Tournament Preliminaries and Regulations

There are some of the preliminary things that should be settled before a match begins. Both players should inspect the equipment to be used prior to the first game. If there is any problem found in any of the equipment then players are allowed to request them to be replaced. The director can replace the equipment used any time when the situation calls for a replacement of backgammon equipment.

Before the match begins, players should agree on the direction that the checkers will take when moving, who plays which color of checkers, and seating location. Depending on the backgammon tournament, players may decide on these things using dice rolls.

Players should be mindful of their scheduled matches in a backgammon tournament. Those who are not able to keep with the schedules may be penalized according to the tournament rules. You should take note not only of the time of the match but also the appointed place for the match.

There will usually be scheduled tournament areas that are designated for each match. Players should respect not only their opponent's time but the time of the officials as well. Each match and each game should begin promptly according to schedule. Take note that there may be recesses in between games so you should check whether a tournament allow a recesses and how much time is allowed for them. On really important games, directors may allow longer recess times.

Backgammon players who are not able to arrive on time are usually penalized. Points are awarded to the opponent at times depending on how many minutes is a player late for a game or match. When a player is absent for a match that player usually forfeits the match and loses to the opponent. You may wish to consult with the tournament director and ask for consent for special situations and circumstances not covered by the tournament rules but don't expect that every request will be granted. A tournament director has the power to excuse a player for inconsistencies regarding the time and schedule.

As an added note on the schedule of matches and respect for another player's time, players should make their moves at a very reasonable pace. Opening plays are almost automatic being made quickly but crucial mid-game and end game plays may require a bit more time. If a player seems to take too long when making moves the director may instruct that clocks to be used to regulate the pace of a match and a member of the staff to monitor the match as it progresses.

These are preliminary items that need to be established before a match begins. Backgammon players should become familiar with these as they are part of the usual routine in a tournament.