Summit County Tennis Ladder (SCL) Rules

Ladder Format

The ladder is broken up into rungs. A rung typically consists of three players but may contain more depending on participation.

• Each player in the rung will typically be assigned two matches within a round.
• A round lasts for three weeks (Monday to Sunday).
• Rounds may be extended due to rain or holidays.
• Reporting: Players should have their matches reported by noon on the day after the round ends.
• New Rounds: We expect to send out contact info and post the new round by 7pm on the first day of each new round.

Player Behavior

Players are expected to be courteous and follow the official USTA codes:

• The Code of Tennis
• Rules of Tennis

Player Info

To play, you must provide: phone number, email address, player rating, match availability, and preferred court. Players without this information will not be added until complete.

Minors are allowed to play providing:

1. An adult or guardian is the main contact.
2. The adult or guardian is present at the match (but not on court).
3. They behave as other players are expected to behave.

Singles Ladder

The Singles Ladder contains players ranging from ex-college athletes to beginners. Results from previous rounds determine placement for new rounds.

• Convincing wins or losses may result in moving up or down multiple rungs.
• Placement depends on withdrawals, new players, and skill levels.
• Standard Movement: Generally, a 2-0 record moves up, 1-1 remains, and 0-2 drops down one rung.

Special Advancement

• Promotion: A player may be promoted multiple rungs if both matches are decisive wins (e.g., 6-0, 6-1).
• Demotion: A player may be demoted multiple rungs if both matches are decisive losses (e.g., 0-6, 0-6).

Setting Up Matches

• Please contact opponents within 3 days of the round beginning.
• If contacted first, try to reply within 2 days.
• Failure to communicate can result in removal for the next round. Contact coordinators privately if an opponent is non-responsive.
• Agree on date, time, and location. If a court needs reservation, both players should attempt to reserve it.

Playing the Match

• Format: Best two out of three sets. (Players can agree on a different format for time/weather constraints).
• Tiebreakers:
  • Set tiebreaker: 7 points (win by 2) at 6-6.
  • 3rd Set: 10 point tiebreaker (first to 10, win by 2).
  • A full 3rd set or alternative scoring is allowed if both agree.
• Timing: Matches should begin no later than 15 minutes after scheduled time.
• Balls: Each player provides a new can of USTA approved high elevation tennis balls for one of the matches (as indicated in group messages).

After the Match

Report results to an SCL coordinator. Unfinished matches may be resumed later if both players are available within the round dates; otherwise, scheduling constraints may make this impractical.

Matches Not Played

• Forfeits: A forfeit is awarded to the player who tried to set up the match if the other is more responsible for the failure to play.
• Players forfeiting both matches may be removed from the next round.
• Poor communication or no-shows will result in removal from the next round.

Cancellations

If canceling less than 24 hours before a match:

• Ensure your opponent acknowledges the cancellation.
• Do not rely solely on text/email; call to confirm if you don't get a quick reply.
• A canceled match is better than a "no show."

Penalties

• Discourteous behavior may result in removal.
• Most players are allowed to resume after a one-round penalty.
• Severe problems may result in suspension from all ladder play.

Miscellaneous

Information is for personal use only. Contact info is confidential and will not be sold or loaned to outside groups.