ÖTV Senior Section Unveils Exciting Updates for 2025 Season
In a recent proclamation, Edi Glasner, a senior speaker for the ÖTV (Österreichischer Tennisverband), shared key updates and innovations planned for the upcoming 2025 season.These changes aim to enhance the experience for senior tennis players across Austria, offering new opportunities and improvements to the ranking system and tournament structure.
New Online Senior Rankings Coming Mid-2025
One of the most significant updates is the introduction of an online senior ranking system. By mid-2025, players will have access to their rankings through a user-pleasant online platform.A test run is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025, with potential adjustments to ensure the rankings are both meaningful and accurate.Glasner emphasized that the goal is to have the new ranking system fully operational by the start of the championship season in 2025.
For more details, players can visit the ÖTV seniors homepage, where they can find the clarification of the new rankings and the results of the recent survey conducted among senior players.
Survey Insights: Key Changes for Tournaments
The ÖTV has taken player feedback seriously, implementing several changes based on the survey results. Here are the highlights:
- three-Day Tournaments: For older age groups,players expressed a preference for tournaments lasting no more than three days. To accommodate this, the ÖTV will focus on ensuring that younger age groups can complete their competitions within this timeframe. Matches will primarily be scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays, with the possibility of two matches per day.
- Second Game at Tournaments: The ÖTV has already introduced a second game at the austrian Championships and the Zischka ÖTV Seniors Trophy powered by HEAD. This feature will now be extended to state championships, with a focus on including a side round in each competition.
- ITN Competitions: ITN (International Tennis Number) competitions have been well-received at major events. the ÖTV is considering expanding these competitions to additional tournaments, with a focus on offering ITN-based events at state championships as well.
- Doubles Competitions: Doubles events are already a staple at all ÖTV tournaments, ensuring that players have ample opportunities to compete in both singles and doubles.
The Importance of Senior Rankings
Glasner highlighted the meaning of the new ranking system, stating, “It is important to give all players goals. That’s why the evaluation of our players should be based on two pillars: the ITN playing strength and the rankings!”
The ITN system evaluates a player’s skill level,while the rankings reflect their performance in tournaments and championships. By combining these two metrics, the ÖTV aims to provide a comprehensive view of each player’s abilities, ensuring that both active competitors and those who play less frequently are recognized.
The accompanying chart illustrates how the ITN playing strength of top players typically changes with age, providing valuable insights into the evolution of player performance over time.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Senior Tennis
With these exciting updates, the ÖTV is poised to elevate the senior tennis experience in 2025. By listening to player feedback and implementing thoughtful changes, the association is ensuring that tennis remains a vibrant and rewarding sport for seniors across Austria.
For those interested in organizing senior tournaments, Glasner encourages reaching out to explore the possibilities. The ÖTV is committed to fostering a supportive and dynamic habitat for all senior players.
Stay tuned for more updates as the 2025 season approaches, and get ready to experience the future of senior tennis with the ÖTV!
