C and D after Rule 11.2.2.

Appeals upheld or Referee intervention under Rule 20.4 are dealt with in each specific situation below.

Note To Referees

A pointing gesture is not an appeal.

          o 11.1 Appeals on Service

                + 11.1.1 If the Marker calls "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down" or "Out" to the service the server may appeal. If the appeal is upheld a let shall be allowed.

                + 11.1.2 If the Marker fails to call "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down" or "Out" to the service the receiver may appeal, either immediately or at the end of the rally if they have played or attempted to play the ball. If, in the opinion of the Referee, the service was not good play shall be stopped immediately and a stroke awarded to the receiver.

                  

                  

                  

                  

          o 11.2 Appeals on Play other than Service

                + 11.2.1 If the Marker calls "Not up", " Down" or "Out" following a player's return, the player may appeal. If the appeal is upheld the Referee shall allow a let except that if, in the opinion of the Referee:

                      # - The Marker's call has interrupted that player's winning return, they shall award the stroke to the player.

                      # - The Marker's call has interrupted or prevented a winning return by the opponent, they shall award the stroke to the opponent.

                + Note To Referees

                + In the latter case the Referee shall also award the stroke to the opponent if they are unsure whether the Marker's call was correct. 11.2.2 If the Marker fails to call "Not up", "Down" or "Out" following a player's return the opponent may appeal either immediately or at the end of the rally if they have played or attempted to play the ball. If, in the opinion of the Referee, the return was not good plays shall stop immediately and a stroke shall be awarded to the opponent.

                + Notes To Referees

                + A. No appeal under Rule 11 may be made after the delivery of a service for anything that occurred before that service B. Where there is more than one appeal in a rally (including an appeal under Rule 12) the Referee shall consider each appeal .

                + C. If a return is called "Not up", "Down" or "Out" by the Marker and that same return subsequently goes down or out the Referee, on appeal, if reversing the Marker's call or unsure, shall then rule on the subsequent occurrence.

                + D. If a service is called "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down" or "Out" by the Marker and that service subsequently goes down, not up or out, or is again a fault, the Referee, on appeal, if reversing the Marker's call or unsure, shall then rule on the subsequent occurrence.

                  

                  

                  

                  

12. INTERFERENCE

          o 12.1 When it is their turn to play the ball a player is entitled to freedom from interference by their opponent.

          o 12.2 To avoid interference the opponent must make every effort to provide the player with:

                + 12.2.1 Unobstructed direct access to the ball.

                + 12.2.2 A fair view of the ball.

                + 12.2.3 Freedom to hit the ball.

                + 12.2.4 Freedom to play the ball directly to the front wall

                  

                  

                  

                  

          o 12.3 Interference occurs if the opponent fails to fulfil any of the requirements of Rule 12.2, irrespective of whether they make every effort to do so.

          o Notes To Referees

                + (G1) A. In 12.2.1 the opponent must move to allow the player direct access to the ball as soon as the opponent has completed their own return, i.e. at the completion of a reasonable follow-through of their racket swing. The player must also make every effort to get to and where possible play the ball.

                + B. In 12.2.2 fair view of the ball applies only to its rebound from the front wall.

                + (G2) C. In 12.2.3 freedom to hit the ball requires that the opponent permit the player an arc of racket swing comprising reasonable backswing, strike at the ball and reasonable follow-through.

                + Interference caused by a player's excessive backswing can not result in the award of a stroke to that player.

                + A player's excessive follow-through may cause interference for the opponent when it becomes the latter's turn to play the ball.

                  

                  

                  

                  

          o 12.4 A player encountering what they consider to be interference has the choice of continuing with play or of stopping and appealing to the Referee.

                + (G3) 12.4.1 The correct method of appeal, whether a let or a stroke is sought by the player, is with the words "Let please".

                + (G4) 12.4.2 An appeal may be made only by the player. The appeal must be made either immediately the interference occurs or, where the player clearly does not continue with play beyond the point of interference, without undue delay.

                  

                  

                  

                  

          o 12.5 The Referee shall decide on the appeal and shall announce the decision with the words "No let", "Yes let" or "Stroke to ... (name of appropriate player)". In assessing the interference situation the only relevant opinion is that of the Referee and the Referee's decision shall be final.

          o 12.6 The Referee shall not allow a let and the player shall lose the rally if:

                + 12.6.1 There has been no interference.

