Tournament FAQs
You've got questions, we've got answers! We do our best to keep you informed and up to date on all tournament policies, practices, and procedures. These are some of our most commonly asked questions.
Are tournaments sanctioned?
Yes, all SATA tournaments are sanctioned by the USTA. These tournaments are approved by the USTA and follow a set of rules and regulations. Sanctioned tournaments are aimed at the "ambitious" player who wishes to obtain a ranking in the 42 ranking age divisions from Open to 85 years of age, and includes singles and doubles. Once a player earns points they can obtain a Section and National ranking.
The tournament is scheduled to start on Thursday (or Friday) so why are we starting on Friday (or Saturday)?
A tournament is sanctioned for a certain number of days based on the level of the tournament and to accommodate when a tournament reaches full capacity in all divisions. However, based on registrations, the number of courts available, and the number of matches to be played, there may not be a need to begin on the first day of the sanction. As long as all protocols and policies set forth by USTA are being met, it is not a requirement to host the event for the entirety of the sanction. However, a tournament cannot be played outside of the sanction days.
The tournament says it will start Thursday (or Friday) but I cannot play on those days, can I request a scheduling accommodation?
Scheduling accommodations are at the discretion of the Tournament Director, and we do our best when reviewing requests. However, despite our best efforts some request cannot be honored. As such, we do discourage players from asking for scheduling accommodations.
Why is SATA only running 2 day tournaments? We used to always play across three days?
This is new in 2025, and comes from a Section policy that stems from a National protocol. Reasons for this structure include: --Player Development: The structure allows players to get more match experience without the extended travel and time commitment that might be associated with a longer tournament. --Progression in Competitive Experience: As players move up in USTA levels, the tournament duration tends to increase, reflecting the more demanding competition and potential for more matches. --Building a National Ranking: Playing Level 6 tournaments allows players to begin accumulating national adult ranking points.
How do I withdraw from a tournament?
If the tournament registration has not closed, it is the player’s responsibility to withdraw before the registration deadline and prior to selections. If registration has closed and you need to email the Tournament Director immediately. See the SATA refund policy regarding withdrawals.
When is the registration fee collected?
Credit cards are verified for validity at the time of registration. Payments are deducted in full when player selection is completed.
I have a higher National ranking but was seeded lower, why?
The USTA utilizes both national rankings and the All Factors method for seeding players. In most cases, NTRP and junior tournaments use the national standings list, whereas family, age, and senior divisions use the “All Factors” method. When the All Factors method is used, the section tournament committee coordinates seeding using various factors like head-to-head records even from non-sanctioned events like USPTA or ITF tournaments, type of playing surface, indirect wins/losses, national rankings, and other relevant information. While national rankings are the standard for many tournaments, the All Factors Method allows for a more comprehensive assessment of a player's potential in certain high-level or unique format events.
If the division I signed up for does not meet the minimum required registration, and I move to another age or NTRP division, do I get points for the division in which I originally registered?
Points in USTA tournaments are awarded based on match results within a specific division. If you don't play in a division, you can't earn points for it. You'll only accumulate points in the division you actually compete in.
Why don’t I see points from the tournament?
Players who do not win a match do not receive win points. In a round robin format, players will receive play points, but unless they win a match will not receive win points. If you believe that your points/ranking is not correct you must contact National directly. Rankings are updated the Wednesday after the tournament. You can review your player profile to see your tournaments and points.
The weather forecast is showing rain so I don’t understand why the TD is not making schedule changes and/or beginning the tournament earlier in the week?
Tournaments are sanctioned for a certain number of days depending on the level of the tournament. Matches are not allowed to be played outside of the days that are sanctioned. Further, Tournament Directors do not prematurely make changes based on potential weather forecasts. However, the TD does have alternative options in the event the tournament is faced with rain or other inclement weather. See Appendix C - Suspension of Postponement of Play
What happens if I sign up for a tournament before year end ratings come out, but my rating changes before the start of the tournament?
If you registered before your year end rating was published, you may play in the level you registered under. If you register after the year end rating is published, you must register under the new rating.
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