Tournament Guide for Players
Everything you need to know about finding, registering for, and competing in tournaments on NextOnCourt.
Finding a Tournament
Browse Available Tournaments
- 1Navigate to the Events page from the main menu
- 2Use the filter options to narrow by sport (tennis, pickleball, etc.)
- 3Filter by date range, location, skill level, and format
- 4Look for the tournament badge to distinguish from social events
Understanding Tournament Listings
- 1Tournament name and format (singles, doubles, mixed)
- 2Date(s) and location with venue details
- 3Entry fee and registration deadline
- 4Skill level requirements (NTRP, UTR, DUPR, or self-rated)
- 5Number of spots available and current registrations
Tournament Types Explained
Registering for a Tournament
Registration Steps
- 1Click on the tournament to view full details
- 2Review all tournament information, rules, and requirements
- 3Click 'Register' or 'Sign Up' button
- 4Select your division if multiple are available
- 5For doubles: either register with a partner or request partner matching
- 6Complete the registration form with required information
- 7Review your entry and confirm details
For Doubles Tournaments
- 1If registering with a partner: enter their email to send an invite
- 2Your partner will receive an email to confirm and complete their registration
- 3If using partner matching: indicate your preferences and the organizer will pair you
- 4Some tournaments allow solo registration and match partners automatically
Registration Requirements
- 1Valid NextOnCourt account with complete profile
- 2Meet the skill level requirements (verified rating may be required)
- 3Agree to tournament rules and waiver
- 4Provide emergency contact information if requested
Payment & Confirmation
Payment Process
- 1After completing registration form, you'll be directed to payment
- 2Entry fee will be displayed along with any processing fees
- 3Choose your payment method (credit/debit card)
- 4Complete the secure payment through our payment processor
- 5Wait for payment confirmation on screen
After Successful Payment
- 1You'll receive an email confirmation with registration details
- 2Your registration will appear in your Dashboard under 'My Events'
- 3Check-in instructions and tournament details will be sent closer to the event
- 4Save the confirmation email for your records
Payment Issues
Payment Processed But Not Registered?
If your payment was successful but you don't see a registration confirmation, contact [email protected] immediately with your transaction details. Do NOT attempt to pay again.
Refund Policy
- 1Refund policies vary by tournament and are set by the organizer
- 2Check the tournament page for specific refund deadlines
- 3To request a refund, contact the event organizer directly
- 4Refunds are typically processed within 5-10 business days
- 5Important: Platform fees (NextOnCourt fee) and processing fees (Stripe fee) are non-refundable, even if a refund is issued for the registration amount
Understanding Fees
- 1Registration amount: Set by the tournament organizer
- 2Platform fee: A small percentage (2.5-3%) to support NextOnCourt operations
- 3Processing fee: Stripe payment processing (2.9% + $0.30)
- 4Only the base registration amount is eligible for refund—platform and processing fees are non-refundable
Before Tournament Day
Preparation Checklist
- 1Check your email for any tournament updates or schedule changes
- 2Review the schedule and find your first match time
- 3Note the venue address and plan your route
- 4Pack appropriate gear: racket/paddle, tennis balls (if required), water, snacks
- 5Bring a valid ID for check-in if required
- 6Ensure your phone is charged for app-based check-in and notifications
Understanding the Draw/Bracket
- 1The draw is typically released 1-3 days before the tournament
- 2Check the tournament page or your email for bracket notifications
- 3Find your name and first round opponent
- 4Note your match time and court assignment
- 5Identify potential opponents for subsequent rounds
Schedule Changes
Stay Informed
Enable push notifications in the app to receive real-time updates about schedule changes, court assignments, and match calls.
Check-In on Tournament Day
Arrival and Check-In
- 1Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your first scheduled match
- 2Locate the tournament desk or check-in area
- 3Check in via the app or with tournament staff
- 4Confirm your match time and court assignment
- 5Warm up on designated practice courts if available
App-Based Check-In
- 1Open the NextOnCourt app
- 2Go to 'My Events' and select the tournament
- 3Tap 'Check In' when prompted (available within check-in window)
- 4Your check-in status will be visible to tournament directors
What If You're Running Late?