                + 12.6.2 Interference has occurred but either the player would not have made a good return or has not made adequate effort to get to and where possible play the ball.

                + 12.6.3 The player has clearly accepted the interference and played on.

                + (G5) 12.6.4 The player has created their own interference in moving to the ball

          o 12.7 The Referee shall allow a let if there has been interference which the opponent has made every effort to avoid and the player would have made a good return.

          o 12.8 The Referee shall award a stroke to the player if:

                + 12.8.1 There has been interference which the opponent has not made every effort to avoid and the player would have made a good return

                + 12.8.2 There has been interference which the opponent has made every effort to avoid and the player would have made a winning return.

                + 12.8.3 The player has refrained from hitting the ball which, if hit, would clearly have struck the opponent going directly to the front wall; or to a side wall but in the latter case would have been a winning return (unless in either case turning, ball passing around player or further attempt applies).

                  

                  

                  

                  

          o 12.9 The Referee is also empowered to allow a let under Rule 12.7 or to award a stroke under Rule 12.8 without an appeal having been made, if necessary stopping play to do so.

          o 12.10 The provisions of Rule 17, Conduct On Court, may be applied in interference situations. The Referee shall, stopping play if it has not already stopped, apply an appropriate penalty if:

                + (G6) 12.10.1 The player has made unnecessary physical contact with their opponent or vice versa.

                + 12.10.2 The player has endangered their opponent with an excessive racket swing.

13. LETS

In addition to lets allowed under other rules, lets may or shall be allowed in certain other cases.

          o 13.1 A let may be allowed:

                + 13.1.1 If owing to the position of the striker, the opponent is unable to avoid being touched by the ball before the return is made.

                + Note To Referees

                + This rule shall include the cases where the striker's position is in front of the opponent, making it difficult for the latter to see the ball, or where the striker allows the ball to pass close to themselves and the ball hits the opponent who is behind the striker. This is not, however, to be taken as conflicting in any way with the duties of the Referee under Rule 12.

                + 13.1.2 If the ball in play touches any article lying on the floor.

                + Note To Referees

                + The Referee shall ensure that no articles

                + are placed on the floor by the players.

                + (G7) 13.1.3 If the striker refrains from hitting the ball owing to a reasonable fear of injuring their opponent.

                + Note To Referees

                + This shall include the case of the striker wishing to play the ball onto the back wall.

                + 13.1.4 If, in the opinion of the Referee, either player is distracted by an occurrence on or off the court.

                + 13.1.5 If, in the opinion of the Referee, a change in court conditions has affected the result of the rally.

          o 13.2 A let shall be allowed:

                + 13.2.1 If the receiver is not ready and does not attempt to return the service.

                + 13.2.2 If the ball breaks during play.

                + 13.2.3 If the Referee is asked to decide an appeal and is unable to do so.

                + 13.2.4 If an otherwise good return has been made but either the ball lodges in any part of the playing surface of the court preventing it from bouncing more than once upon the floor, or the ball goes out on its first bounce.

          o 13.3 If the striker appeals for a let under Rules 13.1 (2 to 5), in order for a let to be allowed they must have been able to make a good return. For a non-striker appeal under Rules 13.1.2, 13.1.4 and 13.1.5 this is not a requirement.

          o 13.4 No let shall be allowed under Rules 13.1.3 and 13.2.1 if the striker attempts to play the ball but may be allowed under Rules 13.1.2, 13.1.4, 13.1.5, 13.2.2, 13.2.3 and 13.2.4.

          o 13.5 The appeals requirements of Rule 13 are:

                + 13.5.1 An appeal by the player is necessary for a let to be allowed under Rules 13.1.3 (striker only), 13.1.4, 13.2.1 (striker only) and 13.2.3.

                + 13.5.2 An appeal by the player or Referee intervention without appeal is applicable to Rules 13.1.2, 13.1.5, 13.2.2 and 13.2.4.

                + 13.5.3 Where a player is struck by the ball as described in Rule 13.1.1 the Referee shall decide without appeal whether a let is to be allowed or the stroke awarded to the striker.

