Self Assessment Quiz
The sport of Pickleball is growing rapidly and our group numbers have grown tremendously thanks in large part to our volunteers and trainers. With the increase in numbers of players comes a variety of skills and abilities prompting the discussion and value of moving towards a self-rating system. These guidelines will help provide opportunities during organized play for players to play with and against people close to their own skill level and abilities. ​​
As is true for playing in any level, if you are not consistently winning half of the games you play, you are probably in the wrong level.
GC PICKLEBALL CLUB SELF-RATING GUIDELINES
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Beginner (not rated)
I am just learning the game. I know where to stand on the court. I can usually get my serve “in”. I usually let the return of serve bounce. I am getting the hang of keeping score. I can often keep the ball in play. I know what a dink shot is and am trying to use it.
Novice (2.5)
I have the basic rules down. I am capable of hitting basic forehand and backhand shots and can keep short rallies going. I can hit a few shots in a row without making any unforced errors. I am capable of hitting a few dinks in a row. I am trying to add more power and control to my game.
Intermediate (3.0)
I know most of the rules. My serves and returns are almost always “in”. I can sometimes hit a 3rd drop shot. I try to be strategic about how and where I hit the ball. I have a wide variety of shots in my arsenal. I actively work to win the point. I am fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, still working with all strokes and have control when trying for direction, depth, or power on my shots. I attempt lobs. I can sustain a short volley session at the net with varying mobility, quickness and eye-hand coordination.
High Intermediate (3.5)
I know all of the main rules, including how to correct the score and correct server (odd/even). I can often anticipate my opponent’s shots. I am able to finish the point when my opponent gives me an opening. I have consistent control when trying for direction, depth, and power on forehand, backhand and overhead shots. I use aggressive net play, anticipate opponent’s shots and am good at communication and strategy. I am able to hit fewer balls out bounds or into the net. I am consistent with my drop shots and dinks. I almost always play at the no-volley line. I try to be patient and wait for the right shot. I am able to serve and return accurately 8 out of 10 shots. I have good mobility, quickness and eye-hand coordination.
Advanced (3.8)
I can consistently convert a hard shot to a soft shot. I am almost always patient and wait for an opening. I rarely make unforced errors. I consistently use power and finesse to take advantage. I can easily sustain a rally of 20 or more shots. I successfully execute most all shots, can control the depth of my shots and can handle pace. I understand strategy and adjust my style of play according to my opponent’s strengths and weaknesses and position on the court. I consistently execute effective drop shots. I move effectively with my partner, easily switching positions. I can control play at the NVZ and recognize and exploit the weaknesses of opponents.
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Revised January 6, 2025