- 1Contact the event organizer immediately via the contact info on the event page
- 2Most tournaments have a 15-minute default time before forfeiting
- 3If you'll be significantly late, ask about rescheduling options
- 4Late arrivals may result in forfeiture at the organizer's discretion
Playing Your Matches
Match Protocol
- 1Report to your assigned court at the designated time
- 2Introduce yourself to your opponent and conduct a coin toss or spin
- 3Follow the posted tournament rules for warm-up time
- 4Play your match according to the specified format (pro-set, best of 3, etc.)
- 5Keep track of the score and call lines fairly
Reporting Scores
- 1After your match, report the score immediately
- 2Use the NextOnCourt app to enter the final score
- 3Both players may be asked to confirm the result
- 4If there's a score dispute, notify tournament staff before leaving the court
Between Matches
- 1Check the app or tournament desk for your next match time
- 2Stay hydrated and rest when possible
- 3Monitor for schedule changes via push notifications
- 4Stay at the venue unless you have a significant break between matches
Code of Conduct
- 1Treat opponents, officials, and spectators with respect
- 2Make fair line calls and offer replays when in doubt
- 3Keep noise and celebrations appropriate
- 4Report any concerns or violations to tournament staff
Results & After the Tournament
Viewing Results
- 1Final results are posted on the tournament page
- 2Check your email for results summary and any awards
- 3View your match history in your profile
- 4Results may be reported to UTR/DUPR for rating updates
Rating Updates
- 1If the tournament is UTR/DUPR sanctioned, results are reported automatically
- 2Rating updates typically appear within 24-48 hours
- 3Check your rating provider's site for updated rating
- 4Dispute any incorrect match results with the organizer before they're reported
Providing Feedback
- 1You may receive a post-tournament survey
- 2Leave honest feedback to help improve future events
- 3Report any issues you experienced during the tournament
- 4Share positive experiences to help the organizer build their reputation
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Quick solutions to the most common issues players encounter.
I can't find my registration
Check your email for confirmation. Log into your Dashboard and view 'My Events'. If not there and payment was made, contact [email protected].
I need to withdraw/cancel my registration
Go to the tournament page, find your registration, and look for a cancel/withdraw option. If unavailable, contact the event organizer directly to request withdrawal.
My partner hasn't received their invite
Ask them to check spam/junk folders. You can resend the invite from your registration page. If issues persist, contact the event organizer.
I was charged twice for registration
Do not attempt additional registrations. Contact [email protected] immediately with both transaction IDs for a refund.
I can't check in via the app
Make sure you're within the check-in window and have location services enabled. Try refreshing the app. If issues persist, check in with tournament staff in person.
My opponent didn't show up
Wait the designated default time (usually 15 minutes). Report to tournament staff who will officially award you the match via walkover.
There's a dispute about the match score
Report the issue to tournament staff immediately while still at the venue. Provide your version of the score and any witnesses.
The bracket shows incorrect information
Report the error to tournament staff. They can correct bracket information. For persistent display issues after correction, contact [email protected].
Common Questions
What if I need to change my division or skill level?
Contact the event organizer before registration closes. Division changes after the draw has been made are typically not possible unless approved by the tournament director.
Can I register for multiple divisions in the same tournament?
This depends on the tournament rules. Check the tournament page for multi-division policies. Some allow it; others restrict to one division per player to ensure schedule feasibility.
What happens if the tournament is rained out?
The organizer will communicate make-up plans via email and app notifications. Options may include rescheduling, moving indoors, or partial refunds depending on how much was completed.
How do I find out about schedule changes?
Enable push notifications in the app. Also check your email and the tournament page regularly. Major changes are typically communicated through multiple channels.
Can I request a specific match time?
Contact the organizer with your request before the schedule is published. Accommodations depend on the tournament size and format. Not all requests can be honored.
What if I have a medical emergency during the tournament?
Inform tournament staff immediately. Most tournaments have first aid available. If you need to withdraw, staff will handle the walkover or bracket adjustment.
Still Need Help?
Choose the right contact for the fastest resolution.
Event Organizer
For event-specific questions, registrations, refunds, schedule conflicts, partner issues, and rule clarifications.
Find contact info on the tournament page
Technical Support
For bugs, payment issues, duplicate charges, account problems, and platform-related technical issues.
[email protected]