Guidelines for running a Campus Showdown
Here are some guidelines for running a Campus Showdown event on your campus. Campus Showdowns are "Open Events" (13.11.3.1) as defined by the NCAA under "Tryout Exceptions" (13.11.3)
Do
- Submit your application form to the USTA to secure a date. Both the National and Sectional office will review each request to ensure conflicts are minimized.
- Make sure you are a current ITA member and USTA Organizational member ($35/year).
- Decide in advance how many players you can accommodate.
- Publicize this event on your website as an "Open" event.
- Assist your Sectional contact in publicizing the event.
- Follow all NCAA rules with regard to having prospects on campus. With the exception of making the draw and handing out the balls, behave as if you were recruiting at a junior tournament.
- Make sure entries are taken on a first come, first served basis and document entry fees for all participants.
- E-mail or fax a copy of the draw after the event to the National office to receive your stipend.
- Let the USTA know if you plan on hosting more than one event per year. Even though an institution is eligible for one stipend per year, it is important to get all events on the calendar.
Don’t
- Exclude anyone from the tournament based on ability – only on entrant limit.
- Allow your team to wear their team uniform or pay entry fees for your players—if you do, it will count as a date.
- Participate in any coaching activities during the entire event. No talking with your players about any aspect of tennis until the completion of the event.
- Engage in any recruiting activities. No campus tours, media guides, promotional materials, etc. on site.
- Talk to parents of prospects about anything except the tournament operation.
- Have any participants who are on an "Official Visit" to campus. Unofficial visits are ok as long as no recruiting takes place during the event.
- Tell your players they have to play – this has to be truly voluntary.
When hosting events other than Open events, please contact your institution's compliance office for information and assistance as well as consult your current NCAA Division Manual or NAIA Policy Manual.
More questions? Contact Elissa Hill, Coordinator, Junior & Collegiate Competition:
Office: (561) 962-6430
E-mail: Kinard@usta.com