Newsletter #12

We had 4 forfeits this week out of 20 matches scheduled. Just wanted to remind you that you can request a sub if you are busy all week and you can't play. This way your opponent doesn't miss a match. Thank you for your efforts and dedication to this league. I hope you are having great time playing tennis this summer. Your updated standings after the 4th round are ready at http://www.rochestertennisleague.com/

Quick note that Dave P is covering for Tony L in the wild card group until he is ready to get back.

Third set rule
So far I had about half of the members comment on the third set rule issue. Thank you for very insightful comments and suggestions.

So far it seems like there is no overwhelming majority but slightly more people are leaning toward allowing 10 point tiebreakers. Everybody who was in favor of having 10 point tiebreak stated that the tiebreaker would only be played if both players agree to it. It seems like everyone should be happy if we add this option, because those of you who are for playing full third set would still be able to do so since it would still be the default .

On the other hand we already have a way to finish a match early (easy way out of a long match) and that is a tie. So if the issue is that players are tired or it's getting dark they can call it a tie. As you know players can agree to do this at 1-1 set score. This score is only valid if both players agree to stop playing and call it a tie, otherwise the third set is to be played. For a tie score each player gets 1 point. Granted you get less points for it, but if you didn't allow enough time for your match to get done before dark and you can't come next day to finish it, it is still a a valid score that gets you a point.


A lot of players who were in favor of the third set wanted to stress out the fact that the expectation still has to be to play full third set, and not to look for an easy way out. For them the third set is a delight that they don't want to lose.

I am reluctant to change this rule because I don't want to turn the matches into negotiating process where some people might feel pressured into playing 10 point tie breakers even though they would rather play third set. As one of you stated, tennis is a game of mental and physical endurance and sudden death 10 point tiebreaker kind of cuts the battle short making it more likely for player who is not in better physical shape to win.


Another question is should 10 point tiebreaker win bear as many points as a full 3rd set victory?

For example , should we make 10 point tiebreaker win count for 2.5 points as opposed to 3 points for any other win.

So lets keep the debate going about this . I heard from only half of the league members so far. Unless we have a large majority in favor of adding the tiebreaker option, I don't think we should do it. We can vote on this rule change in a week or two so we have a clear picture where everyone stands.

Stringing
Just a quick note that Keegan Hakala has a stringing machine so you can contact him if you need you racket strung.

Cooks park

Looks like 2 tennis courts in Cooks Park on the 7th street NW have been resurfaced.

Cannon Falls tournament
Just a reminder that the doubles interleague tournament is going to be held on Sunday August 8th in Cannon falls at 3pm. If you want to join the Rochester Tennis League team for this meet please e mail Keegan Hakala.

Have a great week.