Handling Stray Balls with Courtesy
Stray balls can happen to any player, and knowing how to handle these situations keeps everyone focused and safe on the court.
If Your Ball Rolls Onto a Neighbor's Court:
Wait until the point on their court is finished before signaling or retrieving the ball. A simple hand wave or an "excuse me" when it's convenient lets the neighboring players know you'll be retrieving your ball.
If they pick up your ball first, a friendly "thank you" shows appreciation. Avoid walking onto their court until they acknowledge you, as this respects their space and playtime.
If a Neighbor's Ball Rolls Onto Your Court:
If a ball rolls into your play area during a point, immediately call a "let" (or "stop") to pause play, allowing everyone to stay safe and focused.
After the point is stopped, return the ball safely to the other court by rolling it back along the ground rather than tossing or hitting it, which ensures accuracy and prevents unintentional disruptions.
If the neighboring player is closer to the ball, allow them to retrieve it instead. This small gesture shows respect for their space and allows for smoother gameplay for both sides.
Being mindful of these moments fosters a respectful, enjoyable playing environment for all involved.