Disabled Competition/Wheelchair Rules

21. DISABLED COMPETITION

------------------------------------------------------------------------ 21.1 Disabled table tennis players are divided into ten divisions or classes using a functional classification system. 21.2 Classes one to five compete in wheelchairs and classes six to ten play standing. 21.3 Separate events may be held for each class and sex or various combinations may be used. 21.4 For more information on classification of disabled athletes, contact the USATT Disabled Players Committee. 21.5 Standing disabled players follow all standard rules; there are a few modifications for wheelchair play. WHEELCHAIR RULES ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 21.6 The table shall allow access to wheelchairs without obstructing player's legs and shall allow access to two wheelchairs for doubles matches (no cross bars between end legs) 21.7 The court length may be reduced, but should not be less an 8 meters long and must be enclosed by surrounds. 21.8 A service in singles shall be as in Law 7 except that a let shall be called if in service the ball: 21.8.1 Leaves the table by either of the receiver's side lines (on one or more bounces) or 21.8.2 On bouncing on the receiver's side returns in the direction of the net or 21.8.3 Comes to the rest on the receiver's side of the playing surface. 21.9 However, if the receiver strikes the ball before it crosses a side line or takes a second bounce on his side of the playing surface, the service shall be considered good and no let shall be called. 21.10 Class 1 and 2 players are not required to project the ball upward from the palm of the free hand. Players in these classes may hold the ball and project it upward in any manner. Regardless of the method, no spin may be imparted to the ball and the ball still must rise at least 6 inches from the hand. 21.11 Responsibility still rests with the server to serve so that the legality of the serve can be checked by the umpire. 21.12 During play, a player may touch the playing surface with the free hand, only to restore balance after striking the ball (provided the playing surface is not moved). 21.13 The playing surface shall not be used as a support with the free hand while playing the ball. 21.14 The footrests or the feet touching the floor during play shall result in the loss of a point. 21.15 In team and class singles events, no part of the body above the knees may be attached to the chair, as this could improve balance. Below knees strapping is allowed. 21.16 Should a player require some strapping or binding for medical reasons this should be noted on their classification card and will be taken into account when assessing the player's class. 21.17 In open events, strapping and other aids are allowed. WHEELCHAIR DOUBLES ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 21.18 Service shall be as above for singles play, but the ball may leave the table by the side line of the receiver's right half-court. 21.19 The server shall first make a good service and the receiver shall make a good return, and thereafter either player of a pair may return the ball. 21.20 During play, no part of a player's wheelchair shall cross the vertical plane of an imaginary extension of the table's center line. If it does, that pair shall lose a point.