Distraction

Interpretation

This avoidable hinder should be called against a player who attempts to move in very close to an opponent in an attempt to cause a distraction.

1). Talking During the Rally. Aside from appeals and rally ending calls, there is no need for talking during a rally except in doubles, when the team on the offense is allowed to briefly communicate which partner is to hit, or not to hit, the ball.

Interpretation

In doubles, allowable “brief communication” shall be construed to be any reasonable variation of “yours,” “mine,” or “leave it,” consisting of very few syllables.

Any other talking during the rally by any player frequently affects the play of the opponent(s). If the referee determines that such talking is a distraction, an avoidable hinder shall be assessed. In order to deter unnecessary conflict between opponents on this issue, referees should be liberal in assessing this avoidable hinder.

Sometimes an offensive player may make a call that is otherwise reserved for the referee, such as “short serve” “out,” or “hinder.” Play shall immediately be stopped and the referee shall consider this to be an appeal for concurrence. If the appeal is upheld, the player’s call shall stand. Otherwise, the player shall be assessed an avoidable distraction hinder and lose the rally. Under no circumstances may a player say anything while an opponent is playing the ball. Of course, players can make calls against themselves at any time, such as double bounces, wrist balls, etc.