When you sign up for the 24/7 DINK app, it will ask you to select beginner, intermediate, or advanced. This is what will show up next to your name when you sign up for activities within the app. So how do you know what level you are? People who have never played before will most of the time know they are a beginner, but the other lines may be more blurry. Here is 24/7 DINK’s guide to skill level:

1.0 – 2.0: Beginner

• Just learning the game.

• Limited understanding of rules and scoring.

• Inconsistent serves and returns.

2.5: Novice

• Understands basic rules and can keep score.

• Can sustain short rallies.

• Developing control and placement.

• Often plays with other beginners.

3.0: Intermediate

• Comfortable with all basic shots: serve, return, dink, volley.

• Attempts drop shots and dinks regularly.

• Moves to the non-volley zone (kitchen) with intent.

• Still inconsistent under pressure.

3.5: Advanced Intermediate

• More consistent shots with some placement.

• Can sustain dinking rallies.

• Starts recognizing strategy (e.g., stacking, targeting weak opponents).

• Uses drop shots to approach net.

4.0: Advanced

• Consistently hits strong serves and returns.

• Effectively uses third-shot drops or drives.

• Recognizes and exploits opponents’ weaknesses.

• Communicates well in doubles and uses advanced strategies.

4.5 – 5.0: Expert

• High-level control, spin, and shot selection.

• Rarely makes unforced errors.

• Fast reactions at the net.

• Competes in higher-level tournaments.

5.5+: Pro / Elite

• Competes in national tournaments or the PPA/APP tours.

• Mastery of all skills, mental game, and high-pressure performance.

You can always come in and have one of our coaches evaluate your skill level for free by watching you play!