Rules for being a good partner
By Marty
(Extract from Bulletin of NABC – Summer – 2005 -
I have always believed that your attitude toward your partner is as
important as your technical skill at the game. –
Before you sit
down to discuss what you are playing, you should start your partnership off on the
right note. Half the battle of winning is being a good partner. Always observe
the following:
1. Do not give
lessons – unless you are being paid to do so. According to an evening paper, there are only five real authorities on
bridge in this country. Odd how often one gets one of them as a partner. Punch
(British magazine).
2. Never say
anything to your partner unless you would want him to say the same to you. If you
are unsure whether your partner would want you to say something, don’t.
3. Never “result”
(criticize your partner for a normal action just because it did not work this time).
4. Unless your intent is to clear up amisunderstanding,
avoid discussing the hand just played. If you cannot resist, be discreet.
5. Remember that
you and your partner are on the same side.
6. Do not forget
that your partner wants to win just as much as you do.
7. If you feel
the urge to be nasty, sarcastic,critical
or loud –excuse yourself and take a walk.
8. When there is
time between hands, do not discuss bridge.
9. When you want
to consult another player about a disaster, ask about your hand, not your partner’s.
10. Do not ever
criticize or embarrass your partner in front of others.
11. Remember that
bridge is only a cardgame.
Re-printed, with permission of the author,from Points Schmoints!
Bergen’s Winning Bridge Secrets.