**Number of ways the first three positions can be won in DDCA tournaments**

To determine the number of ways the first three positions can be won in DDCA tournaments, we need to consider the 15 state level clubs that are participating. Let's break down the problem into smaller steps to find the solution.

1. **Choosing the first position**:
- There are 15 clubs participating, so there are 15 potential candidates for the first position.
- Therefore, there are 15 ways to choose the first position.

2. **Choosing the second position**:
- After the first position is chosen, there are 14 clubs remaining for the second position.
- Therefore, there are 14 ways to choose the second position.

3. **Choosing the third position**:
- After the first and second positions are chosen, there are 13 clubs remaining for the third position.
- Therefore, there are 13 ways to choose the third position.

4. **Total number of ways**:
- To find the total number of ways the first three positions can be won, we multiply the number of ways for each position.
- Total number of ways = number of ways for the first position * number of ways for the second position * number of ways for the third position.
- Total number of ways = 15 * 14 * 13 = 2730 ways.

Thus, there are a total of 2730 ways in which the first three positions can be won in DDCA tournaments with 15 state level clubs participating.

By following the above steps, we have explained in detail how to determine the number of ways the first three positions can be won in DDCA tournaments.