At the Red Deer Pickleball Club, we are committed to providing a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all our members, regardless of skill level. One of the ways we achieve this is through our organised rated play sessions. These sessions are designed to offer competitive play experiences tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the game at a pace and challenge that suits them.
We recognise that our members have diverse preferences when it comes to playing pickleball. While some prefer a fun, recreational atmosphere, others seek to compete at their highest ability and participate in tournaments.
Rated play is organized for those competitive players who are preparing for tournaments and looking to play at the best quality they can. To maintain the integrity of these sessions, we need to ensure that players participate at their appropriate rating levels. Our calendar includes rated play for 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0+ levels. For example, if you are rated between 2.5 and 2.99, you should join the 2.5 group, and if you are rated between 3.5 and 3.99, you should join the 3.5 group.
We have noticed some issues with members joining rated play sessions at levels higher than their current rating. While we understand the desire to challenge oneself against better players, it is important for everyone to respect the required ratings for these sessions. Playing outside of your rating can disrupt the balance and impact the experience for others. Therefore, we are implementing guidelines to ensure our rated play sessions remain fair and enjoyable for everyone.
Guidelines for Rated Play:
- Respect Your Rating: When signing up for rated play sessions, please ensure you are selecting the appropriate level for your current rating. Playing at your correct level not only ensures a fair game but also helps you improve your skills by competing with similarly rated players.
- Avoid Self-Promotion: Inserting yourself into a higher-level play without the appropriate rating is not allowed. Our rating system is in place to maintain the integrity of the game and ensure a balanced and competitive environment.
- Respect Rated Play Times: Rated play times are designated for members seeking a competitive experience at their skill level. Please respect these times and refrain from joining sessions that are not aligned with your rating.
- Feedback and Re-Rating: If you believe your rating no longer reflects your current skill level, please reach out to our club’s rating committee. We regularly review and adjust ratings to ensure they accurately represent each player’s abilities.
If you would like to learn more about ratings, we have a page on our website to educate you on how they work. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure that every member has a positive and competitive experience during rated play sessions. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to maintaining the high standards of the Red Deer Pickleball Club. Let’s continue to enjoy the game and support each other in our pickleball journey!