Scrabble NSW Variations to National Rules of Tournament Play

Last Updated 14th June 2009
The following variations to the ASPA Rules of Tournament play apply to all tournaments approved by Scrabble (NSW):-

Rule 2.1

Rule 2.1 States: If at least one player wants to use a time clock, it must be used, subject to availability and the agreement of the Tournament Director.

NSW Variation to Rule 2.1 (updated by committee 8/03)

Players taking part in their first, second or third tournament do not have to use a time clock if they are playing in Recreation Division


Part 3 - Scoring

Rule 3.1

Rule 3.1 in part states: If they continue to not scores and totals, call for the Tournament Director.

New NSW Rule to come after 3.1

A recount of individual moves can be requested by either player at games end. The requester's clock should be running during the recount.


Rule 11.7

Rule 11.7 in part states "The loser must arrange the tiles in a 10x10 square "

NSW Variation to 11.7 [pending ratification as at 28/5/2004]

It is the responsibility of both players to ensure that tiles are reorganized on either the anchored rotating board or an ASPA (NSW) supplied board in a 10x10 grid in preparation for the next game. Anchored boards (identified by a butterfly sticker) may not be moved from the table on which they are first placed.


Addition at Rule 11.6a

Variation agreed by committee on 27/10/2007

At the point where the majority of other games have been completed and one player has gone five minutes over time, the Tournament Director may, at his or her discretion, stop the game


Addition to Rule 12.4

Variation agreed by committee on 20/06/2009

An observer may watch the plays of a player provided the observer obtains permission from both players and the observer sits behind the player being observed so that both players racks are not viewable. No communication can take place between the observer and either player, and if the observer leaves the table, partway through he/she may not return to resume observing.