Dear Supporters,

Here at petition headquarters, we did some analysis on the participation history of USTA mixed doubles.  We looked at each of the various divisions and looked at the number of teams within each division over time.  We also focused on the NorCal section to narrow the scope of our research.  The graph above is the visual representation of the data.

Up through 2013, there was just one Adult mixed age group per rating.  Starting in 2014, they split each division up to 18+ and 40+ age groups.  We also see the effect of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021.

We noticed a steady increase in the number of teams up through 2012 and a jump in 2014.  The jump could be attributed to the fact that starting in 2014, one could participate in both 18+ and 40+ if you were 40+ and thus have an extra chance at advancing to a national championship.  The number of teams peaked in 2015 and from there we see a steady decline.  In fact from the peak to the current year, the total number of teams dropped by 35%.

Clearly this is not good news for USTA participation.  What could be causing the decline?  There are some possibilities:

• The players are consolidating into fewer teams.
• Players are dropping out of mixed altogether. Perhaps the mixed loophole has discouraged some players.

What do you think?  Why is participation dropping?  Do you notice a drop in participation where you are?  Have you stopped participating in mixed?  We would love to hear what your thoughts are on this decline.  In the meantime, keep spreading the word about the petition.

Cheers,

Players for Fair Competition