On the subject of unrated players or those with low ratings ~ I recently picked up an open game with another player and lost, but don't mind doing that as fun comes first with me. When I offerd a return game I was declined because my ratings aren't high enough!! I think that stinks. It isn't the first time I have come across this, and it probably won't be the last. When playing these games cease to be fun I will stop playing them.
As far as tournaments on Nooks and Crannies go ~ ratings/rankings are irrelevant. FUN comes first. So anyone who wants to sign up, please feel free to do so.