Category Archives: News and Updates

Tournament Q&A

Every year, parents and players have plenty of questions regarding our tournaments, so we’re here to answer some of them:

QUESTION: Are the Junior Smash and Summer Smash the same thing? Answer: No. The Summer Smash was created to offer high school players an opportunity to play competitive tennis in a fun environment. Incoming Freshmen to graduating Seniors are eligible to play, and singles, doubles and mixed doubles are offered. Parents of younger players began asking about opportunities for them, so we created the Junior Smash, a one-day singles tournament for players 11-15, that takes place every June.

QUESTION: I signed up for the Summer Smash, but I have to work one of the days; is that a problem? Answer: We added the Thursday to our tournament to increase flexibility in scheduling, and with our lighted courts we have matches running from morning to late at night. We do need players to be available some times during the first two days in order to get the first round completed and consolation rounds going; what’s important is that players let us know when they’re registering any conflicts they might have, and we do our best to work around them.

QUESTION: I’ve registered but would like to pay the day of; is that an option? Answer: We have our online payment via PayPal, or a check can be mailed (made out to SHS Tennis Booster Club NOT Snohomish Summer Smash); we prefer payments not be made while checking in. Trying to track payments while handling match logistics makes for much confusion.

QUESTION: What are the differences between the different divisions? I’m not sure what division to sign up for. Answer: Our Bronze level is for incoming Freshmen, players who have maybe played a year or two of JV, or maybe were on the exhibition team for Varsity. Silver would be for players who maybe are #2-4 on Varsity, but just haven’t played much tennis outside of the high school tennis. Gold is for top Varsity players, including those who have played USTA tournaments. Many of our Gold competitors are State qualifiers. If you are unsure, feel free to email us and we will help place you in the right division.

QUESTION: I’m a USTA player; is it even worth my time to play in the tournament? Answer: Every year, between 15 and 20 players who are State competitors take part in the Summer Smash, many who have USTA tournament experience. This year, alums of the Summer Smash are playing NCAA Division 1, Division 2, and Division 3 tennis. They chose to play in our tournament because it is tough competition in a fun environment.