Learning the basic rules, keeping score, and focused entirely on consistent ball contact. Rallies tend to be short, and you are starting to get comfortable controlling the paddle.

Hits serves and returns deep. Learns to transition to the non-volley zone. Understand fundamental rules, and can sustain short rallies. Your forehand has basic consistency, but backhands, dinks, and third-shot drops remain inconsistent. 

Keeps sustained rallies going. Understands the "soft game" but frequently pops up dinks. Has a reliable serve and return. Understand the non-volley zone strategy. Can hold a dink rally, though may still lack control when attempting to place the ball tactically.

Actively executes 3rd-shot drops and kitchen resets. Can change the pace of a rally intentionally. Can hold a dink rally, and place the ball tactically. Transitions to the non-volley zone with partner.

Controls the net with fast hand-speed, targets opponent weaknesses, and rarely commits unforced errors, but they still make occasional unforced errors when rushed.  Demonstrate excellent court positioning, consistent drops, and pace control. Can poach at the net, and actively look to exploit opponents weaknesses. 

Rarely beat themselves with unforced errors. Place shots with extreme intent, weaponizing dinks to target an opponent's weak foot or specific shoulder. Have a reliable third-shot drop that consistently lands in the kitchen, allowing them to safely transition to the net. They also seamlessly mix in third-shot drives to keep opponents guessing. Possess high tactical patience. Will dink indefinitely until they receive a ball high enough to attack safely, and their counter-attacks are fast and decisive. Excel at the "reset." Can take a hard, smashed ball and softly drop it into the kitchen from anywhere on the court to neutralize the rally.

Tournament-level competitors with powerful serves, exceptional court discipline. Masters of the game.