Remember the Beltloops are for the scout doing their best to learn about the sport or academic activity, and by putting the new techniques to practice with fellow scouts, in their community, or working with an adult.

1. Explain the rules of table tennis to your leader or adult partner.

2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing table tennis skills.

3. Participate in a table tennis game.

Scoring The first player or team that scores 21 points wins the game. When both players have a score of 20 or more, the winner must win by two points. When both players have scored 20 points (a deuce game), they must change serves after each new point is scored.

A point is scored when the opponent:

• Misses the ball.

• Hits the ball into the net.

• Moves the table by bumping it during play.

• Touches the net with his racket or body.

• Lets the ball bounce twice on his side before hitting it.

• Makes a bad serve.

• Hits the ball before it has bounced on his half of the table.

• Touches the top of the table with his free hand.

• Lets the ball hit his body before he hits it with his racket.

• Hits the ball off the table.

Sometimes your point will be interrupted. This is called a let, and you will have to play the point over. You should call a let when:

• Someone gets in your way and keeps you from hitting the ball.

• There is a sudden loud noise that bothers you.

• In a tournament, someone else's ball bounces into your court.

You must call a let when it happens. Do not wait until your point is over.

Racket Care

• Do not hit the racket on the table.

• Keep the racket in a case or plastic bag so it stays clean.

• When the rubber gets dirty, use a damp sponge to clean it.

• Try not to touch the rubber any more than necessary.

• Keep the racket out of extreme heat or cold.

You can often get information on local table tennis resources from your local parks and recreation departments, community library, and university or college athletic department.