Poker Code of Conduct and Proper Etiquette
A “Code of Conduct” is a set of rules outlining the responsibilities and proper practices for an individual. In regards to poker, the “Code of Conduct” is a list of rules that preserve the integrity of the game, and the rules apply to players and game providers equally.
Etiquette is a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within group. In regards to poker, “Etiquette” refers to the respectful behavior players should show towards each other.
The “Code of Conduct” is law. Etiquette guidelines are merely rules. By knowingly breaking the rules or laws of a poker game you show disrespect to the venue, the players, and yourself. Whatever your poker playing style or table image – how you behave at a poker table matters. These are the guidelines to help you conduct yourself with respect.
We will attempt to maintain a pleasant environment for all, but ultimately we are not responsible for the conduct of any player.
Code of Conduct
The following is the official poker code of conduct. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with all the rules as some are obvious but some are not. Please take note of the following, violation of these rules can result in being ejected from the game, the forfeiture of all poker chips, and being permanently banned.
• One Player to a hand
Conspiring with another player (or the dealer) constitutes dishonest conduct.
• Zero Tolerance for verbal abuse/threats
Civil language and polite conversation are acceptable in poker, a gentleman’s game. Vulgarity is a violation of poker etiquette. Threats are a violation of the code of conduct and can result in ejection.
• Disturbing the peace
Shouting, arguing, extreme physical body language are in violation of this rule. Inappropriate physical contact is strictly forbidden.
• Vandalizing – Playing cards and other property. Throwing, tearing, bending, or marking any playing card-forbidden. Defacing or destroying the property that is related to the poker game or belongs to a player or staff member – forbidden.
Kontenders will attempt to maintain a pleasant environment for all our players, but we are not responsible for the conduct of any player.
Etiquette
The following guidelines are posted to educate all parties’ rules of etiquette. Take note of the following actions which are improper, and grounds for warning, or ejection:
• Do not play or act out of turn.
Betting and folding out of turn is rude. Poker is game of information, acting out of turn can confuse both players and the dealer. Additionally, this can be mistaken as collusion between you and another player.
• Do not splash the pot.
Throwing your chips into the middle of the pot is rude. The dealer has to make sure the player has put in the required amount of chips, because bets must be matched exactly. There are no discounts in poker, and if you are not matching the stated bet, then you are cheating.
• Do not agree to check it down when another player has money in the pot.
This is collusion, even if it is not malicious. Even when playing friendly poker, it is more important to play poker than to be friends. Goldfish is for playing. Poker is a competition of pride and money.
• Talking about cards during a hand in play.
It is rude to fold your cards face up. It is rude to discuss your cards or the board whether or not you are in the current hand. It is rude to read another players hand at the showdown, this the job of the dealer, and you – the player – are not a professional.
• Affecting the actions of another player.
It is rude to make a statement or take action that influences the decisions players still involved in the pot. This includes telling another player to show their cards.
• String Betting
Saying “Call” followed by “Raise” is not a legal move in poker. Every – EVERY – cinematic portrayal of poker like this is incorrect. A player cannot say ‘I call your bet…and raise you ‘x.’ They must say “I raise.” String bets confuse players as to whether the player is calling or raising, so they are not allowed.
• Improper Chip Stacking
Chips should be stacked with the largest denominations clearly displayed. Players who stack their chips to disguise their chip stacks, to hide cards, or impede the dealer can face a penalty.
• Stalling the game.
It is rude to make others wait for shit’s and giggles.
• Folding but not folding.
If you fold please release your cards low to the table and at a moderate speed. It is rude to muck your cards with the intention of sharing them with another player or to attack the dealer with your cards. Kontenders reserves the right to eject you from the poker game for not complying with the above.
