A sanctioned tournament allows players to earn points toward their state rankings. The more points a player earns the higher the ranking they achieve. The higher ranking then allows them the opportunity to compete in more difficult tournaments including the state closed events in which players qualify for Southern level play. North and South Carolina are among nine states that make up the Southern Section of the United States. There are 17 sections in the United States and the top players from these sections play in National Tournaments.
High rankings determine future scholarship and financial athletic offers for high school students. The Southeastern Conference is considered the top tennis conference in the United States, followed by the Pac 10 and the ACC.
– article submitted by Barbara Childs