Lakeshore Pickleball Association

Determining Your Skill Level

The following guidelines are to be used to initially self assess your skill level. The Board and/or its designate shall be the final arbitrator in determining skill level

Rating 2.5

  • Can sustain longer rallies but not a fast pace
  • Makes most easy shots including backhands, but still needs some work
  • Able to approach the non-volley zone and hit volleys.
  • Aware of dinks
  • Good understanding of the rules
  • Struggles to cover the entire court

Rating 3.0

  • Has a consistent serve and returns medium-paced balls reliably.
  • Able to make all basic strokes. Lacks control when trying to place the ball.
  • Attempts lobs and dinks with limited success.

Rating 3.5

  • Consistent control and placement of medium-paced shots. Able to return fast-paced shots with slightly less success.
  • Improved control and placement of the ball.
  • Needs more shot variety.
  • Can play aggressively at the non-volley zone.
  • Anticipates opponent’s shots.
  • Learning the strategy of doubles play.

Rating 4.0

  • Consistent both forehand and backhand strokes.
  • Can use spin with some success.
  • Can occasionally force errors when serving.
  • May lose rallies due to impatience.
  • Uses the dink and drop shot successfully.
  • Demonstrates 3rd shot strategies.
  • Aggressive net play in doubles.
  • Full understanding of the rules.

Rating 4.5

  • Beginning to master placement and spin.
  • Beginning to master 3rd shot choices.
  • Good footwork and positioning.
  • Adjusts game style to account for opponent’s strengths/weaknesses and court position.
  • Good shot selection. Does not force shots.
  • Serves consistently and can vary speed and spin.
  • Good court positioning. Anticipates opponent’s shot.