With the state lifting all COVID related restrictions for events, we’re expanding the field for both days from 96 (chosen to keep the total under the mandated 100) to 108 total players. In order to do this, we have divided each day into two pools of 54 and placed divisions in those pools in a “best fit” manner based on current registration/waitlist numbers. Waitlists will now run by pool, so if a player drops from pool A on Saturday, then the first player signed up for a pool A division (who may not be #1 on the list for that day) will be elevated from the waitlist.
Now an explanation on why 108 and not, say, 144 for each day. Parking to accommodate nearly 150 people is a challenge at Dragan Field. Heck, parking for 72-90 players is a challenge. 108 players is as big as we’re comfortable trying to squeeze in for a single day. At least until we can work out a solution to expand our parking capacity.
Capping each pool at 54 will allow for us to primarily utilize cards of 3 players, which will have the effect of keeping things moving more smoothly all day. We hope the result will be an even more enjoyable day for everyone.
Also, a quick explanation on the held spots for the doubles league raffle winner. No, we’re not giving away four spots. Just one. However, without knowing which division the winner will want to play, we are reserving a space in each pool. Once the winner is drawn, the unused spots will go to the first player on each appropriate waitlist. The drawing will take place on the Monday before the tournament, so waitlist players will have ample time to register and plan their trip to Dragan Field on tournament day.