This section is dedicated to monitoring and discussing ITTF proposals, rule changes, unfair treatment or inconsistencies in their actions.
As discussed many times on this forum, there have been instances where ITTF proposals or actions have seemed illogical, unfair or inconsistant. Although we do not always have all the facts to decide whether the decision are right or wrong, this section is dedicated to discussing these issues, and archive all the events for future reference.
Since the ITTF is not really accountable to players, nor do individuals have any direct say in who gets elected, they pretty much have a free reign. Where actions or changes appear to be contrary to the interest of our sport or players, this section will help highlight and publicise them, in the hope that we can take positive action, and help keep them honest and accountable.
The types of topics I do like to see in this section:
1. Discussions of any new ITTF proposition or rule changes (eg new plastic balls)
2. Discussions of ITTF public statements
3. Historic account of the steps that led to certain changes or decisions (eg tuner ban)
4. Examples of where the ITTF is inconsistant or biassed towards or against certain individuals, organisations or manufacturers (eg allowing some big manufacturers to get away with certain things that smaller ones would be penalised for).
The types of topics I don't like to see in this section:
1. This should not be a section for so called 'ITTF bashing', which has proven top be counter-productive as it turns people against each other instead of uniting us for a common cause.
Note: By "bashing" I mean when we're no longer discussing the topic at hand, and we're throwing personal feeling or unsubstantiated claims into the topic to try and make our case. If we want the section to be effective we need to discuss the facts, and one topic at the time, and not use this section to express our anger and frustration towards the ITTF. Members can post this elsewhere if people feel the need, but in this section we must try and stick to the facts and evidence for the topic at hand. Although I can certainly understand and relate to people's anger and frustration (and even share it at times!), I don't think it can have a place in this section if we want it to be effective.
No doubt some topics will be harder to keep on track, but I think we are mature enough to handle it, and if we succeed than it's going to be a lot more constructive for others, compared to a thread where members express their personal frustration and we end up in bun fight.
