Argh!!!!

[QuietDaze]

Can someone please tell me why I am struggling so much with 3.0- players?? (of course, not since no one knows me...) Is there that big of a difference between 2.5 and 3.0-? When I was 2.5 I killed everyone (except for one 3 setter) that was in the KSwiss league. Now I'm playing in my other singles league and they are 3.0- and I'm losing! I can understand the first loss and this woman was the one who Exposed my lack of a decent backhand. This does not explain my other loss to a pusher or my OTHER loss where my backhand actually wasn't bad and I won a few points off of it.

Maybe I'm putting too much pressure on myself but does anyone know if there's a major difference from 2.5 to 3.0-?

 

[Nuke]

It's the Peter Principle in action.

 

[harleywilson]

Is that Peach tennis? The difference between 2.5 and 3.0- is somewhat larger than others I think. I think you put your finger on it. 3.0- people in Atlanta have ball control and can begin to exploit things, like backhands. Since there are more people in Kswiss the differences are probably somewhat smaller than they would be in Peach. If you killed everyone at 2.5 in Kswiss you'll probably do ok in 3.0- Kswiss

 

[raiden031]

The 2.5 is a very narrow skill level that people can come out of within a few months. I was probably a 2.5 player for a total of about 2 months, whereas I've been a 3.0 player for years. A 3.0 player can range from seeming extremely bad to pretty good (but still inconsistent). There are 3.0 players that I could probably beat 6-0, 6-0 during most matches, and there are 3.0 players that could beat me most matches, although with more competitive scores. Sounds like you recently came out of 2.5 and are facing some of the better 3.0 players.

 

[QuietDaze]

It's the Peter Principle in action.

I can't accept that I topped out at 2.5!!! NO WAY.

 

[raiden031]

I can't accept that I topped out at 2.5!!! NO WAY.

Nobody really tops out at 2.5, unless they have no athleticism whatsoever. If you keep playing, you will improve to at least a 3.0. However whether you top out at 3.0 depends on your motivation to improve to higher levels, which means you have to take pro-active steps to improve your game instead of ignoring it and just hoping that match experience will make you improve.

 

[QuietDaze]

Is that Peach tennis? The difference between 2.5 and 3.0- is somewhat larger than others I think. I think you put your finger on it. 3.0- people in Atlanta have ball control and can begin to exploit things, like backhands. Since there are more people in Kswiss the differences are probably somewhat smaller than they would be in Peach. If you killed everyone at 2.5 in Kswiss you'll probably do ok in 3.0- Kswiss

Yup, it's Peach. Peach has been giving me a hard way to go. Okkkk I see what you're saying about the number of people. And yes, now that you say it, you're right about control because I have decent forehand control and hardly any of my KSwiss opponents did. I've got to do something and quick. I'm going to a clinic tomorrow night and we have lessons scheduled for next week but I'm really flustered.

 

[Topaz]

In the women's league in NOVA there is a *huge* variance in 3.0 players. Like Raiden mentioned, 2.5 is a more narrow field that you can move out of pretty easily. There are 3.0s who play more toward a 3.5 level, and 3.0s who play more toward a 2.5 level.

Another difference I notice here is that, in 3.0, players are starting to develop slice and spin, use strageties, and in singles, develop some consistency and placement.

It is a step up, and it will help your game, even if you are losing matches. But if you keep at it (and I think you will) eventually you will start winning matches.

 

[harleywilson]

Yup, it's Peach. Peach has been giving me a hard way to go. Okkkk I see what you're saying about the number of people. And yes, now that you say it, you're right about control because I have decent forehand control and hardly any of my KSwiss opponents did. I've got to do something and quick. I'm going to a clinic tomorrow night and we have lessons scheduled for next week but I'm really flustered.

Hey, dont get flustered. Take lessons and go git 'em!!! You haven't been playing long.

 

[QuietDaze]

Nobody really tops out at 2.5, unless they have no athleticism whatsoever. If you keep playing, you will improve to at least a 3.0. However whether you top out at 3.0 depends on your motivation to improve to higher levels, which means you have to take pro-active steps to improve your game instead of ignoring it and just hoping that match experience will make you improve.

I was hoping that Nuke was being sarcastic with his Peter Principle remark. I am definitely not topped out. I need lessons that's for sure because I've been getting over on speed and a forehand. I just couldn't understand what could possibly be such a major difference between 2.5 and 3.0- that I would be losing. Badly. My matches were closer when I played the same level of Peach last year even though I lost every single one. (which is why I'm back at the same level) But no, I don't want to stay on a beginner level, I want to improve as much as I possibly can. I probably have some pretty lofty goals but I want to be great.

 

[raiden031]

I was hoping that Nuke was being sarcastic with his Peter Principle remark. I am definitely not topped out. I need lessons that's for sure because I've been getting over on speed and a forehand. I just couldn't understand what could possibly be such a major difference between 2.5 and 3.0- that I would be losing. Badly. My matches were closer when I played the same level of Peach last year even though I lost every single one. (which is why I'm back at the same level) But no, I don't want to stay on a beginner level, I want to improve as much as I possibly can. I probably have some pretty lofty goals but I want to be great.

