The Isle of Wight Winter League has commenced with 23 teams, comprising 94 players, spread over three divisions.

This has been a significant year for the Island table tennis, with a double celebration. It has been their centenary year and the Island were bronze medallists in the recent International Island Games event in Guernsey.

A big success and welcome development on the Isle of Wight recently, has been their coaching of new and young players. Nine juniors and cadets will be participating this coming season in the Winter League.

The youngsters are usually paired with experienced players to assist and guide them. The team pictured above – RYDE C – will be challenging for a top-three finish, at least. Experienced players, Graham Evans and Paul Rainford are seen here with junior player, Ryan Cates.

Ryan has come through the Island coaching system and participated a few months ago in the finals of the English Leagues Cup Competitions – he is a young player with great potential.