Tennis is best enjoyed by playing with others of a similar standard and, as well as encouraging members to improve their game,  we try to create sessions that will work for them. To help with this the Club has adopted the LTA definitions below as useful descriptors of players’ standards. They are merely intended as a guide to help members find the right sessions for them and, of course many players will be somewhere between categories. They will not be used to exclude members from any session! If you would like help in finding a suitable session for you, then contact Mary who will be very pleased to advise.

Beginner You've either never played, just started playing or haven't picked up a racket for years. You aren't ready to enter competitions yet but may be thinking of having lessons or joining a group session. You cannot sustain a rally yet and you are working primarily on getting the ball into play. You are learning to judge where the ball is going although court coverage is weak. You are also getting to grips with basic positions for singles and doubles play.

Improver You know the basic techniques and are able to keep a rally going with someone who hits the ball back to you. However, you still make quite a few mistakes and may find serving difficult. You are becoming more consistent when hitting medium pace shots but you are not comfortable with all strokes and lack control when trying to hit with accuracy, depth or power. Your game probably lacks variety but you are developing a tactical approach and awareness of teamwork in doubles. You may have played some matches.

Intermediate You are a decent player. You play regularly and your technique is solid. You try and copy the technique and tactics of the top players but struggle when putting together points against stronger players. You have dependable strokes, including accuracy on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots and volleys with some success. You are able to occasionally force errors when serving. You have begun to master the use of power and spins and are beginning to handle pace, have sound footwork and can control depth of shots. You can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the second serve and are able to work effectively with a partner in doubles.

Experienced You are good. You have played a lot of tennis and can serve with spin, placement and power. You can rally consistently and create opportunities to win points off both your forehand and backhand. You probably compete on a regular basis. You have excellent shot anticipation and court coverage. You can regularly hit winners or force errors off of short balls, can out away volleys, can successfully execute lobs, drop shots, half volleys and smashes, and have good depth and spin on most second serves. You have power and consistency and can vary strategy according to your opponent's strengths and weaknesses.