Guide
Using Playtomic levels to balance a padel league
In short
Playtomic rates players from 0 to 7, starting from a questionnaire and then moving with competitive match results. A club can use it to put members of a similar standard together: seed divisions so the highest levels start in Division 1, or set a level range on each league so members know which one suits them. Treat it as a starting point, and let promotion and relegation correct it.
What the scale means
Playtomic levels run from 0 to 7. A new player sets a starting level by answering a questionnaire; after that it moves with the results of competitive matches, based on how the result compared with what the two sides’ levels predicted.
| Level | Playtomic’s name for it |
|---|---|
| Under 1.0 | Initiation |
| 1.0 to 1.49 | Beginner |
| 1.5 to 2.4 | Initiation intermediate |
| 2.5 to 3.4 | Intermediate |
| 3.5 to 4.4 | Intermediate high |
| 4.5 to 5.4 | Intermediate advanced |
| About 5.5 to 7 | Advanced to professional |
Playtomic also shows a reliability figure: how confident the system is in a level. It rises with matches played. A low reliability level can swing a lot after a few results.
Where levels go wrong
- The questionnaire. Starting levels are self reported, and some players rate themselves high.
- Small circles. Someone who only ever plays the same group can build a reliable looking level that does not travel.
- Friendlies do not count. Only competitive matches move the level, so a regular social player may be rated on very few games.
Using levels in a league
- Ask for a level at sign up, and make it optional. Some players do not have one.
- Seed the first round. In divisions, put the highest levels in Division 1 and fill downwards. Players without a level start in the bottom division.
- Let results take over. After the first round, promotion and relegation are a better guide than any rating. See box league or ladder.
- Advertise a level range on each league, such as 1.0 to 2.5 for an improvers league, so players choose the right one.
- Keep levels private. A level is personal; show the league’s range, not each player’s number.
How Padeliga does it
A Padeliga league can ask for a Playtomic level when people join, from 0.0 to 7.0, and nobody has to answer. Divisions and Champion of champions can be seeded by it: the strongest fill Division 1 first, and anyone who leaves it blank starts in the bottom one. After the first round, promotion and relegation take over. Clubs show a level range and a Casual or Competitive tag on each league on the club board, so members pick the right one, and staff can name two people the draw should keep apart. Players never see each other’s level.
Questions
What is a good Playtomic level?
Around 2.5 to 3.4 is a typical intermediate club player. Above 4.5 is advanced.
How is a Playtomic level worked out?
A questionnaire sets the starting level, then competitive match results move it up or down.
Should a club league be seeded by level?
For the first round of divisions, yes if most members have a level. After that, promotion and relegation are more reliable.
Do members need a Playtomic level to join a club league?
No. Make the question optional. Members without a level start in the bottom division, or in a league labelled for beginners, and their results move them.
Run your club’s leagues in Padeliga
Members join from a code or the QR poster, agree times in the app and confirm each other’s scores, and the table updates itself. Staff see every league on one screen. Clubs get a free 90-day trial, members never pay, and leagues of 16 or fewer are free.