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What You Need To Know . . . 

Prior to playing in a Sanctioned Bridge Game, it's important to be familiar with and respect the following Club and ACBL general rules and policies.  

Courtesy

We apply the ACBL Zero Tolerance Policy.

"Every club has that player, the really wonderful, witty, intelligent person that everybody enjoys conversing with unless the topic is bridge. The player who immediately becomes unbearable when the boards hit the table. The player who snarls at partner and intimidates the opponents with harsh words and bad behavior. The player who eventually has the director called to his table."

The purpose of the Zero Tolerance Policy is to create a more pleasant atmosphere for play.  We are attempting to eradicate unacceptable behavior to make the game more enjoyable for all.  Below are some examples of commendable behavior:

  • Being a good host or guest by greeting others in a friendly manner.

  • Praising the bidding or play of the opponents.

The following are examples that will not be tolerated:

  • Badgering, rudeness, insinuations, intimidation, profanity, threats or violance.

  • Negative comments concerning opponents or partners play or bidding.

  • Constant and gratuitous lessons and analyses at the table.

  • Arguing with a Director's ruling.

If a player at 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 are specifically prohibited by Law 74A.  Law 91A gives the Director the authority to assess disciplinary penalties.​

Slow Play

Sanctioned duplicate bridge is a timed event.  Slow play, especially habitual slow play, is a violation of ACBL law and subject to penalty.  When a pair has fallen behind, it is incumbent on them to make up the time lost as quickly as possible.  All players are expected to make a concerted effort to catch up when they have fallen behind, whether it was their fault or not.  Players are expected to be generally aware of time used and remaining, whether a clock is visible or not.  There is an expectation that a Director may penalize a pair who exhibit slow play.  If an opening lead is not on the table when the round is called, the hand cannot be played.

Convention Cards

Each player must have a completed convention card.  Both cards for partnerships must be identical.  Failure to have identical cards may result in penalties. 

ACBL Convention Card

How To Complete the ACBL Convention Card

Convention Charts

ACBL Convention Charts show what conventions are allowed at tournaments, bracketed events and Club games.  The Open Chart is approved for aall games at BCNC with the exception of not allowing Psych bids.  Click on the link for the Basic, Basic+, Open, Open+ charts and definitions:  ACBL Convention Charts

Alert Procedure

Bids in Red on the Convention Card require an Alert.  Bids in Blue on the Convention Card require an announcement.  ACBL Alert Procedure

Appeals

BCNC Policy does not provide for an Appeals Committee.  The Director in Charge shall hear and rule.

Emergency Contacts

BCNC is happy to maintain an emergency contact for you.  Please fill out the Contact Us form below.  Put "Emergency Contact Info" in the subject line.  Write your name and your emergency contact details in the email.

Check Cashing

Checks may be written for the game fee amount only. Third party checks are not accepted.

Pet Policy

Only certified service dogs are permitted.

Directors, Mentors and Volunteers

BCNC is has many opportunities for you to participate.  Directors are compensated.  Mentors are volunteers and always appreciated for help in Supervised Play and Partnership Coaching.  There are many volunteer opportunities if you just want to get involved somehow.  Please use the Contact Us Form below and put "Director", "Mentor" or "Volunteer" in the subject line and someone will be in touch with you.

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