Grading System - How does it work?
The UKPA has a grading system which if different from the International grading system.
The Grading System covers the range from 0 to 20
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
12 |
13 |
14 |
15 |
16 |
17 |
18 |
19 |
20 |
D Division |
C Division |
B Division |
A Division |
Not yet Allocated |
Reason for the difference
The reason for this system is to allow for the improvement of players that the international system does not allow for and to allow better players entering the country to have an adequate grade. For example the best UK player is now on a 16, so when the best players in the World come over they can be graded up to 20. When the international system was used the best UK player was on a 9, but the highest grade we could give was a 10.
Another reason for the increased number of grades available is the give a wider range of grades to better reflect people of different standards. For example with the international system there may be 3 players of different abilities on a 7, but now with the new system they may be on a 9, a 10 and an 11.
Re-grading
Regarding any re-grading that is required, the 4 Regional Umpires and Chief Umpire have to grade a large number of players. Obviously they do not get chance to watch and assess every player, so if anyone thinks a player (not necessarily in the same club, but may be team-mate, opposition or just an observation) needs re-grading please do so through the Club Chairman. The Club Chairman should contact their Regional Umpire with a suggested grade; this will then be discussed at the next umpire meeting to see if the suggestion is suitable.
GRADES / HANDICAP
There are 2 re-grading meetings during each season. Normally the first is at a tournament in June and the second is usually at a tournament at the end of July.
Each club should send 1 representative to each regrading meeting to put forward any suggested grade changes for their club members.
The Grading Committee have made a number of changes so please check everyone's grade.
If anyone has any other questions, please contact their Regional Umpire.
The Regional Umpires for 2007 are:
For umpire/refresher courses and general information please contact your Regional Umpire or the Chief Umpire
Hamish Michael (2008 UKPA Chief Umpire) |
