Set to return June 1 for its third season, the Champaign Singles League offers flexible scheduling, multiple skill divisions, and a pathway to USTA district tennis competition. The league continues to grow for players looking for competitive and need an adaptable schedule.
by Clark BrooksSentinel Sports
CHAMPAIGN - Flexible scheduling, competitive matches and a pathway to district-level play have helped the Champaign Singles League grow into one of the area’s popular summer tennis opportunities as organizers prepare for the league’s third season beginning June 1.
The USTA-run summer league is open to both male and female players, and participants are not required to hold a USTA membership to join. Registration remains open ahead of the season, which runs through Aug. 31.
League commissioner Bret Schrama said the format continues to attract players looking for organized competition without the rigid scheduling often associated with traditional leagues.
“The players set up a date, time and location individually,” Schrama said. “They can opt for shortened match format if they don't have a lot of time or if the weather is really hot.”
The league offers men’s and women’s divisions at the 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 skill levels. The registration fee is $29 per player, and the top two finishers at each level will earn invitations to the USTA Mid-South District playoffs scheduled for September.
While results do not count toward a player’s NTRP rating, scores are entered into the World Tennis Number system.
Last summer, the men’s 3.0 division featured 20 players and was divided into two groups.
“It was broken into two groups,” Schrama said. “So with 10 in a group, each player had nine matches to play.”
The league’s women’s division also returns after completing its inaugural season in 2025. Schrama said organizers are still working to schedule the delayed women’s playoffs from last season.
“We are still planning to hold their playoffs this year sometime soon,” Schrama said. “No dates worked for their group or the Peoria group. Only those two cities are currently participating in the ladies’ league.”
Several local players advanced to district competition last year after finishing atop their respective divisions. In the men’s 3.0 division, Dhruve Ashar and Yannick Kluch earned district berths. Matteo Martinelli and Thomas Wilson advanced from the 3.5 division, while Lorenzo Vergari and Vinod Ramakrishnan represented Champaign in the 4.0 division.
Schrama said players continue to appreciate the league’s affordability, organization and opportunity to compete beyond the local level.
Travis Davis, a longtime USTA player, said the singles format provides a unique test for competitors.
“Playing singles is a great challenge to yourself and it is fun to compete with others,” Davis said. “This league helps challenge your game and lets you meet new opponents.”
Players interested in joining the summer league can contact Schrama at 317-333-3559 or by email at bret@midwest.usta.com.
