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Paul Kovac	See if you can Stump the Ump... E-mail questions to Paul Kovac - your friendly on-line USATT umpire. Please note: Questions which have answers that are easily found by consulting the rules may not merit a reply.

Q: I see players using inverted rubber that is so old they use it now as anti. The rubber is in some cases bumpy and the friction on them varies. Would the rubber be considered legal? Also is it legal to use non-USTTA approved rubbers in UStta tournaments? (such as Yung 638)

- submitted by Brasil1974@aol.com

A: The old age does not automatically disqualify a rubber from its original legality, as long as its physical integrity is acceptable and the requirement for flatness is fulfilled. Bumpy rubbers, old or new are unacceptable. The umpire is the judge of that, and when he/she is unsure, he/she will ask the referee to make the final judgment. Only USATT approved equipment may be used at USATT sanctioned tournaments.

You will be a much happier player and observer of Table Tennis when you know the rules. Contact Margaret Smith at the USATT headquarters (1-719-578-4583), do yourself a favor, and buy a copy of the ITTF Rule Book, newest edition.

- answered by Paul Kovac - your friendly on-line USATT umpire