Padel WhatsApp Communities
Many people who play Padel do so because of how social the sport is and the fun they can have with their friends. However, we know it can sometimes be tricky to find three other people to play with, who are available at the same time.
We’re looking into ways we can make this easy for our members, engaging with 3rd parties and software development companies. In the meantime, we’re pleased to launch our Padel WhatsApp Communities. These WhatsApp communities will be grouped in line with LTA guidelines, meaning you’ll be matched with players of a similar ability. You can find out more information below.
Find your level, play against others. If you are still unsure which group to join after reading this information, please speak to one of the coaches for further guidance.
All people joining the Padel Whatsapp Communities must adhere to the Padel Whatsapp Code of Conduct.
University of Cambridge Padel Self-Rating System
Level 0 - 1: New to Padel
- Brand new to the game or has very limited experience with padel.
- Learning basic strokes (forehand, backhand, volleys) and focusing on improving ball control.
- New to understanding tactics, positioning, or rules.
- Rallies are typically short.
Level 1 - 2: Padel Improvers
Skill Characteristics:
- Has basic stroke fundamentals (forehand, backhand, volley, and serve) but is focusing on consistency.
- Can keep rallies going, but still makes frequent unforced errors.
- Beginning to understand strategies and tactics but has difficulty implementing them.
- Mixed success with returning simple serves, volleying and using the walls.
Level 2 - 3: Low Intermediate
Skill Characteristics:
- Consistent and competitive with basic strokes, serves, and volleys.
- Can return moderate-paced shots with some regularity and occasionally uses the walls effectively.
- Developing a tactical understanding of positioning, strategy, and how to control points.
- Can engage in longer rallies but in match-play scenarios struggles to build consistent pressure on opponents.
Level 3-4: High-Intermediate
Skill Characteristics:
- Consistently hits well-placed groundstrokes, volleys, and serves in high-pressure situations and is capable of lobbing and smashing with intent.
- Regularly uses the walls effectively for both defensive and offensive shots.
- Solid understanding of tactics (offensive and defensive play, positioning, and anticipation).
- Comfortable engaging in longer rallies and capable of controlling points through varied shot selection.
- Can beat the coach.
Level 4-5: Advanced Padel
Skill Characteristics:
- Near-perfect technical execution of all strokes (groundstrokes, volleys, smashes, serves).
- Strong tactical knowledge, consistently using strategy to outplay opponents.
- Excellent control over power, speed, and spin, and skilled at reading the game.
- Makes minimal unforced errors and uses walls effectively in both offensive and defensive situations.