I can find reasons you might lose badly going from 2.5 to 3.0

There are 3.0 players who can hit with enough topspin that the balls bounce to your shoulders. If you haven't dealt with this before, you'll be shanking balls the whole match. There are some who hit nothing but slice bouncing at your knees (this happened to me playing against a 70 year old last year and he destroyed me because I couldn't hit my shots from that low without tons of errors). 3.0 players have the ability to direct the ball better and can get you out of position. 3.0 players can rally longer than you without making an error (major reason). 3.0 players can identify and attack a weakness. These may or may not relate to you, but they are all reasons a 2.5 might get beat by a 3.0 very badly. Once you gain more experience you will be able to handle the various spins or stategies that your opponent tries to use against you.

 

[SB]

I don't think there are too many 2.5 players who've been playing very long. But there are many MANY 3.0s who have played for years. So there will definitely be an experience gap, which counts for a lot.

 

[csb]

argh

Keep playing and try not to get down on yourself. Tennis is quite possibly the most frustrating sport you can play. And since ratings are not always accurate just do you best. There are times when i win a match but get frustrated with myself because i didn't win easier. Then sometimes i lose but feel pretty good because i just realize that the other guy is just better than me or was having a good day.

 

[Wilson6-1]

Is that Peach tennis? The difference between 2.5 and 3.0- is somewhat larger than others I think. I think you put your finger on it. 3.0- people in Atlanta have ball control and can begin to exploit things, like backhands. Since there are more people in Kswiss the differences are probably somewhat smaller than they would be in Peach. If you killed everyone at 2.5 in Kswiss you'll probably do ok in 3.0- Kswiss

I agree. People are serious about tennis in Atlanta. Between ALTA, USTA, T2, KSwiss and Peach, they play year-round and the quality of play is solid. Despite what some would think, good 3.0 players can usually make all of the shots, and while they lack consistency, and may have a weak or slice backhand, they are good enough to play around it. A lot of these players sandbag at 3.0 and 3.0-.

Keep in mind that Peach is a much smaller league and not as well known. You have to drive farther distances and usually the players who play Peach are more serious at every level.

I wouldn't get down, sometimes it is just the luck of the draw that season. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for players that have previously played 3.0 or even 3.5 to come back after a few years away from tennis to start back up at 3.0-.

Lastly, don't worry so much about your backhand (or lack thereof), focus on trying to control the points during your service games to hold serve. At that level, it is all about keeping the ball in play until your opponent commits the error.

 

[harleywilson]

I agree. People are serious about tennis in Atlanta. Between ALTA, USTA, T2, KSwiss and Peach, they play year-round and the quality of play is solid. Despite what some would think, good 3.0 players can usually make all of the shots, and while they lack consistency, and may have a weak or slice backhand, they are good enough to play around it. A lot of these players sandbag at 3.0 and 3.0-.

Keep in mind that Peach is a much smaller league and not as well known. You have to drive farther distances and usually the players who play Peach are more serious at every level.

I wouldn't get down, sometimes it is just the luck of the draw that season. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for players that have previously played 3.0 or even 3.5 to come back after a few years away from tennis to start back up at 3.0-.

Lastly, don't worry so much about your backhand (or lack thereof), focus on trying to control the points during your service games to hold serve. At that level, it is all about keeping the ball in play until your opponent commits the error.

No kidding. I play 3.5- Kswiss and have a brother in law who plays 4.0 USTA in a different part of the country and I can slaughter him every time. According to the NTRP I think I fit about at 4.5 or 5 but if I tried that here I would be toast. If you have a chance you should see the finals of the Kswiss 6.0 men's and women's in Atlanta. Incredible tennis. I'm not trying to brag or anything but the competition here is heavy. I've played against 2.5's who have pace on their shots and hit kickers on their 2nd serves

 

[QuietDaze]

Thanks for the encouragment ya'll. I'm not giving up, but I just couldn't understand it. All of your explanations make sense. I just have to keep plugging away, take some lessons and get back to kicking booty.

 

[harleywilson]

Thanks for the encouragment ya'll. I'm not giving up, but I just couldn't understand it. All of your explanations make sense. I just have to keep plugging away, take some lessons and get back to kicking booty.

You could get the names of those who you played and find out where they play in either Kswiss, T2 or ALTA. You might find something interesting. If I recall doesn't Peach tennis use levels 1-10, not the regular rating systems?

 

[tennis-n-sc]

I don't think there are too many 2.5 players who've been playing very long. But there are many MANY 3.0s who have played for years. So there will definitely be an experience gap, which counts for a lot.

Great point.

