1. Tournament Format
• The tournament will be double elimination (or single elimination, depending on the number of teams).
• Matches will be played in a best-of-three games format, with games played to 11 points, win by 2 points.
• Teams must consist of two players each. A substitute is allowed only in case of injury (subject to tournament organizer approval).
• A coin toss (or paddle spin) will determine the first serve or choice of side.

2. Self-Officiating & Fair Play
• Since there are no referees, all players must call their own lines, faults, and rule violations honestly.
• If there is a disagreement, teams should replay the point to maintain fairness.
• If a dispute cannot be resolved, the tournament director will make the final decision.

3. Court & Equipment
• Standard pickleball court dimensions (20’ x 44’).
• USAPA-approved paddles and balls must be used.
• Players must wear appropriate athletic footwear (no open-toed shoes).

4. Serving Rules
• The serving team must call the score loudly before serving.
• The serve must be underhand, with the ball contacted below waist level.
• The serve must be made from behind the baseline and land in the opponent’s diagonal service court.
• Only one serve attempt is allowed, except for let serves (if the ball clips the net and lands in the correct service box).

5. Scoring & Game Rules
• Only the serving team can score points.
• Games are played to 11 points, win by 2.
• Players switch sides after each game.
• In the event of a third game, teams switch sides when one team reaches 6 points.

6. Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen) Rules
• Players cannot volley the ball while standing inside the non-volley zone (7-foot area near the net).
• Players may step into the kitchen only after the ball has bounced.

7. Faults & Disputes
• A fault occurs when:
• The ball is hit out of bounds.
• The ball doesn’t clear the net.
• The ball is volleyed before it bounces once on each side (Double Bounce Rule).
• A player volleys the ball while standing inside the kitchen.
• Self-calls apply: Players must call their own faults and line calls fairly.
• Disputes: If players disagree on a call, the point should be replayed.

8. Player Conduct & Sportsmanship
• Players must display good sportsmanship and respect opponents.
• No profanity, arguing, or aggressive behavior is allowed.
• Since there are no officials, players must settle disputes amicably.
• Repeated violations of fair play may result in forfeiting the match.

9. Timeouts & Breaks
• Each team is allowed one 30-second timeout per game.
• Injury timeouts may be taken as needed but should not exceed 5 minutes.

10. Forfeits & Delays
• Teams must be ready to play within 10 minutes of their scheduled match time.
• A team failing to show up in time will forfeit the match.
• Excessive delays (stalling, long breaks) may result in a warning or point penalty.

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Final Notes

Since the tournament is self-officiated, it relies on honesty, fair play, and good sportsmanship. The goal is to have fun, compete fairly, and enjoy the game!