New Players Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who plays bridge?

   People of all ages and backgrounds play bridge. We see students from nearby schools, professional people, housewives, retirees and many others. Our dear friend Ina Goldman who recently passed away at age 99 played weekly. The Goodman's have been inviting their teenage grandsons to come and learn the game. Acquiring the "bug" can happen to anyone. Be careful you might get bitten.

2. Why would I like Bridge?

   Bridge players are brighter and better looking than non players. Also, if you like challenges and enjoy games where skill is rewarded, while playing in a friendly atmosphere, then you are likely to enjoy bridge. You can only find out if you try it....a six month test period should let you know if this game is for you.

3. How is duplicate bridge different from "regular" bridge?

   Regular Bridge, aka, contract bridge, is generally played by four players who pair up in two teams and play against each other. Each hand is part of a process to win games and ultimately a "rubber." If you get good cards you have a lot of fun. If you don't get many cards with faces you have a long evening.

   In duplicate you have a number of different types of games...pair games, knockouts, swiss teams, etc. What they all have in common is the fact that all the same hands will be played by all of the pairs in sitting in your direction.Your results are compared with all of the players sittng in your direction and playing the same cards. Your score will be based on how well you did against these players. No more excuses that you got lousy cards all night. A true test of who can do the best with the hands as they are dealt.

4. How long is a duplicate game?

   The length of games will vary, but generally a single session game consisting of 18 to 28 hands (called boards) can last from 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours.

5. What if I am not a good card player?

   Can you count to 13? Do you think logically? Seems you have all the qualifications to enjoy and be a successful player. What you may need are lessons and experience? You will always be learning and developing your skills as a player. It is one of the few games where as you get older you become a better player.

6. How am I supposed to compete with experienced players?

   Almost all of the games are stratified. That means you will be grouped with players of similar experience for scoring purposes. What is really a lot of fun is when a flight C player knocks off all the As and Bs and wins the whole enchilada...and believe me it can happen.

7. What does it cost?

   A game at the Bridge club is one of the best deals in town. For a regular weekly game, the fee is $5.00 per person for members and $7.00 for nonmembers. For special games and tournaments, the game fee will increase. There are some discounts available for students. It is hard to find a better deal for your time or entertainment dollar.

8. How do I find a partner?

   This is an easy one. Just contact one of the game directors and let them know when you would like to play, give them an idea of your experience level and "voila" they will match you up.

9. Do I have to be a member of VBEA to play bridge at the Vanderbilt Bridge Center?

   No...but there are some real advantages of membership. The dues ($40.00 per year) help support the Club and all the events held there. Additionally, you save a couple of bucks per session. It does not take long for this savings to make the membership a "no brainer." Oh, did if forget to mention, you become associated with a great group of people.

10. What is the ACBL and do I have to be a member to play?

    The ACBL is our game's governing body (about ACBL). They

    • Sanction the games and the award of Masterpoints;
    • Certify directors and teachers,
    • Govern the rules of the game and players code of conduct; and
    • Sponsor three national tournaments each year.

    Membership information can be obtained from any game director.