## 3. Introductory Phase 

a. Eligibility and Timing 

## AGE ELIGIBILITY AND PLAYER DEVELOPMENT SECTION X - AGE ELIGIBILITY AND PLAYER DEVELOPMENT 

The Introductory Phase begins when a player 18 years of age or younger enters her first WTA Tournament. Requirements for this phase must be completed as she completes the Annual Player Form process and by the end of her first WTA Tournament (WTA 1000, WTA 500, WTA 250, or WTA 125 Tournament). 

b. Introductory Player Requirements 

i. Each player must complete assigned online and/or in-person Player Development coursework and pass an examination covering such material. 

ii. Minimum Educational Requirements 

Each player must submit to the WTA an official certificate from her country of legal resi¬dence verifying that she is meeting or has met her country’s minimum educational requirements. A player must submit updated documentation annually until she reaches 18 years of age. 

iii. Mandatory Physical Examination 

Each player must undergo a mandatory physical examination annually in accordance with Section XVIII.B.1. 

iv. Each player must participate in and pass the SS&M On-Site Activities portion of the ‘Rookie Hours’ Player Orientation. 

v. It is a player’s responsibility to advise the WTA of any changes in her Player Support Team Members, including coach or agent. 

vi. A coach who is nominated by a Player Development player to receive and subsequently applies for a WTA player-coach credential must provide proof of Qualification/Certification from a recognized organization or governing body (e.g., a National Federation, the ITF, PTR). A copy of the current certification or confirmation from the governing body that the coach is current and in good standing will be required to receive a WTA player-coach credential. 

