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Intro to Soft Tennis 101

Scoring System in Soft Tennis

The scoring system in soft tennis differs from that of traditional tennis, employing a unique system. Here are the main features and rules of soft tennis scoring:

Basic Scoring Rules

  1. Match Format:

    • Singles matches typically use a best-of-three sets format.
    • Doubles matches typically use a best-of-five sets format.

  2. Points per Set:

    • Each set uses a 7-point system.
    • The first side to reach 7 points wins the set.

  3. Tiebreak:

    • If the score reaches 6-6, a 7-point tiebreak is played.
    • In the tiebreak, the first side to reach 7 points and lead by 2 points wins.

Scoring Details

  1. Point Scoring:

    • After each rally, the winning side scores 1 point.
    • Both the serving and receiving sides can score points.

  2. Service Change:

    • The serve changes after each point.
    • In the tiebreak, the serve changes every 2 points.

  3. Changing Ends:

    • Players change ends after each set.
    • In the tiebreak, players change ends every 4 points.

  4. Service Fault:

    • In soft tennis, there is only one service attempt.
    • A service fault directly results in a point for the opponent.

Determining the Winner

  1. Singles Matches:

    • Best-of-three sets, the player who wins two sets first wins the match.

  2. Doubles Matches:

    • Best-of-five sets, the team that wins three sets first wins the match.

Scoreboard Display

In soft tennis matches, the scoreboard typically displays the following information:

  • Current set count
  • Score for each set
  • Serving side indicator

Main Differences from Traditional Tennis

  1. Scoring System:

    • Soft tennis uses a 7-point system.
    • Traditional tennis uses the 15-30-40 scoring system.

  2. Service Opportunities:

    • Soft tennis allows only one service attempt.
    • Traditional tennis allows two service attempts.

  3. Match Length:

    • Soft tennis matches are typically shorter.
    • Traditional tennis matches can be longer, especially in five-set matches.

Understanding the scoring system of soft tennis is crucial for appreciating and participating in this sport. This unique scoring system makes the game faster-paced and more exciting, while also requiring players to maintain high concentration in every rally.