The Shuffler has arranged with FSA State Tournament Director Glenn Monroe to answer your questions relative to The Rules!! Thus the title: “What’s The Rule?”

Unless otherwise stated, the most recent rules and regulations of the Florida Shuffleboard Association shall be used to answer all questions.

1. My opponent was wearing ear buds while playing in a tournament. Isn’t that a violation of the “no electronic devices” rule?
   
   No. In October 2010, Rule C.26 was changed from “No electronic equipment (cell phones, etc.) allowed on court” to “The unauthorized use of cell phones is prohibited on the courts.” While there may have been some question before the 2010 rule change, currently there is no prohibition on the use of ear buds, or any electronic devices other than cell phones, unless there is a reasonable cause to believe that they are being used for improper communication (coaching).
   
   
2. I understand that a “hook shot” is not allowed but I am not sure what a hook shot is. Please explain.
   
   A hook shot occurs when the angle or direction of the shot changes after the disc begins to move and before it leaves the cue. Rule C.17 requires that, “The shot must be delivered in a straight line with a continuous forward motion of the cue and disc.” The purpose of the rule is to prevent a player from gaining an angle on their shot that would allow them to reach a spot on the other end of the court that could not otherwise be hit.