USTA Flex Leagues Offer Tennis on Your Terms

USTAFlex.com
For Active.com

League tennis competition tailored to meet your busy schedule. That's what USTA's new Flex Leagues are all about.

With today's busy lifestyles, committing to a fixed league schedule is keeping many players from engaging in tennis. Playing at the same time every week and at the same location just doesn't work for many players' schedules.

The United States Tennis Association is hoping to change all that with the new Flex Leagues tennis program.

"USTA Flex Leagues offer players flexibility in scheduling their tennis around other commitments and an opportunity to meet and play other players outside their current player group," said USTA Player and Network Services Managing Director Patricia Freebody.

From beginner to advanced, Flex Leagues offer fun and competitive matches for players of all levels. You get all the thrills, excitement and fun of USTA League Tennis, but according to your schedule.

USTA Flex Leagues group players of similar ability together in an organized league that allows players to schedule matches according to their schedules, and at a convenient location. Players sign up online for singles or doubles play using the TennisLink system. Players can also track standings, scout opponents, report scores and schedule their matches with the online system.

The home player is responsible for setting up a match in any given week; they are responsible for connecting with their opponent, setting up a time and scheduling the location. This allows players to compete at a time and a date that is mutually convenient.

All flights are based on the National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) to ensure fair and competitive matches. Play may range from 2.5 – 5.0 NTRP level. Whether you are starting up, getting back in the swing of things or a seasoned veteran, there is a flight for you.

Here's how Flex Leagues work:

Level of Play
Play is ordered by NTRP levels. If you have a current NTRP rating, it is suggested you play at that level or above. If you do not have a current NTRP rating, you are prompted to self rate when level of play is selected. Not sure you know your level? Self-rate your game.

Schedule Matches
Schedules will be created designating a week for matches to be played. Matches can be played any time agreed upon by both players (or both doubles pairs). All matches should be completed and scores entered by the season end date for the program.

Home Player
The schedule will designate one player (pair) as home. The home player arranges the court and covers any court costs. The home player should initiate the contact with an opponent, but the away player can choose to make the contact. Each player brings a new can of balls to the match, the winner taking home the unopened can.

Scoring
It is recommended that the winner enter the scores for the match and the opponent confirms it is correct. Either player can enter scores, but only a local tennis organizer may correct scores that have been entered. The scoring format will be best of three sets, 12-point tie break at 6 all; or best of three sets, 10-point match tie break in lieu of third set.

Rules of Play
Play is self-regulated and disputes should be worked out by the players. It is recommended you read the Code for Unofficiated Matches to familiarize yourself with the rules of tennis.

Playoff
In leagues with multiple flights, a playoff could be scheduled between flight winners. The local tennis organizer will let you know how a playoff would be scheduled.

Whether you’re looking to play more matches, improve your skills, expand your social network or be a part of a team, Flex Leagues offer all the benefits of USTA League Tennis on your terms, tailored to fit your schedule.