The J.J. Pearce ranking system is based on several key factors. Previous season standings, tryout results, challenge matches, attitude, attendance, wearing the proper attire for practice/matches, participation, health issues or injury, previous match results and a desire to move up the ladder are all taken into account. The opponent we will be playing may also be a factor in who is chosen to play in certain positions. These factors are evaluated and the ladder is made. A ladder is never set in stone and is subject to change on a weekly or even daily basis. In the end, the Coach has the right to make executive decisions and the option to play who he/she feels is the best fit.
Tryouts (In May):
New members and previous junior varsity/varsity members play condensed matches. The scores are recorded and a point system is put in effect. This helps give an idea of where a team member stands at the current time, but is not concrete.
Challenge Matches:
Challenge matches can be coach or player appointed. Generally a player will challenge someone who is 1 spot ahead of them on the team. If they beat that individual, they will move ahead and the challenge results stand firm for 2 weeks. After two weeks, the individual who lost may challenge again.
In the beginning of the year, it takes a good while to get everyone into place. Many individuals improve greatly during the summer and some individuals regress, thinking they have a solid position. The larger the group, the more time it takes to get everything settled. When there is a large team, many individuals may not get a chance to play in matches very often. This is a result of not making cuts during tryouts. I believe in giving everyone a chance to improve, but please understand that no match participation is guaranteed. The players were told this during tryouts and were to discuss their current positioning on the team with their parents. They were all made aware that being on the team is no guarantee to participate in competitions. This summer is a great time to improve!!
Opponent:
A weaker or stronger opponent may result in line-up changes. When it is known that a team is weaker, individuals lower on the ladder have a higher chance of match participation.
Coach:
The coach is responsible for making decisions they feel is best fit for the team. Lots of thought and time go into making a line-up that is tailored to meet the needs of the match at hand. There are instances when things do not go as planned and flexibility and cooperation are necessary. Injuries, sickness, and schedule conflicts are just a few examples of instances in which line-ups have to be adjusted.