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26 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | JANUARY 2019 | Tennis Friends Although Tennis Friends enjoy the social aspect of the game, for players who want to play more competitively, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) offers organized, competitive play at all levels. The new year is the perfect time for competitive players to fine tune their games by joining the USTA and participating in leagues and tournaments. With more than 700,000 members nationwide, ranging from beginners to professionals, the USTA offers players the perfect vehicle to play competitive, recreational tennis. Leagues range from 2.5 for the advanced beginner to 5.0/5.5, which usually consists of top level college players. Professionals, such as Roger Federer are ranked 7.0, the highest level. Players initially self-rate themselves by answering a series of questions pertaining to their tennis background. Once they are given a self-rating, they can compete in local leagues and tournaments at their level. Many new USTA players often over or under rate themselves, but once they play three league matches within a calendar year, they will earn a computer rating, similar to a golf handicap. This is a more accurate rating because it takes into account a player's record against other players at their level throughout the country. Playing USTA is a great way to improve your tennis game, meet new players and make new friends, while enjoying the competition and camaraderie of team tennis. It offers recreational players a chance to compete at district, sectional and national levels. Players interested in playing USTA, can go to the website at www.USTA.com. Winter schedule: Men's and Women's begin at 9 am, Monday and Friday; Men's and Advanced Women's begin at 8:30 am, Tuesday and Thursday; Mixed-up Doubles begin at 8 am, Saturday. Come join the fun! We play on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays from 7:30 am to noon. We invite anyone that would like to learn how to play Pickleball to come on down the fourth Saturday of the month at 8 am for lessons. We know you will have as much fun as we do. Players of all skill levels welcome! Pickleball Top picture - More than 24 Tennis Friends gathered in December for a barbecue in celebration of Ricky Cheung's (photo directly above, right) birthday. Tennis Friend's Judy Bailey (center) also celebrated a December birthday.