As you explore the world of pickleball and fall deeper in love with the sport, you may find yourself looking for more opportunities to play, to improve your game, or to test yourself against greater competition. As the sport grows, more and more of these opportunities arise. This article will give you a jumping off point to finding new chances to play and improve.
Competition and Tournaments
Most professional pickleball tournaments are handled by USA Pickleball or the Pro Pickleball Tour (PPA). While the large majority of pickleball players won’t compete at a professional level, many will want to play in organized competition. Fortunately, there is a broad variety of leagues and tournaments in most areas where the game is popular.
One good first place to start looking is in online pickleball communities and groups. These groups can be found on community websites or social media. They are usually welcoming of new members and regularly advertise play sessions. They also may advertise local tournaments, which are great opportunities for players of all skill levels to compete.
You can also check with your local government recreation department and facilities, which sometimes offer organized leagues and tournaments. Independent pickleball gyms and clubs also have regular leagues and tournaments that are open for signup. Look up pickleball clubs near you to find new league or tournament announcements.
Pickleball tournaments are also occasionally organized individually for special events like regional businesses or celebrations.
If you are interested in joining a pickleball league or tournament, you’ll want to enter at a skill level that is appropriate for you.
Pickleball Skill Levels
To help players of various levels easily find and identify opponents of similar on-court ability, there is an organized system of pickleball skill ratings. Playing against players at the same or similar skill rating will allow for balanced competition that’s fun for both sides.
Pickleball skill ratings range from 1.0 to 5.5, and players increase in skill level as they become more experienced and develop greater ability.
1.0 to 2.0 is a beginner skill rating for people just learning the game.
3.0 is a rating for players who are comfortable with the game and getting into competitive play. 3.5 players demonstrate increased consistency and strategy.
4.0 and 4.5 are skilled players who can consistently perform in competitive leagues and tournaments.
5.0 is a skill rating for top-tier players, and 5.5+ is usually for the best players in the world.
You can determine your skill rating by examining them further here and by playing in organized tournaments and leagues. When you are consistently winning games in one skill level, it may be time to move into a higher level!
If you’ve caught pickleball fever, don’t worry, because as the game grows there are more and more opportunities to play and compete. Check your local clubs and groups for leagues and tournaments and soon you may find yourself racing down the road to pickleball glory!
