Pickleball Skill Levels for Arranged Play

The purpose of arranging a game with players of a similar level is to gain experience and hone your skills within your comfort zone of play and at a time that works for you.  This could apply to ALL levels of play – from beginner to the top competitive level.

For example, players who have completed the training classes could move into the C Player category and begin strengthening their skills.  Also, more experienced players who wish to take their game to the next level have the advantage of identifying others who could help them advance to the next category of play.

This is an optional service available to members of the HSV Pickleball Club.

If you would like to be part of a self-rated list of pickleball players so that you and others can call each other to arrange a specific play date, here’s how to make it happen:

1.      Use the descriptions below to find your self-rated skill level.

2.      Click on Contact Us, and send us your name and chosen skill level/rating.  (You can change your selected level at any time using this same method.)

3.      Check back here to find the list of other players who have submitted their rating information.

4.      When you find players you’d like to contact, use the Member List to find telephone or email information.  (We will not post member phone numbers and email information on the website.)

5.      Make that call, arrange for a play date, and have fun!

Rating & Descriptions

Note:  These descriptions have been modified from rating descriptions used in Florida's Winter Senior Pickleball Leagues to better reflect perceived skill levels within the HSV Pickleball Club:

Novice Players

These players are able to keep quite a few balls going with their forehands, make most easy volleys, and are beginning to make some backhands but need to work more on developing their strokes.  They are thinking more about coming up to the non-volley zone to hit volleys and are making an effort to be more aggressive.  [Note: This category is the perfect next step for beginner players who have completed the training classes.]

Intermediate Players

These players have achieved dependable stroke dependability with directional control on most medium speed balls and some harder hit balls.  They can use lobs, overheads, approach shots and volleys with some success and occasionally force errors when serving. They still need to develop more depth and variety with their shots, but are exhibiting more aggressive net play, are anticipating their opponent's shots better, and are developing teamwork in doubles.

Advanced Players

These players have developed their use of power and spin, can successfully execute all shots, can control the depth of their shots, and can handle pace.  They have sound footwork and they move well enough to get to the non-volley zone whenever required.  They understand strategy and can adjust their style of play according to their opponent's strengths and weaknesses and their position on the court.  They can hit serves with power and accuracy and can also vary the speed and spin of the serve if desired.