Court Etiquette

We’ve outlined these principles to ensure that playing tennis at STC is enjoyable, respectful, and inclusive for all.

SOCIAL TENNIS ETIQUETTE

• The Set Coordinator is solely responsible for creating sets.
  Please do not change sets or make requests.

• When the bell rings, sets have been organised.
  You may then check the whiteboard to see your court and playing group.

• Only positive feedback to the Set Coordinator is welcome and appreciated.

• If playing with a visitor or new member, please introduce yourself and help them feel welcome.

• If you're finishing for the day, draw a line through your name tag.

• Members may choose to play casually instead of joining social sets.
  You may politely ask if they’d like to join, but do not pressure or harass them.

• Social tennis includes players of all abilities.
  Expect to play with a variety of partners and opponents. Please respect the Set Coordinator’s efforts.

• Be mindful of the standard of play in your set.
  Adjust your game to suit the group and ensure everyone enjoys their time on court.

• If you have ongoing concerns about the sets you're placed in, please speak with the Captain’s Team, not the Set Coordinator.

• When the bell sounds to end a set, finish the point and leave the court promptly.

• At the end of your set, leave the balls next to the net post.

ON-COURT ETIQUETTE

• Be respectful to all players, regardless of ability.
  We aim to create a welcoming environment for everyone.

• Discrimination, racism, or violent behaviour will not be tolerated.
  Offenders may be asked to leave immediately and could be subject to the three-strike disciplinary system.

• Always act in line with the club’s Code of Conduct. Offenders may be subject to the three-strike disciplinary system.

• Call the score before each point when serving, stating your score first.

• Collect and return balls on your side of the net to the server, ideally along the ground.

• If a stray ball enters your court, stop play immediately and replay the point.

• When retrieving or returning a ball to another court, wait until their point is finished.

• Avoid walking behind courts during play.
  Use an alternate route, especially during pennants or competitive matches.

• Do not dispute line calls once made.

• Avoid excessive grunting, shouting, or racket abuse—these are considered unsportsmanlike.

• At the end of a match, thank your opponents with a handshake or racket tap.

• Offensive or bullying behaviour is unsportsmanlike and will not be tolerated. Offenders may be subject to the three-strike disciplinary system.

CONOR O’HARA
CLUB CAPTAIN