Lower Intermediate League — Team Self-Evaluation Checklist
Every player on your team should confidently say “YES” to each item below.
✅ Serving Skills
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☐ Can every player serve over the net more than twice in a row?
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☐ Can every player serve without stepping on or over the serving line?
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☐ Can players consistently place serves in-bounds (not wild or out of control)?
✅ Ball Control Basics
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☐ Does each player understand how to avoid lifts, carries, and double contacts?
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☐ Can your team keep a rally going for at least 3–5 controlled touches in practice?
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☐ Do players know how to pass the ball without swinging or “swatting” at it?
✅ Movement & Court Awareness
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☐ Can players stay out from under the net on all plays?
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☐ Do players safely avoid crossing the center line in a way that interferes with opponents?
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☐ Can teammates communicate effectively (“mine,” “out,” “help,” etc.)?
✅ Basic Rules Knowledge
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☐ Does every player know rotation order and how to hold their court position until serve contact?
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☐ Do all players understand three touches per side and what counts as each touch?
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☐ Does your team know which contacts are legal (including blocks and first-ball doubles)?
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☐ Are players familiar with the rules for:
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Net violations
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Back-row attacks
✅ Gameplay Experience
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☐ Has your team played in organized rec or school leagues before (not first-timers)?
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☐ Can players handle moderately fast serves and attacks without panic or freezing?
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☐ Do players know how to transition between offense/defense (serve receive, base, coverage)?
✅ Safety & Sportsmanship
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☐ Does your team maintain control of their bodies and avoid unsafe diving or crashing under the net?
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☐ Can your team handle competitive play without frustration, arguing, or sideline coaching meltdowns?
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☐ Is your team ready to play opponents who can hit, block, and serve with moderate power?
⭐ Final Filter Question
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☐ If you played against a strong beginner team, would you clearly outplay them without overwhelming them?
If the answer is yes, Lower Intermediate is likely the right fit.
If the answer is no or maybe, your team probably belongs in Beginner/Rec until ready.