JavaJoe

Passing an unusual bid, just because they don't understand it. Not understanding "pre-emption bids". Not bidding them high enough or raising them thinking that partner is bidding for strength. Not looking at what an unknown opponent plays. Play the simplistic version of the two of you. Don't trot out Leibonsow (sp) if you're an expert without knowing if your partner knows what it means. BTW, I used to play a lot of bridge, but then my job got in the way, so after about an 8 year layoff, I am trying to re-learn the game. I say that just to say that I was playing in a large tournament one time (I think the Nationals) and a bid sounded strange to me and I asked the opponent if that was Leibonsow and he gave me a little grin and said "yes" When I looked at his name tag, it was THE Leibonsow whom I was playing against. (Red Faced Moment!)