I joined the USTA about a month ago and just got my ID card with my number on it yesterday.
I looked online for some tournaments and I found one in April for Adult Men's Singles (I am 20) that has 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5 tournaments.
I went to register and it says my name and then NTRP 0.0
Can I still register for the tournament or do I have to get rated by someone first?
And I am not really 100% sure about my rating so which level should I enter?
Your NTRP is 0.0 because you have not rated yourself or played in any USTA tournaments or leagues.
IMHO - Most people use the USTA self-rating guidelines to estimate their NTRP (
http://www.usta.com/USTA/Global/Act...16673_When_and_how_do_I_get_a_SELFRATING.aspx).
Some tennis pros do offer short clinics to provide you with a starting NTRP - but IIRC, I don't think USTA officials do any sort of ratings clinics (at least not in my area).
One thing to keep in mind is that if you rate yourself too high, you can't play below that level, but you can always play up a level if you rate too low. For example, if you rate 4.5 (which is a fairly advanced level as far as recreational tennis goes), you can't drop to play 3.5 events. Dropping would require appealing your self rating (
http://www.usta.com/USTA/Global/Active/Custom Pages/Leagues/23179_Appeal_a_Rating.aspx ).
To get you started. here are the guidelines:
http://dps.usta.com/usta_master/sitecore_usta/USTA/Document Assets/2006/04/03/doc_13_12277.pdf
3.0 This player is fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks execution when trying for directional control, depth, or power. Most common doubles formation is one up, one back.
3.5 This player has achieved improved stroke dependability with directional
control on moderate shots, but still lacks depth and variety. This player
exhibits more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage, and is
developing teamwork in doubles.
4.0 This player has dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys with some success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving. Rallies may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.
4.5 This player has begun to master the use of power and spins and is beginning to handle pace, has sound footwork, can control depth of shots, and is beginning to vary game plan according to opponents. This player can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the second serve. This player tends to overhit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in doubles.
BTW- what's your tennis background? You play high school? college? Juniors? Recently pick up the game?
