GPN Ratings Adjustment - Dec 2023
In preparation for the upcoming Winter competitive programs, we are making a one-time adjustment to increase GPN ratings to match current club ratings, capped at 3.50.
Why This Change?
- We understand that the calculated ratings have not been able to keep pace as the overall skill level of our members has improved over the last year.
- Member feedback has consistently highlighted concerns regarding calculated ratings.
- We want to ensure every member has a fair chance to improve their rating through competitive play.
- Club ratings are one of the primary tools we use for designing programs and events for members. This adjustment will give us better clarity into our members’ skill distribution.
What This Means for You:
- A more realistic and achievable path to improving your club rating through competitive play.
- Simplified competitive event registration in GPN
We've prepared the following FAQ to help answer your questions. If you would like to know more, please reach out to us at membership@pickleballregina.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything I need to do?
No, just continue to register for events as usual.
Which players will get an adjustment?
Players whose GPN rating is below 3.50, and their GPN rating is less than their Club Rating
What’s the difference between a GPN rating and Club Rating?
GPN ratings track your game results from league, ladder, and tournament games in GPN. Your Club Rating is based on your highest rating from any source. (CTPR, GPN, Skill Assessments, etc).
What will be my new GPN rating?
GPN ratings will be set to match your Club Rating, capped at 3.50
Why is the adjustment capped at 3.50?
We do not want to overcorrect the issue by adding too many rating points into the system. This adjustment is meant to specifically address the rating deflation issue we have observed in GPN.
What is rating deflation? (Source)
The term "deflation" means that in general, calculated ratings for members are below actual skill levels.
What causes rating deflation?
GPN uses an Elo rating system, where each game ends in roughly an equal transaction of rating points. If the winner gains N rating points, the loser will drop by N rating points. This prevents points from entering or leaving the system when games are played and rated.
However, players tend to enter the system as novices with a low rating and retire from the system as experienced players with a high rating. Therefore, in the long run a system with strictly equal transactions tends to result in rating deflation.
When will there be another adjustment like this?
This is a one-time adjustment, but we understand that it may be required sometime in the future and could be revisited.
I still don’t think my rating is accurate, what can I do?
Game results are what drive calculated ratings. Participating in competitive GPN events (Leagues, Ladders & Tournaments) will provide the results needed to more accurately refine your GPN rating.
I was already over 3.5, so how does this benefit me?
The overall deflation problem was likely making it challenging for you to increase your rating through competitive events. We expect that with this adjustment the new points in the system will begin to be distributed throughout all levels, while shifting the average GPN rating higher.
Will this change my program eligibility?
No, you have the same program eligibility as you did before.
Does this affect me if I don’t play in competitive events?
No, not at all. You have the same program eligibility as you did before.
If I can’t maintain my new GPN rating, will you automatically increase it again?
The PRI Programs & Ratings committee will be monitoring the effectiveness of this adjustment as game results get recorded. We are striving to have a system in place where players of all levels can participate in events appropriate for their skill level.
This is fascinating stuff! How do I get more involved?
Reach out to any member of the PRI Board and ask to volunteer for a committee where these ideas are discussed.