QuietDaze, remember you are moving up from 2.5 to 3.0. As SB says, many plays at 3.0 have been there awhile and many are getting ready to move up to 3.5. Keep it all in perspective. You'll play other 2.5 level players at the 3.0 level and some 3.5 level players. Most will be experienced 3.0 players and there is a big difference between these and a 2.5 player. Take it in stride and learn from those that are giving the lessons now. The cream will rise to the top and soon you'll be the one giving lessons to the other upstart 3.0's. The object of the game is to have fun. If you want to be in a depression all the time, take up golf.

 

[Wilson6-1]

No kidding. I play 3.5- Kswiss and have a brother in law who plays 4.0 USTA in a different part of the country and I can slaughter him every time. According to the NTRP I think I fit about at 4.5 or 5 but if I tried that here I would be toast. If you have a chance you should see the finals of the Kswiss 6.0 men's and women's in Atlanta. Incredible tennis. I'm not trying to brag or anything but the competition here is heavy. I've played against 2.5's who have pace on their shots and hit kickers on their 2nd serves

I had the same thing happen with me, in Massachusetts, my brother played at the local club level and was a 3.5. He and his partner won 3.0, and them moved up to 3.5, and won that tournement as well. Now, club play can be different even in the same state, but I routinely beat him without much effort and had never taken a lessen or played in any organized tennis. When I came to Atlanta several years ago and started to play ALTA, and with friends that play K-swiss, T2, etc., it wasn't even close. The lower levels of ALTA are probably equivalent to T2 ranking of around 2.5 or 3.0-, and we couldn't win a match, in fact, struggled to win a set the first season.

That is why I think rating tennis levels is difficult, and IMO, the NTRP ratings are not much help.

 

[raiden031]

I had the same thing happen with me, in Massachusetts, my brother played at the local club level and was a 3.5. He and his partner won 3.0, and them moved up to 3.5, and won that tournement as well. Now, club play can be different even in the same state, but I routinely beat him without much effort and had never taken a lessen or played in any organized tennis. When I came to Atlanta several years ago and started to play ALTA, and with friends that play K-swiss, T2, etc., it wasn't even close. The lower levels of ALTA are probably equivalent to T2 ranking of around 2.5 or 3.0-, and we couldn't win a match, in fact, struggled to win a set the first season.

That is why I think rating tennis levels is difficult, and IMO, the NTRP ratings are not much help.

I once attended a free lesson at a club, which was not really a free lesson but it started out with a pro feeding me balls and giving little pointers, but the main purpose was to talk to me about their programs in hopes that I will sign up. Anyways, based on my strokes when he was feeding me balls, he suggested I join their club 4.5 sessions. He stated that maps to about a USTA 4.0. But in reality, I was actually a USTA 3.0. This was mainly due to his ball feeds being consistently in my strike zone, so I was pounding them perfectly.

Rating numbers are ok within USTA since they are all adjusted to be on the same scale nationally. However rating numbers are meaningless when used throughout clubs independently of USTA. I think every club should make an effort to keep their club members NTRP ratings in synch with USTA. It would make for better matchups within and across clubs.

 

[Cindysphinx]

Thanks for the encouragment ya'll. I'm not giving up, but I just couldn't understand it. All of your explanations make sense. I just have to keep plugging away, take some lessons and get back to kicking booty.

Oh, QuietDaze. I *so* totally know what you're talking about. That jump from 2.5 to 3.0 is a beast. I mean, I considered myself to be All That when I moved up from 2.5, and it was so humbling and frustrating and annoying to suddenly be unable to beat anyone in the Eastern Time Zone.

At 2.5, the players can't possibly make you pay for your mistakes. If you're having an off day, you can just push the ball and wait for them to choke. Or just win through superior fitness. Heck, you can stand there waiting to receive serve at love-40 and be pretty confident a double fault is a'coming your way.

At 3.0, you start to see people who can hit consistently, so you wind up making the first mistake. You see people with directional control. Or big serves. Oh, sure. They have big weaknesses, but by the time you find them the match can be over. Then you run into people who are on the cusp of 3.5, and they can make you look bad in a hurry.

There is only one solution: Get better. Get *a lot* better. Pour your money and energy into getting better. Do at least an hour a week just on your serve. Hit against the wall. Take lessons and practice everything diligently. If your instructor wants to re-build a stroke, have faith that this will pay off. Look on the bright side: At least you are already fast and fit. Imagine how distressing it must be for other players who must work on fitness *and* strokes at the same time.

When I was where you are, I decided I didn't want to spend my whole tennis career as a middle-aged 3.0 bottom feeder, so I started completely re-working *every* stroke beginning in May 2006. My strokes in my second year at 3.0 look *nothing* like they did in my first year at 3.0.

And still, there are plenty of 3.0s who can take me out back and spank me good. But at least I win my fair share of matches, and I don't feel terribly embarrassed when I don't win.

It's not an overnight thing, though. You'll probably need to re-set your expectations and have faith that the work and lessons and money will yield benefits in about one year.

It's worth it, though. It's like coming onto the court with way more tools in your tool bag, which makes the match more interesting.

 

[New Kid On the Block]

LEssons,, take some lesson,, you will get there.