i think it can be like:
no lv difference: alternating 1st turn with 1 action point.
1 or more lv difference: alternating between 1 ap and 2 ap at first turn, lower level starts first.
how does that sound?

You're right...
The best thing to do is to look at both sides' mechs and decide the first turn order... but at the same time, this is also the most difficult way...

The tournament won't be for a while.. but sign ups should be soon.. (giving everyone a chance to sign up)
Also I've thought of a unique way that benefits high level players but is fair... You'll have a while to prepare for the tournament though.. anyways.. I'll probably post this tomorrow after a few more people leave comments etc...

I think the 'who goes first' question only comes into play when mechs are equal level.
If one mech is higher level than the other, then lowe level should always start first and always with 2 actions - which is what the computer will give, as normal, right?

If they are equal level, then it would be fair to give alternate starts to each player, each starting with 1 action.
In this case, the computer may not do this and it may be arranged manually with cool down taken by players to get the 'right' alocation of starting actions.

Just to be clear; We are not talking of coding the game differently for the first round of tounament matches, are we?