The Code

"So what …. who cares … it was a good promotion for the sport …" are some of the more prominent examples of feedback I have gotten from my blog "Mixed Signals," in which I suggested that the Chris Evert & Mike Greenberg match was fixed. No denials, just rationalizations for why it was permissible to tamper with the draw. I wonder why If it was the right thing to do, then why not go public? Machiavelli would be so proud.

In contrast to this egregious disregard for "The Code," the Eastern Tennis Association sent out e-mails to parents of junior players last week explaining that many spectators at area tournaments have been violating the Code of Behavioral Conduct. Enforcement of these rules is a positive step for junior tennis. Coaches and parents should have a very low profile at tournaments and make every attempt at keeping their business interests, egos and emotions under control so that the players can focus on playing.

"The Code" is a set of standards that make tennis fair, valid and fun. It is more then just a set of rules, it is an ideal that embodies the values of the sport’s honesty and integrity. It should not be a unilateral rule however, especially one which excludes the rulemakers.