I just checked and yes, TD can deal predefined hands to team matches. One obstacle less. Not that in this format that would be needed, as only 1 Team Match is running at the time.
When we run trnys, 12 boards are done within more or less 1 hour. So, 3 times 8 boards would take around 2 hours, with reseats and all. But, imho, 3 times 6 boards is just fine too. (funny to mention that back in spades we'd run 3 times 8 boards in 50 mins approx).
Also, when I said total points, it could be IMP's sum, or total, does not matter. All but MP or Bam as they assure ties. I don’t think this idea is based on pure luck. Lemme give an example with pairs signed up in ladder. So: Pair A = nekthen & Friizi // Pair B = thornbury & jojah45 // Pair C= southuist & slamgoing // Pair D= Kusum_P & ruth_p . Please see the scheme at:
http://tinypic.com/r/28wpi6s/9 That way, every pair will be exactly once in team with each other pair, and have other 2 as opposition. I'd think luck factor is pretty much minimized here. And since Monster Points are worth nothing, why not give them to any kind of competitive play within club if that would add salt and pepper and attract players?
I only suggested it to be Team Match as I am unsure if we can set trny with this kind of rotation. Also, I must admit I share your concern of having 8 (what a huge number) of people commit to be there. And I agree with Pam that it would have to be some pre-set time, for example sundays noon eastern, while Team Series is on hold.
Anyways, this was just an idea to fill as it seems pretty empty schedule IAC will offer over summer.