Doubles League Rules

1. The Draw

Players sign up as teams or as individuals. Individual sign-ups are randomly paired. Team positions in the bracket are also randomly drawn.

The tournament uses a double elimination format — you can still win the championship after losing one match. You're eliminated after losing two matches, or after losing in the finals.

2. Scheduling

• Each round has a roughly 25-day window to complete your match. It is your responsibility to contact your opponents and arrange a date.
• If the match is not played within the window, the commissioner will reach out and set an additional 8-day extension.
• If neither team makes an effort to schedule, both forfeit. If one team is available but the other cannot play, the unavailable team forfeits.
• Double forfeit in round 1: A coin toss determines who advances. In round 2+: Both teams are eliminated.

3. Match Format

• Warm-up of 10 minutes is recommended.
• Matches are played to first to 8 games with standard tennis rules. At 7–7, a tiebreaker is played to 7 points (alternating serve: 1-2-2-2).
• If a match is interrupted (court time, weather), players should move to the next available court. If that's not possible, the match continues another day with the existing score.

4. Score Reporting

Email scores to fhtcleague@hotmail.com after each match.

5. General Rules

• Coin toss, racquet spin, or mutual agreement decides first serve.
• Change sides after every odd game and after every 6 points in a tiebreaker.
• All other standard tennis rules apply.

6. Team Roster

• Only the two listed players may play for each team — no substitutes for vacation or injury.
• A roster change is allowed before your first match by contacting the commissioner. Once a point has been played, the roster is locked for the season.
• All players must be FHTC members.

7. Injuries

Each team is allowed one medical timeout of up to 10 minutes per match. If the injured player cannot continue after 10 minutes, their team forfeits the match.