14. THE BALL

          o 14.1 At any time, when the ball is not in actual play, another ball may be substituted by mutual consent of the players, or on appeal by either player at the discretion of the Referee.

          o Note To Referees

            Either player or the Referee may examine the ball at any time it is not in actual play to check its condition.

          o 14 .2 If a ball breaks during play, it shall be replaced promptly by another ball.

          o Note To Referees

            The Referee shall decide whether a ball is broken.

          o 14.3 If a ball has broken during play but this has not been established, a let for the rally in which the ball broke shall be allowed if the server appeals prior to the next service or if the receiver appeals prior to attempting to return that service.

          o Note To Referees

          o (G8) If the receiver appeals prior to attempting to return service and, in the opinion of the Referee, the ball break occurred during that service, the Referee shall allow a let for that rally only, but if unsure, should allow a let for the previous rally. 14.4 The provisions of Rule 14.3 do not apply to the final rally of a game. An appeal in this case must be immediately after the rally.

          o 14.5 If a player stops during a rally to appeal that the ball is broken only to find subsequently that the ball is not broken, then that player shall lose the stroke.

15. WARM UP

          o 15.1 Immediately preceding the start of play the two players together shall be allowed on the court of play a period of five minutes for the purpose of warming up the ball to be used for the match.

          o After two and a half minutes of the warm up, the Referee shall call "Half time" and ensure that the players change sides unless they mutually agree otherwise. The Referee shall also advise when the warm up period is complete with the call of "Time".

          o An interval of up to ninety seconds shall be permitted between the end of the warm up and start of play.

          o 15.2 Where a ball has been substituted under Rule 14 or when the match is being resumed after considerable delay, the Referee shall allow the ball to be warmed up to playing condition. Play shall then resume on the direction of the Referee, or upon mutual consent of the players, whichever is the earlier.

          o Note To Referees

          o The Referee must ensure that both players warm up the ball fairly (Rules 15.1 and 15.2). An unfair warm up shall be dealt with under the provisions of Rule 17. 15.3 The ball may be warmed up by either player between the end of the five-minute warm up and start of play, between games and when their opponent is changing equipment.

            

            

            

            

16. CONTINUITY OF PLAY

After the first service is delivered play shall be continuous so far as is practical provided that:

          o 16.1 At any time play may be suspended, owing to bad light or other circumstances beyond the control of the players, for such period as the Referee shall decide. The score shall stand.

          o If another court is available when the court originally in use remains unsuitable, the match may be transferred to it if both players agree or as directed by the Referee.

          o In the event of play being suspended for the day the score shall stand unless both players agree to start the match again.

          o 16.2 An interval of ninety seconds shall be permitted between all games. Players may leave the court during such intervals but must be ready to resume play by the end of the stated time.

          o By mutual consent of the players play may recommence prior to the expiry of the ninety-second time interval.

          o (G9) 16.3 If a player satisfies the Referee that a change of equipment, clothing or footwear is necessary, the player may leave the court. The player is required to effect the change as quickly as possible and shall be allowed a period not exceeding ninety seconds for this purpose.

          o 16.4 When fifteen seconds of a permitted ninety-second time interval remain the Referee shall call "Fifteen seconds" to advise the players to be ready to resume play. At the end of this interval the Referee shall call "Time".

          o It is the responsibility of the players to be within earshot of the court to hear the calls of "Fifteen seconds" and "Time".

          o Notes To Referees

          o A. Should one player fail to be ready to resume play when "Time" is called, the Referee shall apply the provisions of Rule 17. B. Should neither player be ready to resume play when "Time" is called the Referee shall apply the provisions of Rule 17 for both players.

          o 16.5 In the event of an injury to a player the Referee shall decide if it was:

                + (G10) 16.5.1 Self-inflicted

                + 16.5.2 Accidentally contributed to or accidentally caused by their opponent

                + 16.5.3 Caused by the opponent's deliberate or dangerous play or action.

                + Notes To Referees

                + A. In all injury situations, the Referee must determine that the injury is genuine. B. In Rule 16.5.1, the Referee may allow the injured player up to three minutes to recover from the injury. This time interval may be extended at the discretion of the Referee. If additional recovery time is needed beyond that permitted by the Referee, the Referee shall require the player to continue play; or concede the game, accept the time interval and then continue play; or concede the match.

                + C. In Rule 16.5.2, the Referee must not interpret the words "accidentally contributed to" or "accidentally caused by" to include the situation where the injury to the player is as a result of that player occupying an unnecessarily close position to their opponent.

                + D. In Rule 16.5.2 the Referee shall allow reasonable time for the injured player to recover, having regard to the time schedule of the competition.

