An important format change has been approved for the 2001 postseason in Division I women's tennis.

The Division I Championships/Competition Cabinet at its September 12-14 meeting in Atlanta approved a new 3-6 format (three eight-game pro sets in doubles followed by six singles matches) for the women's championships. The format is the one currently used in the Division I men's championships.

The Division I Women's Tennis Committee had recommended the format change based on discussions at its July 10-13 meeting in Indianapolis and, subsequently, received overwhelming support from the coaching community to institute the change for the 2001 season.

By adopting the new format, the committee seeks to shorten the average length of matches, resulting in improved marketability for collegiate tennis and an enhanced student-athlete experience. Further, this format ensures that doubles competition will take place in each match.

For additional information about the format change for this year, contact John Cochrane, NCAA assistant director of championships, at the national office.