The Herald Sun has recently reported of a Victorian man’s victory in Ringwood Magistrate’s Court against the Victorian branch of the Australian Scrabble Players Association (ASPA).

In 2008, Mohammed A Hegazi was banned from competitive playing for a period of twelve months following allegations he had upset various opponents with “unacceptable” comments and “ill-mannered” tactics.

The matter, which was unable to settle at Mediation, went to hearing on 5 January, 2015.

Mr Hegazi, who has penned a 35,000 word blog emphatically professing his innocence sought a Declaration that the Association had wrongfully labelled him a “cheat”, legal costs and damages.

Ringwood Magistrates Court overturned the ban and ordered the ASPA print a Statement saying the suspension had been revoked in their quarterly magazine, Across the Board.

Magistrate Phillip Ginnane however, said it was not within his power to order that the ASPA make a declaration that Mr Hegazi had not cheated.

The Magistrate also ordered that Mr Hegazi pay the ASPA’s legal costs of $3,096.83 for unreasonably rejecting a settlement offer at Mediation.

When asked outside Court if he would continue to play Scrabble, Mr Hegazi did not hesitate. “Yes, there’s no reason why not”  he said.

If you have questions or concerns regarding any legal issues, contact Brazel Moore Lawyers on (02) 4324 7699 to speak to an experienced Solicitor today.