Pickleball, you’ve heard about it as everyone is talking about it! You go to open play to give it a try, but where do you fit in?
Where do you fit in (level of play) and how can you find other players at your level?
There are four levels of pickleball players, Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced and Professional. Within these broad categories, there are different levels of players, each of which is assigned a numerical number.
Information found on the Levels of Play page will assist you in navigating the process of determining your ability level. For example, a player with a background in a racquet or paddle sport usually starts at the 2.5 level.
Beginner Pickleball Player levels
The broad Beginner level category contains three levels of play starting with level 1.0, and including 1.5, and 2.0. Each one stands out from the others by the skill and precision in executing the basic shots used in pickleball.
Players at a 1.0 level are just thankful they can hit the ball and it stayed in play. They are sometimes confused about how to keep score and where to stand. This is very normal and where most of us start our pickleball journey. It will get easier.
At the 2.0 level, individuals have learned to keep score and where they should be standing for the next point. They are beginning to feel more comfortable with some basic pickleball shots. These include the serve, return of serve and volleys. They still lack higher-level shots like the dink, third shot drop, and the lob during game situations. They also need to increase their consistency with aspects of the game before competing with “More Experienced” players.
Intermediate Pickleball Player Levels
This broad category contains three levels (2.5, 3.0 and 3.5) of play with each one representing a player’s ability to improve their game in both the variety of shots used and the accuracy with which they execute the shot they are attempting during the game. This player understands hard and soft game set ups, they are aware of stacking, and they can sustain medium to short rallies. They are learning about positioning on the court, when to rush the net, and what to expect in an opponent’s next move.
For many players, this level is ideal for competition, as it offers a good challenge for both experienced and novice players.
Most recreational players are in a range from 2.0 to 3.5 which represents the average player and one who truly enjoys pickleball.
Advanced/Professional Pickleball Players
Advanced pickleball players would generally include pickleball players with a rating of 4.0 and 4.5. They have a good understanding of the game and can execute advanced techniques and shots. Some of the advanced techniques and shots that players should know include:
The Reset Shot: This shot is used to buy time for you and your team to get to the kitchen. It is usually the best shot you have while in the transition zone if your opponents are attacking and you’re not able to attack back. It also buys you and your partner time to get back to a steady position.
The Angled Put Away: At advanced levels, many players can get back most shots that you normally would be able to put away at lower or intermediate levels. To ensure that your overheads do not come back, you will have to learn to angle your put away.
The Ernie: This shot requires speed and coordination. Your feet are jumping and avoiding the kitchen line while aiming your paddle to hit the ball at an angle.
The Body Shot: Aimed at the shoulder or hips because your arms and paddles must move awkwardly to block the shot.
The Dink: This shot is where the game of pickleball is won and lost. Used it to slow down the game and force your opponents to hit up on the ball.
Improve Your Game and Rating!
Improve your game by:
- Taking lessons from a professional instructor (listed under the Improve your Game page).
- Practice the skills the instructor teaches you.
- Play against more advanced players.
Note: A player rated 4.0 and above is considered at the highly advanced/professional level. Typically, you will not see them on local courts during open play.