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Skill Levels and Ratings

​Pickleball has two main rating systems: the traditional USA Pickleball scale (1.0-5.5+), based on descriptive skill levels for self-assessment or organized play, and DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), a global, data-driven system (2.0-8.0) using an algorithm from match results for more accuracy and global consistency, unifying play across ages/genders.

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Benefits of Getting Rated

  • Fair Play & Enjoyment: Play with people at your skill level, leading to more balanced and exciting matches

  • Track Progress: See how your skills improve over time as you move up the rating scale

  • Tournament Entry: Ratings (like DUPR or UTR) are often required for competitive events, ensuring you play in the right division

  • Find Better Partners: Easily find players who match your ability for practice and fun games

  • Set Goals: Understand your weaknesses and set realistic goals to improve your game​​

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Traditional Skill Level (USA Pickleball/PPA)
This system uses descriptive levels to gauge ability, often found in tournaments and clubs. 

  • 1.0 - 2.0: Beginners learning rules, basic shots, and court positioning

  • 2.5 - 3.0: Developing consistency, understanding the non-volley zone (kitchen), and basic strategy

  • 3.5 - 4.0: Stronger strategy, better footwork, and teamwork, with 4.0 players consistently executing tactics

  • 4.5+: Mastery of the game, including advanced strategy, shot variety, and minimal unforced errors; often semi-pro to pro


DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) - Join our BPA Club on DUPR!
A global, unified system with a 2.000 to 8.000 scale that uses match data for dynamic updates. 

  • 2.00 - 3.99: Beginner to intermediate, improving consistency and strategy

  • 4.00 - 4.99: Advanced, with good tactics, movement, and execution

  • 5.00 - 8.00: Elite to professional level

How it works: Analyzes match results (scores, type, recency) to provide an accurate rating, updating automatically.

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Other Systems
UTR-P: A newer system, like DUPR, using a 1-10 scale based on results, aiming for global consistency

 

How to Get Rated

  • Play in DUPR or UTRP-sanctioned tournaments/leagues

  • Submit videos for coach ratings (DUPR)

  • Self-rate using skill descriptions for local play

 

Self Assessment Guide - PDF document from Pickleball Canada​​ for 2.0 to 4.0 level players

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