Rotating Boards - Protocol

1. From 1st October 2005, you must play on a rotating board, if available.  If the board is “wobbly” or otherwise inadequate, you may consult the Tournament Director (TD).
2. Each rotating board will be fixed at a set table for the entire tournament.  Players who bring a rotating board are guaranteed all their games on a rotating board, not necessarily their own.  Their name will appear on the tournament game list as Joe Blow@R, where R designates a table with a rotating board.  All rotating boards should be placed on the tables at the head of each section - e.g. tables 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 etc. for the first section, tables 12, 13, 14, 15 etc. for the second section.  At the time of registration each player with a rotating board must check with the TD to ascertain where their rotating board should be placed.  In each tournament round the computer draw will then allocate each of these players to an appropriate table with a rotating board.
3. Only use tiles approved by the TD - this ensures that all tiles are of good quality.  It also prevents the situation where both sets of tiles at a table are the same colour.
4. There are no rules regarding where you sit when using a rotating board.  This means you do not have to sit opposite your opponent if you find it easier to sit at right-angles.  Under rules introduced on October 1st 2005, you may draw a tile to determine where you sit in relation to the board.
5. When playing a game, only rotate the board in your turn.  After you have had your move, leave the board alone - your opponent may choose not to move the board at all (ie play upside down).  We all like to be helpful, but it can actually prove quite distracting if you spin a board when your opponent is concentrating on it.
6. Playing tip - always turn the board towards you before accepting your opponent’s move. This makes it easier to spot disallowed words such as “WA”, “OT” or “LE” when reading upside down, because these are all good words when played the other way round.

Queries regarding rules should be firstly addressed to the relevant State Committee.  Suggestions re changes to rules will then be forwarded to the National Rules Coordinator by the State Rules Representative, as appropriate.