Background
BBPC is implementing a structured and inclusive programme of competitive play based on a player grading system. The goal is to match players of similar skill levels, ensuring enjoyable, balanced, and developmentally appropriate games for all members.
Note: No change to existing social play. Social play remains open to all members and visitors.
Objectives
- Encourage and support competitive play for all levels
- Promote continuous player development in a positive and structured environment
- Align with BBPC’s strategic goals outlined in the Annual Report:
- Inclusive programmes for all skill levels
- Meaningful competitive opportunities
- Support for individual player development
- Clear and motivating competitive pathways
Programme Overview
- Adopt the USA Pickleball Skill Level Matrix as the grading foundation, ensuring consistency with international standards
- Make the grading criteria fully transparent and freely available to all members
- Players must be of the requisite level to play in graded play sessions, proving this EITHER by attending a club grading session OR having the appropriate DUPR rating with a reliability score greater than 90.
- Engage an external professional grader/coach to conduct regular grading sessions, removing workload from committee members and ensuring objectivity of grading.
- Grading is subsidised by the club, with members covering a portion of the cost
- Each grading includes personalised feedback to support individual progress
- Members will be encouraged to use the club ball machine and other training resources to improve areas identified during grading
- Graded play sessions will be implemented to ensure fair matchups and a positive playing experience for all participants
- Grading supports developmental opportunities for tailored group coaching and level based skills and drills sessions.
Key Benefits
- Inclusive and supportive environment: All players, from beginners to advanced, have a clear pathway for growth
- Fair and balanced match-ups: Improves game quality and enjoyment by ensuring players are matched appropriately
- Increased player confidence and engagement: Feedback and development plans help members track their progress and stay motivated
- Greater club professionalism: Structured grading reflects positively on BBPC and may attract new members and external partnerships
- Stronger retention and community culture: Players are more likely to remain active when they see ongoing improvement and opportunity
- Reduced pressure on committee: By outsourcing grading, we free up volunteer time and ensure consistency in assessments
- More meaningful competitions: Graded divisions increase fairness and satisfaction in competitive play
Grading Execution
- The club will engage two professional pickleball players/coaches to run the initial grading sessions
- Two people will be graded by the two graders over a 7 minute doubles match
- The USPA ratings guidelines will be used as a general guide for grading, however graders will overlay their knowledge of the game and experience when grading
- Graded players will play against a selection of 3.5/4.0+ players (“hitting partners”) at the club
- After the 7 minute match players will receive their grade and verbal feedback on areas of development
- Each player’s grade will be recorded by the club
- Ideally players will be paired by skill level, age and gender. Age and gender will also be considered for the “hitting partners”
- The range of grades are as follows: 2.5, 3.0, 3.25, 3.5, 3.75, 4.0, 4.25, 4.5
- In time as the DUPR rating system matures, the club will investigate using the DUPR system and ratings to manage graded play
- The next grading sessions will be run on 8 November - members can choose a 1-hour timeslot between 10am-12pm by booking on OpenSports.
Anticipating and Addressing Concerns
We recognise that any new system may raise questions or concerns.
‘’I don’t want to be judged or ranked.’’
Grading is not about judgment — it’s a tool for self-improvement and positive guidance. There’s no obligation to participate unless players wish to enter competitions or join graded play sessions.
“This feels exclusive or elitist.”
The grading system is designed to be inclusive and supportive of all skill levels. Participation is optional, and all members are encouraged to grow at their own pace. Beginners will continue to have ample playing opportunities.
“It’s another cost for members.”
The club will subsidise grading costs, and members will receive real value through personalised feedback and development plans. This is a long-term investment in member satisfaction and player growth.
“Why not let people self-select their level?”
Self-selection can lead to mismatched games and frustration. Grading ensures fairness, safety, and better experiences for all involved. It’s a supportive, not punitive, process.
“Can I use this grading as a guide to enter tournaments?”
Yes, and this is a primary reason for BBPC to ensure we are using the USA Pickleball Skill Level matrix. This grading system is the same as the basis used for DUPR rankings and thus your grade from a club grading session should closely approximate your best tournament bracket entry level.
“If I miss a grading session then how soon is the next one likely to be? How long should I wait before being regraded if I believe I am improving and want to move to the next level?”
Initially the Club will endeavour to ensure that the next grading session is within two months of the first session on 12 October. In general the club recommends at least two months between grading sessions for players.
Conclusion
This grading-based programme offers a clear, fair, and inclusive approach to competitive play at BBPC. It promotes development at all levels, supports the club’s strategic goals, and fosters a thriving, engaged membership. With a proactive plan to address concerns and minimise committee burden, this proposal aims to set a strong foundation for the future of pickleball in our community.
