RULES CASE STUDY
Case Study S-6
Chris, who is right-handed, stands near the 3-foot drive service line on the left side of the court and hits a drive serve behind himself into the left side wall. He has been trying to hit the crack for an ace. Although he is standing legally within the 17-foot drive serve area his serve does not always hit the crack. More frequently the ball pops up behind him and the receiver holds up his swing (safety) rather than hitting Chris with the ball. What is the proper call?
Answer: Chris has decided to gamble on hitting the crack for an ace serve. In this case he has also assumed responsibility for getting out of the way if the serve does not crack out. If he hits the crack, it is obviously an ace, but if it pops up and he is in the way – causing the receiver to hit him or else hold up to keep from hitting him – it is a Penalty hinder. See Rule 3.15(a)

Fran Davis Camp
October 1-3, 2010
Triton Sports Center
San Antonio, TX
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