Tournaments at STC

Compete, Connect, and Keep Getting Better

Tournament Play

Find the Right Level of Competition

Southlake Tennis Center offers tournament and match play opportunities for adults and juniors ready to challenge themselves, gain experience, and grow their game. From adult USTA and UTR tournaments to junior match play pathways and seasonal social events, STC helps every player take the next step.

Tournament Opportunities

Find the Right Event for Your Level

Choose the tournament or match play option that fits your age, experience, and goals.

USTA Junior Tournaments

Compete in adult USTA and UTR events, meet new opponents, and gain match experience.

UTR Junior Events

Build tournament readiness through Match Days, UTR events, and USTA tournament levels.

Adult Social Match Play

Enjoy themed adult & family events with leveled play, friendly competition, and community.

Understanding USTA and UTR

Two Ways to Track Tournament Progress

There are two major tournament systems in tennis: USTA and UTR. Each system helps players compete, track progress, and find appropriate levels of play, but they work in different ways.

What is UTR?

UTR, or Universal Tennis Rating, measures player ability on one 16-point scale from 1.00 to 16.50. Ratings are based on actual match results and help players find competitive matches at similar levels.

What are USTA Tournaments?

USTA tournaments are competitive events organized by the United States Tennis Association. Events are structured by age, gender, and level, ranging from Level 7 beginner and intermediate tournaments to Level 1 national championship events.

USTA vs. UTR

UTR tournaments are generally more flexible, with draws that may vary based on player rating. Many UTR events are co-ed, and tournament directors may have more flexibility with formats and entries.

USTA tournaments are more formal. Players must register before the entry deadline, and events, draw formats, match formats, and officials are based on the tournament level.

Junior Tournament Guide

Helping Junior Players Take the Next Step

STC helps junior players start tournament play with confidence through Match Days, USTA/UTR events, and the right level of competition.

Where Juniors Begin

Start with USTA Match Days or UTR Verified Match Days for leveled, supportive play that helps juniors gain confidence and match experience.

Developing Tournament Players

Move into UTR Junior Circuit events with formal draws, longer schedules, and multiple matches to build competitive tournament experience.

USTA Level 7 Tournaments

Enter USTA Level 7 tournaments as an entry-level next step for players with some match play experience and growing competitive confidence.

Advanced USTA Play

Play Level 6 or Level 5 tournaments for advanced competition, where players are often selected based on USTA national rankings.

Rankings and Ratings

How Tournament Progress Is Measured

Players can build both rankings and ratings through tournament play, but each system works differently.

USTA Rankings

USTA ranking points are earned through USTA tournaments only. Rankings are used to determine selection into USTA events, especially higher-level tournaments with limited draw sizes.

UTR Ratings

UTR ratings are based on match results and help place players in competitive UTR events. A player’s UTR can be used to compare levels across age, gender, and location.

Tournament Entry

What Families Should Know Before Registering

Before registering, families should review the tournament level, age division, draw size, registration deadline, match format, location, and schedule.

B/G 12s–18s

Players may register for different tournament levels, but many events have limited entries per division. In Level 1–6 tournaments, players are selected based on ranking, and remaining players may be placed on a waitlist. Players may enter multiple tournaments in a month, but they may not enter more than one tournament per weekend.

Level 7 Events

Level 7 tournaments accept players in reverse ranking order, meaning the least experienced players are selected first. Players entering Level 7 events should still have some match play experience.

10U Players

10U players can participate in USTA Junior Circuit tournaments and UTR Junior Circuit events. Parents can search by zip code and filter for 10U divisions to find local events. The 10U divisions follow a separate player progression process.

Quick Start Guide

Getting Ready for Tournament Play

A little preparation can help players and parents feel more confident before tournament day. Use this quick guide to choose the right event and know what to expect.

1. Choose the Right Format: Choose a USTA, UTR, Match Day, or Junior Circuit event that fits the player.
2. Check the Player Level: Review age division, ball color, rating, ranking, or match play experience.
3. Review Event Details: Check deadlines, draw format, match schedule, location, and event rules.
4. Ask for Guidance: STC coaches can help juniors choose the right starting point for their level.
5. Keep Building Experience: Every match helps players learn, compete, build confidence, and keep growing.

Tournament FAQs

Does Southlake Tennis Center host adult tennis tournaments?

Yes. Southlake Tennis Center hosts adult USTA and UTR tournaments throughout the year, giving players opportunities to compete, gain match experience, and meet new opponents.

What is the difference between USTA and UTR tournaments?

USTA tournaments use a ranking system organized by age, gender, and level. UTR tournaments use a rating system designed to match players by ability.

How do I register for USTA or UTR tournaments at STC?

Players can register for adult USTA and UTR tournaments through the appropriate tournament platform. Entry deadlines apply, so review event details before signing up.

Do USTA tournament results count toward UTR?

Yes. USTA tournament results may be added to a player’s UTR results, helping players build match history in both systems.

What tournament should my junior player enter first?

Many junior players begin with STC Match Days, USTA Match Day Tournaments, or UTR Verified Match Days before moving into UTR Junior Circuit or USTA Level 7 tournaments.

Are there beginner-friendly junior tennis tournaments?

Yes. Match Days, USTA Match Day Tournaments, and UTR Verified Match Days are designed to help developing junior players gain confidence and learn how tournament play works.

Does STC offer adult social match play?

Yes. STC hosts adult and family social events throughout the year, with themed formats, leveled play, and opportunities to compete in a fun community setting.

Where can I find upcoming tournament dates?

Upcoming tennis tournament dates, social events, and registration details are available through the STC calendar and tournament links.

Do USTA Results Count Toward UTR?