Dates and Some Changes!!
Dates for USA League Tennis Wyoming District Playoffs for 2003 have been tentatively set. We are offering four formats for players of all ages this year. The Spring Mixed playoff is currently scheduled for June 14 and 15 (location TBA). This is a combined mixed doubles competition - NTRP ratings of two partners cannot exceed a certain level. We will offer 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 levels of play. The USA League Adult District playoff will once again be in Laramie on August 1, 2, and 3. We'll offer play at the 2.5 level this year for players who are just starting tennis, in addition to the standard 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 levels for men and women. Senior League playoffs (age 50 and up) will be in Cheyenne on August 16 and 17. We'll wrap up the season with the ITA Fall Mixed (location TBA) on October 11 and 12. This is at level mixed doubles competition (3.0, 3.5, 4.0, and 4.5).
There are several important rule changes to be aware of. First is D(ynamic) NTRP. New players may self-rate, and all NTRP ratings will be computer generated based upon your match results. Only Adult and Senior League Division matches will be used to for your rating, and tournament results from NTRP events will be entered at the end of the year. Based upon your match play, you can be disqualified if you are consistently playing above level. This will primarily affect self-rated players new to the system. If you do not play this year, your 2002 computer rating will be good for FIVE years! So if you wish to appeal, this is the year to do it. We hope to have 2002 ratings published in January. Information about DNTRP will be included in Captains packets.
The ITA Board passed two other important changes at this year's annual meeting. For the first time ever, you will be allowed to play on two different teams in different Districts during the same league season. Also, the Sectional break-up rule has been dropped. If your team went to Sectional Championships, your team does not have to split up. These changes should be of great benefit to Wyoming players.
Check the WYOTA website for more information on USA League Tennis, and if you have questions call Julie Francis at 307-745-3410 (evenings please) or email at JulJulief@aol.com. I'm looking forward to seeing you all on the courts this coming year!!