                + The injured player must by the end of this period of time resume play

                + E. In Rule 16.5.3 the Referee may, at their discretion, apply an appropriate Rule 17 penalty, except that if the injured player requires time to recover the Referee shall award the match to the injured player.

                + F. In all cases a player shall not resume play while a wound which is bleeding remains uncovered and the flow of blood continues.

                  

                  

                  

                  

          o (G11) 16.6 The Referee shall apply the provisions of Rule 17 to a player who, in their opinion, delays play unreasonably. Such delay may be caused by:

                + 16. 6.1 Unduly slow preparation to serve or to receive service.

                + 16.6.2 Prolonged discussion with the Referee.

                + 16.6.3 Delay in returning to the court, having left under the terms of Rules 15.1, 16.2 or 16.3.

17. CONDUCT ON COURT

If the Referee considers that the behaviour of a player on court could be intimidating or offensive to an opponent, official or spectator, or could in any way bring the game into disrepute, the player may be penalised.

(G12) Offences which should be dealt with under this rule include audible and visible obscenities, verbal and physical abuse, dissent to Marker or Referee, abuse of racket or ball and coaching, other than during the interval between games. Other offences include unnecessary physical contact and excessive racket swing (Rule 12.10), unfair warm up (Rule 15.2 Note To Referees), late back on court (Rule 16.4 Notes to Referees A and B), deliberate or dangerous play or action (Rule 16.5.3) and time wasting (Rule 16.6).

(G13) For these and any other offences which, in the opinion of the Referee, justify the application of this rule, one of the following penalty provisions may be applied.

                + Warning by the Referee (called a Conduct Warning)

                + Stroke awarded to opponent (called a Conduct Stroke)

                + Game awarded to opponent (called a Conduct Game)

                + Match awarded to opponent (called a Conduct Match)

                + Notes To Referees

                + A. If the Referee stops play to give a warning a let shall be allowed.

                + B. If the Referee stops a rally to award a conduct stroke then that stroke award becomes the result of the rally. If the Referee awards a conduct stroke at the conclusion of a rally, the result of the rally stands and the conduct stroke award is additional but without change of service box. A conduct stroke awarded at the end of a game shall be carried over to the next game.

                + C. If the Referee awards a game that game shall be the one in progress or the next game if one is not in progress, in which latter case the interval between games shall not apply. The offending player shall retain any points already scored in the game awarded.

18. CONTROL OF A MATCH

A match is normally controlled by a Referee, assisted by a Marker. One person may be appointed to carry out the functions of both Referee and Marker. When a decision has been made by the Referee, the Referee shall announce it to the players and the Marker shall repeat it with the subsequent score.

Notes To Officials

(G14) A. It is desirable to have separate Officials to carry out the roles of Marker and Referee.

B. Players are not permitted to request a change of Marker or Referee. The Tournament Referee has the sole right to replace a Marker or Referee before or after the commencement of a match.

19. DUTIES OF A MARKER

          o 19.1 The Marker shall call the play, followed by the score, with the server's score called first. "Fault", "Foot fault", "Not up", "Down", "Out" and "Hand-out" shall be called as appropriate, and shall repeat the Referee's decisions.

          o (G15) 19.2 If the Marker makes a call the rally shall cease.

          o Note To Markers

          o If the Marker is unsighted or uncertain no call shall be made.

          o 19.3 If play ceases and the Marker is unsighted or uncertain the Marker shall advise the players and shall call on the Referee to make the relevant decision; if the Referee is unable to do so a let shall be allowed.

          o Note To Markers

            Markers must use recognised calls, including when the rally has ceased.

20. DUTIES OF A REFEREE

          o 20.1 The Referee shall allow or disallow appeals for lets, and award strokes; make decisions where called for by the rules, including all cases when a player is struck by the ball, and for injuries; and shall decide all appeals including those against the Marker's calls or lack of calls. The decision of the Referee shall be final.

          o 20.2 The Referee shall exercise control:

                + 20.2.1 Upon appeal by one of the players, including an appeal against any specification.

