Well you seemed to have done as many, started off on classic. Unlike me though you played both escalating and flat rate, which is very good. I played only flat rate in the start and that put me at a disadvantage when I sought to widen my horizons

As you seem have have located some experienced team players to play with and have games on varied maps up atm there isn't so much to say. This what you should be doing, trying out different maps and settings, and if your looking for a future in the clan realm, focusing on training your team game skills with steady partners of experience.
I'd suggest totally stepping out of your comfort zone, classic, and just playing other maps. Even if this has you drop to Sergeant, or even corporal. When your starting out, seeking a bit of recognition and wanting to get your name out there, it can seem embarrassing to be low ranked, but truth be told most colonels will much rather play will a skilled sergeant than a fellow colonel of same skill. It's a matter of profit margin.
Personally I'd suggest starting as many of your games as you can, letting anyone join, no complaints that way. Continually farming newer players, or ambushing much higher ranked teams for points margin won't get you smiles and handshakes

That's a highly subjective opinion though, and I know many wring their points from the system by any means available. everyone has to make their own call on this issue I suppose

So from one nub to another, good luck, have fun, and see you at the top one day
/AramA