Playing Showdown

Showdown is fast, tactical, and full of energy, but the rules are simple once you know the basics. Below is a clear, accessible guide to how the game is played, including serving, scoring, referee signals, and penalties.

Match Format

Showdown matches can be played as:

• Best of 1 set
• Best of 3 sets
• Best of 5 sets

A set is won by the first player to reach 11 points with a 2‑point lead.

Changing Ends

• In 3‑ or 5‑set matches: players change ends after each set.
• In single‑set matches and final sets: players change ends when one player reaches 6 points.

Starting the Match

Before play begins:

• The referee tosses a coin to decide who serves first.
• The referee controls the flow of the match using whistle signals.

Referee Whistle Signals

• Single whistle — Start or stop play
• Double whistle — Goal scored
• Long whistle — End of set or match

These signals ensure the game is clear and predictable for all players.

Serving

Each player serves twice in a row.

A legal serve must:

• Bounce once off the side wall
• Pass under the centre screen
• Enter the opponent’s half of the table

The referee must blow the whistle before each serve, and the player must serve within two seconds of the whistle.

If the serve does not meet these requirements, it is a foul.

Dead Ball

A “dead ball” is called when:

• The ball is moving too slowly to reach a playable position
• A player has lost track of the ball

The referee blows a single whistle and calls “dead ball”. Play restarts with a re‑serve.

Warning and Penalties

The referee can issue a warning or penalty anytime during the match.

Warnings stay in effect for the entire match. If a player receives two warnings, their opponent is awarded two penalty points.

Warnings may be given for:

• Not playing from behind the table
• Hooking the ball with fingers
• Excessive table movement
• Scraping the bat loudly or disruptively
• Talking during play
• Entering the goal area with any part of the body
• Not keeping one foot on the ground
• Delaying the game or disturbing the opponent

Immediate Penalties (no warning needed):

• Touching eye shades without permission
• A player’s phone or device making noise

Each of these results in two points awarded to the opponent.

Full Rules

For full details, you can read the official IBSA Showdown Rules on the International Blind Sports Federation website.