                + 20.2.2 As provided for in Rules 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and19.

          o 20.3 The Referee shall not intervene in the Marker's calling of the score unless, in the opinion of the Referee, the score has been called incorrectly in which case they shall have the Marker call the correct score.

          o Note To Officials

            Both the Marker and Referee are required to record the score.

          o 20.4 The Referee shall not intervene in the Marker's calling of the play unless, in the opinion of the Referee, the Marker has made an error in stopping play or allowing play to continue, in which case the Referee shall immediately rule accordingly.

          o 20.5 The Referee is responsible for ensuring that all rules relating to time are strictly enforced.

          o 20.6 The Referee is responsible for ensuring that court conditions are appropriate for play.

          o 20.7 The Referee may award a match to a player whose opponent fails to be present on court, ready to play, within ten minutes of the advertised time of play.

G1. MAKING EVERY EFFORT

The outgoing striker is required to make every effort to clear the ball after playing their return. Their route should be on a path which allows the incoming striker direct access to the ball, provided the incoming striker has not moved into play the ball so quickly that they block the outgoing striker's exit.

However, it is equally important for the incoming striker to make every effort to get to and where possible, play the ball. If the incoming striker does not make every effort to get to the ball, then that is a significant factor in the Referee's assessment of whether or not that player could have reached the ball and made a good return.

The degree of effort that is required by the incoming striker, in order to demonstrate that they were indeed making every effort, is for the Referee to decide. Players should note that this does not give them licence to physically abuse their opponents and unnecessary physical contact will be penalised under Rules 12/17.

A Referee, however, should not refuse lets in situations where the player was clearly making every effort (albeit short of physical contact with their opponent) to get to and play the ball and had demonstrated to the Referee that they would have reached the ball.

In giving a decision the Referee must weigh up the amount of effort being made by both players. In cases where the Referee assesses that sufficient effort has not been made by either player, this should be taken into account when making the decision.

G2. TIMING OF APPEALS

The timing of an appeal on interference is important.

In the case of an appeal concerning fairview and freedom to hit the ball directly to the front wall (commonly known as "crossing the flight"), the Referee must consider the situation at the time the player could have hit the ball.

In the case of interference on backswing the appeal must be immediate, and before the player makes any attempt to play the ball. Any attempt to hit the ball after backswing interference has occurred indicates that the striker has accepted the interference and thus forfeits the right of appeal.

If in the act of playing the ball, which includes the downswing and hit, there is interference, an appeal may be allowed. If this appeal is made at the completion of the racket swing the Referee may allow a let or award a stroke if in their opinion the interference has affected the outcome of that return.

G3. METHOD OF APPEAL

The correct method of appeal in interference situations is with the words "Let please".

Other forms of appeal are sometimes used by players including a raised hand or racket, especially where communication between players and Referee is poor.

A Referee accepting any form of appeal other than the standard "Let please" must be satisfied that an appeal is actually being made (not a rally conceded), if necessary clarifying this with the player.

G4. APPEALS

If a player makes a prompt appeal because of interference and their opponent's service or return prior to that appeal subsequently goes down or out, the Referee should not consider the appeal but should rule on the service or return and award the stroke to the player

G5. CREATED INTERFERENCE

At all times a player must be allowed direct access to play the ball and the opponent, having completed their own return, must always endeavour to provide this direct access.

However, sometimes the situation arises where the opponent has caused no interference (ie. they have clearly provided the required direct access) but the player has taken an indirect route to the ball which takes them through, or very close to, the opponent's position. The plaer then appeals for a let because they have been "obstructed" in their access to the ball.

But there is no genuine reason for this indirect route. In effect the player has "created their own interference" where none otherwise existed and if the player appeals for a let they should not be allowed one. Whether the player could have made a good return is not even a consideration; in order to remain in the rally the player must get to and play the ball.

This is not to be confused with two situations where a player in attempting to extricate themselves from a position of disadvantage is denied direct access to the ball. The first is where a player is "WRONG FOOTED", and anticipates their opponent hitting the ball one way, starts moving that way, but having guessed wrongly changes direction to find their opponent in the way. In this situation a let should be allowed on appeal if they have recovered so as to show conclusively that they could have made a good return. In fact had the incoming striker been prevented from playing a winning return then they may be awarded a stroke.

Secondly, if a player plays a poor return and puts their opponent in a position of advantage they should only be given a let if, in taking the direct line to the ball for their next return, they have shown conclusively that, but for the interference, they would have been able to get to the ball.

G6. UNNECESSARY PHYSICAL CONTACT

Unnecessary physical contact is both detrimental to the game and potentially dangerous. In blatant cases the Referee should stop the rally and award the appropriate penalty accordingly. The Referee should also be aware of a player who "pushes off" their opponent. Where this has no significant effect on the opponent, then the rally should be allowed to continue and a warning given at the end of the rally.

