Chaos: That is true. I have just been playing in a fast espionage team tournament, invited by the captain to join his team. As I had no fast espionage rating at the time, I was paired with all the other low rated players. 12/12 easy wins :)
But I do agree with Eric as well, it would be much easier and less work if the entry was open. Is it possible to eject people just before the tournament start if they have not met the criteria?
As to when, well firstly need to find someone, then teach them so that they will at least beat your and Eric's student End January, beginning February?