Approximately 15 years ago, the Region established the Tournament Committee and the Division Coordinator system to ensure fairness and impartiality in filling tournaments.  This was new ground for the Region, and there were some concerns about how to pay for this new innovation.  It was decided that the Tournament Committee should be self-supporting; that is, the system should pay for itself, and its funds would not come from individual or team registration fees or from any other Region financial source.  To fund the program, it was decided that each team playing would be assessed a fee—a Sanction Fee—which would be paid by the Tournament Host to the Region.  Sanction fees are included when a host makes out his/her cost sheet for the tournament.  The fee is passed on to the participating teams as part of their entry fee.

Where does this money go?  The Team Sanction Fee covers the cost of administering and managing your Tournament Committee Program.  Administrative and management costs include, but are not limited to, Division Coordinator operating expenses such as mailing and postage, office supplies, and reimbursement at the end of each season for services rendered as well as any expenses incurred by the Tournament Committee Chair.  We have been able to “hold the line” on Sanction Fees over the past few years due to the Division Coordinator’s increased use of electronic communications systems such as email and fax machines.  And, we hope to be able to continue to hold the line as much as possible in the future as our ability to take advantage of information technology developments also increases.  And last, but not least, never hesitate to contact me with any questions concerning costs associated with any of our tournaments.   Your questions are always welcome!