Ask The Experts
Roundtable: Effects of New Scoring in Division I (Part 2)
by Blair Henley, 11 March 2016
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College tennis is looking a little different these days. No-ad scoring, a single set for doubles matches and eliminated warm-ups with opponents are just a few of the changes approved by the NCAA to quicken the pace of dual match play. Last month's panel explained that, while the changes have generally been well-received, players are forced to approach their matches with a different mindset.
Today, we get feedback from a new group of coaches on the following question:
Q) How has the revised scoring format for singles and doubles changed the dual match dynamic and the training necessary to prepare your team?
David Roditi, head coach, TCU Men
The new format - no warm-up and no-ad - does force players to adjust. It is even more critical to be ready from the first point, which means players must be more aware and more focused during their warm-up. They know they have to have everything ready to go, and that is the beauty of it. It makes them more professional and aware of the small details.
No-ad scoring is also helping student-athletes value the importance of every single point. They know a concentration lapse at the wrong time can really hurt them. This is also a good thing. They are forced to mature much faster as players, and they can see the results much easier now.
Danielle Steinberg, head coach, Kansas State Women
We were fortunate that the Big 12 decided to go ahead and play with this format throughout last season as well, so this is nothing new for us. The team adjusted to the no-ad scoring rather quickly, and I think they almost prefer it now. I truly believe that the more aggressive player will have the upper hand with no-ad.
Shortening the doubles required the biggest adjustment as a team, and it's an area where we still need to improve. The doubles point is so fast now that a bad start will cost you the set - and it will happen very quickly. You just can't afford to start slowly. Players need to come out more focused and better energized, having the mindset that the match started 10 minutes ago!
