Beginner/Novice
New, working hard to learn the rules but still not comfortable playing in a more competitive environment. Improvers may also play here as it is a great place to practice adding shots to your portfolio without pressure.
Improver
You know the rules, you’re playing regularly, you are seeking ways to improve your skill, but consistently winning games against higher skill levels players is a struggle. You are working on drills, you are taking lessons, you are studying game strategy, and you want to progress to the next step.
Low Intermediate
you play regularly, you have several shots in your arsenal, you win games, but compared to other “intermediate” players you are not as successful. Whether this be in a challenge, court format, or in the league. You are starting to be able to carry a team as opposed to being supported by a higher skill player. This might correspond to a 3.0 to 3.5 DUPR rating.
High intermediate
you win a lot of games, you feel confident on the court regardless of who your partner is, you make a lot of key, well placed shots and score winners. You usually win games in the challenge court format or rally, you have competitive matches against other high intermediate players (definition of competitive being your scores are within five point margin consistently). You understand that banging is not the only way to win. You are adding many different shots to your arsenal and when opponents lure you into a dink rally you can hang.
Advanced
you’ve moved your game beyond being a banger, being a banger, does not make you advanced, playing mini tennis, does not make you advanced. Learning how to carefully select and adjust your shots in safe way is a crucial step in transitioning your game from banging to actual advanced level play. Advanced level play is not slamming the ball (often without control) at dangerous speeds into your opponent’s body, or worse head/face. Advanced level players, fully understand game strategy and actively vary their game in each unique situational environment. 4.0 DUPR or passing advanced challenge court required.