The primary
goal of rating is to help all tennis players enjoy the game by
providing a
method of classifying skill levels for more compatible matches, group
lessons,
league play, tournaments and other programs.
The rating
categories are generalizations about skill levels. You may find that you
actually play above or below the category which best describes your skill
level, depending on your competitive ability. The category you chose is not
meant to be permanent, but may be adjusted as your skills change or as your
match play demonstrates the need for reclassification.
Players must
rate themselves in accordance with NTRP. When players are rating themselves and
they question at which level they should play. They should place themselves in
the higher level of play.
A. Begin with 1.5. Read all the categories carefully and then decide which one best describes your present ability level. Be certain that you qualify on all points of all preceding levels as well as those in the level you chose.
B. When rating yourself assume you are playing against a player of the same gender
and the same ability.
1.5
You have limited experience and are working primarily on getting the ball in play.
2.0
You lack court experience and your strokes need developing. You are familiar with the
basic positions for singles and doubles play.
2.5
You are learning to judge where the ball is going, although your court coverage is
limited. You can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same
ability.
3.0
You are fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, but are not comfortable with
all strokes and lack execution when trying for directional control, depth, or power. Your
most common doubles formation is one-up, one-back.
3.5
You have achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate
shots, but need to develop depth and variety. You exhibit more aggressive net play,
have improved court coverage and are developing teamwork in doubles.
4.0
You have dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand
and backhand sides on moderate-paced shots. You can use lobs, overheads,
approach shots and volleys with some success and occasionally force errors when
serving. Rallies may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.
4.5
You have developed your use of power and spin and can handle pace. You have
sound footwork, can control depth of shots, and attempt to vary game plan according to
your opponents. You can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the
second serve. You tend to over hit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in
doubles.
5.0
You have good shot anticipation and frequently have an outstanding shot or attribute
around which a game may be structured. You can regularly hit winners or force errors
off of short balls and can put away volleys. You can successfully execute lobs, drop
shots, half volleys, overhead smashes, and have good depth and spin on most second
serves.
5.5
You have mastered power and/or consistency as a major weapon. You can vary
strategies and styles of play in a competitive situation and hit dependable shots in a
stress situation.
6.0
to 7.0
You have had intensive training for national tournament competition at the junior and
collegiate levels and have obtained a sectional and/or national ranking.
7.0
You are a world-class player.