*IMPORTANT* New WHBPC Space Distribution process

With regard to the World's team selection, NAH unexpectedly found itself asked to sort something that we ultimately realized needs a more thorough process. Problem is, this process didn't exist in 2009. This is an inherently difficult task without factoring in that NAH is working as a voluntary, fledgling group attempting to accomplish something never done before in a time crunch via the internet. It has needed thorough discussion and revision. With this final revision - and not a moment too soon - we feel we have arrived at a solution that is the best we could hope for given the circumstances.

As a body, we feel an obligation to be fair. It's why we entertained the lottery to begin with. But with respect to true objectivity, fair goes both ways. We have a week till all applications are due. After that one more week to make all of our decisions. Here's the new proposal:

- Applications from full teams of three must be sent to NAhardcourtworlds2010@gmail.com. Deadline: April 30th. Most important to include in this email is: all three players names, user names, email addresses, region of origin and your team / player list of accomplishments at tournaments.

From May 1- 7 the following will occur:

- the NAH 21 will choose from the submitted applications the top 13, as per the previous plan. These spots are for teams that without question - largely due to tournament performance - are deserving to go.
- The remaining applications will return to their region of origin and be reviewed by the representatives in the region.
- The regional reps will then present up to four applications of teams from their region for consideration.
- NAH will then vote to fill the remaining 14 spots.

On May 9th, the final list of teams going to World's will be announced.

Now, as of right now we only have a total of 13 -15 teams that have submitted applications, both for "merit" and for "lottery" as per the previous process. In the end, everyone that applies may be able to go. But if we do receive an avalanche of applications in the next week, then we submit that this is a reasonable way to proceed.

Important to keep in mind: this is a temporary system to be used for 2010 only. NAH has already begun to discussion to develop a system of weighted tournaments and an individual-based points system for 2011. We ask that you please hold any questions about this new process for the moment as we will be ironing out the details in the coming weeks. But as soon as we finish our proposed system, LOBP will be the first to see it.

Sincerely, thanks to everyone who has contributed to this discussion and stuck with us as we've worked through this difficult task. Get those applications in folks!