The VCC recognizes that the playing atmosphere for our members is of primary importance.
In that regard, there are different views on slow play. While some push for the most efficient game possible with the least waiting time, others feel that to rush anyone is inappropriate. Also, we must consider that as a club with aging players, with age speed can slow down and it is important for those that start slowing down that they still feel welcome in our club.
During the games, directors should periodically announce the importance of leading first and put dummy down first, before entering their own personal score and that there should be no discussing of hands before finishing all boards in the round.
The role of the director on this resolution is a delicate one. The key for action is to identify those whose slow play regularly cause inconvenience for others. The director should take the following action until improvement is seen:
1st - Encourage those with slow play to catch up by walking to the table and politely but firmly request that they catch up. A calm and reassuring tone is very important. Avoid being abrasive or demeaning. Be careful to do this to the right pair, not in situations where others caused them to be late.
2nd - Privately meet with the offending pair or individual and request that they improve on their speed of play. Examples of when they might do better are: not to enter their private score if they are already late, or engage in a conversation about the hand. On the other hand, if they have to visit the restroom often or can not move well or have other physical problems then we must be sensitive to those problems.
3rd - If the slow play persists, then a penalty of ¼ board is appropriate. Penalty is to be assessed only after steps 1 and 2. Directors are to give due consideration to the player's physical ability to do better.
Directors need to manage the clock to not end a round early if someone has gone to the restroom or anyone is still playing. If several tables are still playing, stop the clock until the field catches up.
July 10, 2009