G7. APPEALS FOR FEAR OF INJURY

When an appeal for a let has been made and there has been no interference the Referee's decision is usually "No let". However, occasionally, although interference as defined in Rule 12.2 does not exist , there may be reasonable fear of injury in which case a let should be allowed under Rule 13.1.3.

G8. BROKEN BALL

When the receiver makes an appeal prior to attempting to return the service, the Referee has discretionary power to decide whether to replay the previous rally or to allow a let in respect of the rally in which the ball was found to be broken.

G9. CHANGE OF EQUIPMENT

In order to avoid the situation of one player gaining an unfair rest interval through a change of equipment, the Referee should note that before allowing a player to leave the court to change equipment, the Referee must be satisfied that there has indeed been a material deterioration of the equipment.

The preference for another racket, or a different pair of shoes where no physical deterioration is evident, is not sufficient reason for allowing a change of equipment. The Referee should also note that although up to 90 seconds are allowed for a change of equipment players are required to carry out the change as quickly as possible.

If a player loses a contact lens or their glasses break, then following the appropriate time interval for change of equipment, they must continue play or an appropriate Rule 17 penalty will be applied.

If a player is unable to resume play because they have no alternative equipment then the Referee should award the match to the opponent.

G10. ILLNESS/INJURY ON COURT

If, during a match, a player feels ill such that they need to leave the court, they should advise the Referee who may allow them up to three minutes to recover. If extra time beyond that permitted is needed or if the Referee does not permit them recovery time, the player must concede the game, take the 90-second interval, then be ready to resume play. A player may concede only one game. If, after taking the 90-second interval, they are unable to continue play, they shall then concede the match.

If, however, a player is sick on court, so that the court conditions are such that play is prevented from continuing, then the Referee should award the match to the opponent irrespective of whether the sick player is able to continue or not (Rule 17 Conduct On Court).

Similarly, if a player suffers from a nose bleed and as a result the court conditions are impaired to the extent that they are detrimental to the match in progress, then the opponent should be awarded the match. (NB: This refers to a "natural" nose bleed rather than one caused by collision where the relevant injury rule would apply).

In all the above cases the Referee's decision with regard to court conditions is final.

Players should note that where an injury is sustained which is entirely self- inflicted, including injury caused by a player being struck by their opponent's racket when the player has occupied an unnecessarily close position to the opponent, a time interval of up to three minutes (which can be extended solely at the discretion of the Referee) may be permitted for the player to recover. After that the Referee will require the player to continue; or concede the game, accept the interval and then continue play; or concede the match.

Players should also note that irrespective of the cause of any injury they are not permitted to resume play while a wound which is bleeding is not securely covered or where blood flow continues from an uncovered wound.

G11. TIME WASTING

Time wasting represents an attempt by one player to gain an unfair advantage over their opponent. Prolonged discussion with the Referee and slow preparation to serve or receive service are particularly mentioned (Rule 16.6). Where this occurs the Referee should apply an appropriate Rule 17 penalty at the earliest opportunity.

It should be noted that while excessive ball bouncing prior to service does constitute time wasting, the server should not be considered to have served their hand out.

During game intervals the Referee is required to call "15 seconds" to indicate that the players have 15 seconds to return to court and be ready to resume play. It is the responsibility of players to be within earshot to hear the call.

Players should note that the call of "15 seconds" is advice to return to court. A player who is not ready to resume play on the call of "Time" is deliberately or otherwise gaining an unfair advantage and should be penalised under Rule 17.

G12. COACHING DURING MATCHES

Coaching of players may occur only during the interval between games. Coaching should not be taken to mean brief comments of encouragement between rallies which clearly have no effect on the continuity of play. The Referee is expected to exercise discretion in deciding between such comments and coaching a player.

The use of external communication aids is prohibited.

The Referee may stop coaching in any form during play by applying Rule 17, Conduct on Court, to the player being coached.

G13. PROGRESSION OF PENALTIES

The penalties available to the Referee under Rule 17 are:

A warning

A stroke

A game

The match

The guidelines for applying the penalties are as follows:

The first penalty imposed by the Referee for a particular offence may be at any level to suit the seriousness of the offence, ie. a warning, stroke, game or match. However, any second or subsequent penalty for the same type of offence may not be of a lesser severity than the previous penalty for that offence. Thus the Referee may award several warnings or several strokes for the same type of offence if they felt that the offence did not warrant a stronger punishment.

