CLUB GRADING
CLUB GRADING
Our club grading is an evolving program.
We aim to offer a clear, fair and inclusive approach to competitive play at BBPC, that promotes development at all levels, and supports the club’s strategic goals while fostering a thriving, engaged membership.
With a proactive plan to address concerns and minimise committee burden, our goal is to set a strong foundation for the future of pickleball in our Byron community.
OBJECTIVES
GRADING-BASED COMPETITIVE PLAY PROGRAM
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: there is no change to existing social play. Social play remains open to all members and visitors.
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
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.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
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
KEY BENEFITS
HOW IT WORKS
Certified coach (and club coach) Scott Tawse will grade players at dedicated sessions, using the USPA ratings guidelines as a general criteria guide, overlayed with his knowledge of the game and experience.
During one 7-minute double game, players being graded 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.
For the 7-minute match, ideally each player 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.
To participate in a grading session, keep an eye on OpenSports and announcements in the BBPC social and Whatsapp channels.
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.
ANTICIPATING & ADDRESSING CONCERNS
GRADING-BASED COMPETITIVE PROGRAM
