Use of Skype or Zoom.

[Buddyboy1]

I am looking to see if BBO or ACBL has a position re using Skype or Zoom during play. I understand Zoom has been set up and used by some clubs for online play to significantly enhance the enjoyment of play but I am having trouble finding the official positions of BBO and ACBL on this issue. I would appreciate being referred to specific web pages where they address the issue. The goal is to see if our local ACBL club can add Zoom or Skype to play. Thank you.

[barmar]

Except for tournaments hosted by the usernames BBO and ACBL, BBO does not set the rules for play at tables. It's up to the tourney or table host to decide what's appropriate for their games.

 

If you're talking about an ACBL Virtual Club game, I think the decision is between your club management and ACBL.

[mycroft]

The only official comment that I can find is this from the Online play Appendix O:

 

"When playing with a Zoom (or the equivalent) screenmate follow up questions are permitted regardless of which player made the call or play."

 

So there is at least a concept for doing "online screens" games (probably more for faster verbal responses and over-the-shoulder cameras to minimize certain forms of cheating).

 

Your club could definitely do it if they wanted to, but you would want to be very careful about how. "We're a happy zoom family, but if the opponents aren't on the call, we'll just tell partner what to do"...

 

Of course, if you want an official opinion (which may not necessarily be *the* official opinion), you could always email Memphis Horn Lake (club@), or contact the VABCL-assist TDs, who may know of something already set up/in the works.