Beginners / 1.0-1.5 USTA / ALTA-C :
Player has never played tennis before and never had a lesson/class. Players do not know their skills or abilities
Advanced Beginners / 2.0-2.5 USTA / ALTA-C
Player has some skills and abilities, with some knowledge of court rules, or is unsure. Player lacks experience and training. Player is still developing basic skills.
Intermediates / USTA 3.0-3.5 / ALTA – C & B
Player has skills and abilities at an intermediate level. He/She still needs more training and experience. Player plays ALTA and may or may not have a USTA ranking. Player is training for school teams or plays on a recreation league.
Advanced Intermediates / USTA 3.5 – 4.0 / ALTA-B
Player has more match experience, training, and has improved skills and abilities. Player is still improving through training for tournaments and matches. Player plays ALTA and USTA tournaments. May or may not have a USTA ranking. Player might be on their school team or has done well in recreational leagues.
Advanced /USTA 4.0- 4.5 / ALTA B & A
Players can demonstrate all necessary skills and abilities. Player has singles and doubles strategies. Player is still learning how to win at tournaments or matches. Player is on their ALTA, USTA, or school teams. Player is learning and preparing to become a tennis athlete and tournament player. Player is working on developing his/her skills to reach a world class level.
Tournament Players / USTA 4.5 – 5.5 / ALTA A & AA
Player wins tournaments and leagues, or is a finalist. Player has a ranking or is playing to obtain a local, state, regional, or national ranking. Player is looking to play for colleges or to be recruited into the NAIA, or an NCAA college team. Players may have one or a couple of world class shots or skills. Players have strong strategies that help them win matches and tournaments.
List of Skills & Abilities
* Forehand grip, Backhand grip, Continental grip
* Forehand & Backhand Ground Strokes
* Top Spin, Under Spin, Side Spin
* Forehand & Backhand Volley
* Serve & Overheads
* Return of Serve
* Movement & Foot Work
* Keeping score for a tennis match
* Fitness, training & health knowledge
* Strategies for Singles & Doubles
* Changing grips during play
* Mental toughness, focus & drive to win