Here's my player card thing.
Here's a more in depth (workshop shown) analysis of my 2v2 set up.
viewtopic.php?f=406&t=35368&start=50 Whether or not you consider this being a "top player" is up to you, but I have had my share of weeks in the top 3 clans.
1. 2v2s and 3v3s are proven to ensure a higher win/loss ratio, so most of the time you'll find a top player there. Keep in mind most top players have a lot of free time on their hands, so they can sacrifice the extra time to ensure that they have the highest possible ratio for their clan. I personally stick to 1v1s and 2v2s, but thats only because I haven't been in HardToKill in months (nor with the nickname change), so my mechs are kinda outdated.
2. We grind, just like everyone else.

Unless you make a last minute decision to go for an indiv medal, most of the time you wont buy a boost. If you planned accordingly, but run out of SM and have competetion that week, you might want to buy a gold boost. Keep in mind most (by most