WHAT'S MY PICKLEBALL LEVEL?
TennisBear uses a 9-level system, from Level 1 (first time) to Level 9 (professional).
Each level maps to a DUPR rating band, so you can use your DUPR to find the right level.
LEVEL GUIDE
First time
You have never played pickleball, or have only tried it once or twice.
You are still learning the rules and terms such as the kitchen, dinking, and serving.
Beginner
You can serve, return, and volley at a basic level.
You can hit simple dinks, but shots are not yet consistent.
Novice
You are comfortable playing games and can choose between forehand and backhand.
You can hit simple overheads.
Advanced beginner
You understand the rules of the game well.
On the third shot you can choose between a drive and a drop depending on the situation.
Intermediate
You build rallies with a clear tactical intent.
Your dinks are consistent and you can attack when the ball sits up.
Upper intermediate
You switch between attack and defence quickly and read your opponents' movement.
You have a wide range of tactics to draw on.
Advanced
You stay consistent even in fast exchanges at the net.
You are strong mentally and good at outmanoeuvring opponents.
Expert
Among the strongest players in Japan.
Your reaction speed, shot selection, and precision are all at a high level.
Professional
A level beyond what TennisBear can measure.