Next Paddle Up

Next Paddle Up

Next Paddle Up (NPU) is a popular event that enables all levels to play together and enjoy the games. Below are general instructions.

How to Play

  • Sign-up is necessary especially as more players return.
  • One or more players should step up to run it and explain the game.
  • All players put their paddle in the paddle rack.
  • When the last position on the rack is taken, paddles start again in the first slot, move clip.
  • Game begins by sending 4 players at a time out to all open courts.
  • Games are played to 9 if players are waiting, or 11 as normal
  • Winners stay on court and split up.
  • Losers leave the court and put paddles in next open slots on paddle rack.
  • Next two players on rack are sent out to play with the game winners.
  • Players may break at any time (do not put paddle in rack).
  • Players may arrive at any time.
  • Players may leave at any time.
  • Option: With 8-10 players mix it up to avoid playing against the same people.

*For every court being used, 2 players should be waiting. If 8 courts are in use 16 players should wait and not take off to a different court. Normally there is a constant roll of players going on and off the courts.

How to Play Condensed Version

Next Paddle Up (All Skill Levels on All Courts) is a fun event for all skill levels to play together. Players place their paddles in the paddle rack(s), using the clip to identify the next players up. 2 (winners) stay in and split and 2 (losers) go out.

Addendum to NPU

In general, when players are winners, the winners stay on court and split up, to be joined by the first two players in the paddle rack. In order to maximize all players’ opportunities to play, it is suggested that after two wins on the court, those players voluntarily step off the court and allow others the chance to play. Those former winners should place their paddles in the paddle rack behind the last paddles there.

If a player decides to sit out, they should hold onto their paddles until they are ready to resume play, at which time they can place their paddles in

TO ALL MEMBERS. In the Friday Fix Oct 27, 2023 the various levels of Pickleball play were explained in detail based on official USAPA ratings by numbers.

Based on these explanations the Scheduling Committee came up with a fair and equitable plan for Prime Time (9-11am) play that will accommodate the majority of members at various skill levels.

The committee agreed that the use of Levels A B C D will be the "go to" description in the DEN schedule. These letters closely align with USAPA skill levels and are detailed below. The difference isthat you as a player in Timber Pines will self rate and decide what level fits you best.

The committee concluded that offering Next Paddle Up (NPU) to all levels at 9am allows an equal opportunity for players to join a group of similar skills, as well as playing at a higher or lower level.

Beginning NOVEMBER 6, 2023, the 9-11am time slot EVERY DAY will change to:

  • Court #1-4 NPU LEVEL A - limit 24
  • Court #5-8 NPU LEVEL B - limit 24
  • Court #9-11 NPU LEVEL C - limit 24.
  • Court #3-4 NPU Level D - 1-3pm, Friday - limit 12
  • Court #1-2 NPU Level D - 7-9pm, Monday - limit 12

No one can be prohibited from playing any level. We are hoping players will self-rate where they belong, yet occasionally take a chance at a higher level. If you are consistently losing at a level, it is an indicator that you should move down. If you are consistently winning at a level, it is an indicator you should move up.

Recognize that physical restrictions come and go and can hinder mobility resulting, in a lower rating. Regardless of ability, the various skill levels offer every member court access at the 9am Prime Time every day!

EXPLANATION OF SELF- RATINGS

For purposes of determining which playing level is the best fit for TPPC pickleball players, you are asked to self-rate yourselves per the rating descriptions below. When playing with others at "your level" you should expect your wins and losses to be relatively equal. As you progress and improve as a player you may want to, and should, try competing with players in the next level up. Likewise, if you find it difficult to compete at a level where your losses are far more frequent than wins, you should move down a level.

LEVEL - D

  • New player with understanding of the game and rules
  • Can hit the ball back and forth a bit. Learning to serve
  • Fails to hit easy balls frequently
  • Beginning to learn the basic rules such as scoring, lines, side outs, etc.

LEVEL - C

  • Sustains short rallies
  • Makes basic strokes such as forehand, backhand, volley, and serving
  • Understands court positioning and doubles rules
  • Can sustain longer rallies but not a fast pace
  • Makes most easy shots including backhands, but still needs some work
  • Able to approach the non-volley zone and hit volleys
  • Aware of dinks
  • Good understanding of the rules
  • Struggles to cover the entire court
  • Has a consistent serve and returns medium-paced balls reliably
  • Able to make all basic strokes
  • Lacks control when trying to place the ball
  • Attempts lobs and dinks with limited success

LEVEL - B

  • Consistent control and placement of medium-paced shots
  • Able to return fast-paced shots with slightly less success
  • Improved control and placement of the ball
  • Needs more shot variety
  • Can play aggressively at the non-volley zone
  • Anticipates opponent's shots
  • Learning the strategy of doubles play
  • Attempts third shot drops with limited success
  • Dinks with moderate success
  • Have all skill levels of a Level C player

LEVEL - A

  • Consistent forehand and backhand strokes
  • Can use spin with some success
  • Can occasionally force errors when serving
  • May lose rallies due to impatience
  • Uses the dink and drop shot successfully
  • Demonstrates 3rd shot strategies
  • Aggressive net play in doubles
  • Full understanding of the rules
  • Beginning to master placement and spin
  • Beginning to master 3rd shot choices
  • Good footwork and positioning
  • Adjusts game style to account for opponent's strengths/weaknesses and court position
  • Good shot selection. Does not force shots
  • Serves consistently and can vary speed and spin
  • Good court positioning. Anticipates opponent's shot
  • Mastered all shot types
  • Excellent shot anticipation
  • Accurate shot placement
  • Forces errors. Limits their own unforced errors
  • Mastered different strategies and can vary play style

TPPCI Scheduling Committee TPPCI Board of Directors Oct 29, 2023