Introduction to Club Rating Assessments
A player’s rating is determined by his or her skill level. Ratings are very subjective and sometimes personal and this guide is meant to guide our club to a consistent level of ratings. Most clubs divide play between levels of players to ensure that participants are allowed to play with players of a similar level, offering a better chance that the individuals will have a competitive and fun match. Determination of this level can be controversial as players often believe that they are at a higher level than their skills dictate.
We ask you to take the time to consider these skill level guidelines and form your own view of the level you believe you have achieved to date. We anticipate that your skill levels will improve over time which in turn will improve your rating.
NBPA Skill Level Guidelines
When you have ticked the skills which you believe you have mastered, please enter your name and click the SUBMIT button. Your answers will be reviewed by the committee and adjusted if necessary after discussion with you.
Read this blog post first if you are unsure of some of the pickleball terminology.
Helpful links:
What is a dink? (4-5 minute video)
What is a 3rd shot drop? (4-5 minute video)
When to use a 3rd shot drive instead of a 3rd shot drop? (4-5 minute video)
How do you refigure (keep track of) the score? (PDF)
4.5 and 5.0 Skill Level
The 4.5 player is distinguished from the 4.0 player by increased skills, a higher level of strategy, quickness of hands, judicious use of power, superior placement of shots and consistently fewer unforced errors. The 5.0 player is even more consistent in all skills than the 4.5 player with very few, if any, unforced errors.
* If a person cannot move quickly enough due to physical restrictions, then a rating will be reduced according to the physical limitations as related to playing the game.
