I've organized a couple of tournies where players change their mind and decide to withdraw before the tournament starts.  Is there any way a system can be devised so that replacements can be found?

I guess that would all depend on how far along the tournament has gone. If it is still in the early stages, it might be simple to replace a player who withdraws with a new player. Obviously that player might have to accept the fact that other players will have more points and that it might not be possible to catch up.

freezenyr wrote:

I've organized a couple of tournies where players change their mind and decide to withdraw before the tournament starts.  Is there any way a system can be devised so that replacements can be found?

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 It should be possible to devise a system whereby those that withdraw before the start simply leave a vacant slot waiting to be filled by someone else. Indeed, this is the way tournaments work on at least one other chess website. If a player withdraws before the tournament starts his place simply becomes available again. Once the required number of players is reached the tournament is locked sowithdrawal is not possible and play starts automatically. Once started, the only way out is to resign any games involved.

JoseO wrote: I guess that would all depend on how far along the tournament has gone. If it is still in the early stages, it might be simple to replace a player who withdraws with a new player. Obviously that player might have to accept the fact that other players will have more points and that it might not be possible to catch up.

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He specified : BEFORE THE TOURNAMENT STARTS.

I think once a tournament is in progress players that withdraw should not be replaced, it becomes too complicated. I also think that players who do withdraw from tournies often shouldnt be allowed to play any tourney for a period of time to discourage people from withdrawing without very good reason.