When issuing penalties the Referee should use the following terminology:

Conduct warning...... (player's name) for ....... (offence).

Conduct stroke......... (player's name) for....... (offence), stroke to (opponent's name)

Conduct game.......... (player's name) for ..... (offence), game to (opponent's name)

Conduct match........ (player's name) for ..... (offence), match to (opponent's name).

G14. SINGLE OFFICIAL

It may not always be possible to have two officials for a match. A single official would act as the Marker initially, but when there was an appeal they would then take on the role of the Referee and give their decision, on appeal, as the Referee.

Whilst this situation is not recommended, it does happen, and the single official should know that they act as the Marker and then on appeal, as Referee. It is not correct to say that because there is only one official there is no Referee.

G15. MARKER'S CALLS

The Marker must call to stop a rally if, in their opinion, a player has failed to deliver a good service or to make a good return.

However, if because of a service or return which was obviously not good, both players cease play without the Marker making a call, then the appropriate call of "Not up", "Down" or "Out" may be omitted.

21. PROPOSED 1997 SINGLES RULES

As many Players and Officials will know the Rules of Squash go in 4 year cycles. This is to avoid the continual amendment of Rules which has in the past caused confusion. Now no amendment may be made to the Rules within that 4 year period although this does not apply to Appendices and Official Guidelines. The current period ends on the 1st of May, 1997 and much work has been done by various Members/Bodies of the World Squash Federation and in particular by the Rules and Referees Committee.

A 1st Draft of the proposed changes was issued in July, 1995 and a Timetable made as follows:-

November 1995. WSF Seminar for discussion on proposed 1997 rules package. This will take place in Cyprus at the Annual WSF AGM and Conference.

December 1995. 2nd Draft including amendments agreed upon at Seminar will be sent to all WSF Member Nations.

January-June 1966. Consideration of proposed draft by WSF Member Nations and submission in writing of any proposed amendments.

July 1996. Submission of proposed draft by WSF together with written submissions and Rules and Referees Committee Recommendations.

August 1996. Circulation of final draft to WSF Member Nations.

September/October 1996. WSF Annual General Meeting discussion of final draft and approval of the rules package.

1st May 1997. New rules become effective.

Major Changes

The following are the proposals made in the first draft.

The World Game. It is proposed that the name of the game be World, rather than international, to conform with the name of the organisation, World Squash Federation. Therefore the rules would become the Rules of the World Singles Game and of the World doubles Game.

Injury. The injury situation has become such that the committee believes a separate rule is necessary. Injury has in the past always been a part of Continuity of Play, currently Rule 16. Rather than create an additional rule number, the committee has moved Let from Rule 7 to a definition (with the advent of single service squash, Let has become a rule of two lines). Continuity of Play fits conveniently at the Rule 7 position and Injury becomes Rule 16.

Non Gender Specific. The rules have been made non gender specific, i.e. there are no longer any he/him/his words (and no note to say that this also means she/her). A great deal of minor wording change was involved to effect this. Although, overall, there are probably a few more words in the rules with this change, the committee believes that this more than justifies the result which must help to promote squash as a male and female sport.

Refereeing Systems. Without any definite decision on a preferred alternative refereeing system to the standard one, the committee has created an appendix to permit further experimentation with the three systems involved and will provide brief descriptions of these systems for the appendix.

(Note by HTML writer. The three systems referred to are a) Three Judge original system, b) Three Judge modified system and c) Two Judge system. Details are not presently generally available).

Dropped Object. With some safeguards, a Canadian proposal has been adopted to stipulate that a player who drops anything on the floor of the court where a rally is in progress shall lose the stroke. For safety's sake the Referee will now always stop play if seeing anything fall to the floor of the court, whether from player, spectator or any other source. This situation has been a "grey" area in squash rules and the proposed rule will both tighten up and clarify the circumstances of a dropped object.

(Note by HTML writer. The new proposed Rule 7.7 covers this but does say "other than a player's racket". If this occurs it is proposed that the rally is allowed to proceed as the player dropping the racket is already at an disadvantage).

Conclusion by HTML writer. If you have any constructive criticisms or amendments to any of the above or, indeed, any other rules changes you feel are worthy of consideration should write to your Rules Committee of your National Association. Addresses of most of these Associations can be found in these pages.