Section 11 – Time-out Rules

11.A. Normal Time-outs:

A player or team is entitled to 2 time-outs per game; each time-out period shall last only 1 minute. Then play must be resumed or another time-out must be called by either side. Time-outs may never be called once the ball is in play or the server has started the serving motion. For games to 21 points, each team is allowed 3 time-outs per game.

11.B. Injury Time-outs:

If a player is injured during a match, that player may call an injury time-out. The referee must agree that an injury did take place and that the player is not just stalling to rest or recuperate. If the referee agrees, then that player will be allowed no more than 15 minutes of rest during the “injury time-out.” If the player cannot resume play after the 15-minute “injury time-out” period, the match shall be awarded to the opponents.

11.C. Equipment Time-outs:

Players are expected to keep all clothing and equipment in good playable condition and are expected to use regular time-outs and time between games for adjustments and replacement of equipment. If a player or team is out of time-outs and the referee determines that an equipment change or adjustment is necessary for fair and safe continuation of the match, the referee may award an equipment time-out not to exceed 2 minutes.

11.D. Between Games Time-out:

Between games time-outs shall not exceed 2 minutes between all games of a match.

11.E. Postponed Games:

Any game postponed by referees shall be resumed with the same score and remaining time-outs as when postponed.

USAPA Comment: When a time-out is called, the referee may request that all players place their paddles on the correct court and the ball be placed under the serving player’s paddle.