Level

Experience

Technique / Ability

Competition

PRO

Is the highest level of play

May retain amateur eligibility if all prize money is deposited with the USRA and applied against expenses

Plays the IRT or LPRA pro tour, Pro/Am, and any tournaments that offer prize money

OPEN

Is classified as the highest level of amateur player

Rated higher than an A player and probably coaches or gives lessons

Plays in most tournaments (local, state, regional and national); Has completed clinics or attended the Elite Camp

A

Is someone who plays regularly and is a top player in the club

Trains regularly; Backhand and forehand strokes are near equal; Good depth, with high shot percentage; No apparent weaknesses; Has perfected the rollout and re-kills opponent’s offensive shots

Competes in sanctioned tournaments; May seek to participate in USRA Elite Camp and has a coach or is seeking a coach

B

Is someone who plays regularly and finds time to practice on his/her own to perfect his/her shots

Has knowledge, court strategy, and positioning in offensive and defensive situations; Selects the proper shot most of the time; Is inconsistent but improving; Developing patience and is able to take tips from better players; Is ready to attempt doubles

Shows interest in lessons and clinics; Plays in most club leagues, tournaments, shuttles, and round robins

C

Is someone who has played over six months, plays frequently and is developing strength in the basics

Can execute most shots with some precision; Knowledge of the game is rising; Can safely attempt ceiling, pinch, and passing shots, and an occasional killshot

Has taken lessons and attended clinics; Has begun to play small tournaments and has a second racquet

D

Is someone who is just beginning to receive instruction but lacks playing experience

Is learning safety rules, forehand and backhand strokes; Experiments with Z serves, backwall shots, angles and passing shots

Is ready to start playing in club leagues and friendly competition