Court Etiquette

While Tennis has its official rules, we would like to remind you that it’s also important to be mindful of court etiquette, a set of unofficial rules that signify good tennis sportsmanship. We encourage you to take the time to read and follow these guidelines.
Tennis is a social game, a game involving simple politeness and consideration. Everyone will enjoy the game so much more if these guidelines are observed.

Here are some etiquette guidelines that all members and guests should follow:

• Talk quietly when standing near tennis courts that are in use.
• Swearing or disrespectful language is not acceptable.
• Appropriate attire must be worn on court; shirts must be worn at all times, tennis shoes only to avoid footwear damage to the courts, and no jeans.
• Never walk behind a court when a point is still in play. Wait until the point is over and then cross as fast as possible.
• If people are already on your court, don’t disturb them until their time is up.
• Always come prepared. Bring not only balls, but towels and water to drink when it is hot.
• When you’re ready to play, put racket covers, ball cans, jackets etc., out of everyone’s way.
• To see who serves first, spin your racket or toss a coin. If you win the toss, the choice is yours. You may serve first, or you may choose to receive first or to pick which end of the court you want to start playing on. As a third choice you may make your opponent choose first.
• When sending balls back to a neighbouring court, sent over to the back of the court. Never send them back while play is in progress.
• Offer to bring new balls or organise a system to decide who brings the balls.
• Retrieve balls for your partner and your opponent.
• Do not criticise your partner or opponent, be positive and offer encouragement instead.
• Call your own lines and let your opponent hear the call. If the ball is good say nothing and play on.
• If you are unsure or didn’t see the ball clearly, then the ball was in and must be given in the opponent’s favour.
• Always respect the line calls of your opponent.
• If there is a disagreement, offer a let. Replay the point even if it was a second service.
• Collect all balls after playing and leave courts in a safe and tidy condition. Dispose of any rubbish in the bins on court or in the clubhouse, and recycle unwanted balls in the clubhouse ball boxes.
• Close the gates when you enter or leave the courts. When leaving ensure that the gates are locked behind you.

ALTC Management Committee