2024 has been a standout year for table tennis in the North East, with clubs and individuals making remarkable contributions to the sport. From nurturing young talent to hosting high-profile competitions, the region’s achievements have highlighted its vibrant table tennis community. Here’s a look at some of the year’s highlights:

NETT TTC: Building Youth Excellence Under Graeme Barella

Graeme Barella, North East Area Chair and head coach at Newcastle University, has spearheaded several initiatives through NETT TTC:

  • Expanding Competitive Opportunities:
    • NETT entered a team in the Youth British Clubs League, marking a milestone for young players in the region.
    • Newcastle University hosted its first 1* competition, and NETT added two more 1* events, creating essential entry-level opportunities for players.
  • Promising Youth Teams: The club is sending two Under-16 boys’ teams and one Under-19 boys’ team to the schools area finals in Bradford, reflecting their strong youth programme.

Clare Flynn: Championing Women and Girls in Table Tennis

Clare Flynn, the Women and Girls Ambassador for the North East, has been instrumental in expanding opportunities for women and girls in table tennis. Some of her significant achievements include:

  • Launching the North East Women and Girls 1*: Held in March, this event set a benchmark for inclusive competition in the region.
  • Organising Women and Girls Only Days: Clare delivered three successful days at various clubs, culminating in an event at Swerve with 32 participants.
  • Empowering Women Through Coaching:
    • At Brandon Table Tennis Club, Clare’s women and girls session inspired a new women’s team, now competing in the Sunderland league.
    • She established a dedicated women’s coaching night in Durham.
    • Alongside Bernie Morris and Rita Dixon, Clare has also co-led Saturday morning open coaching sessions, consistently attracting 16 participants weekly.

Kelham Island Table Tennis Club: A Hub of Community Engagement

Kelham Island TTC has had an eventful year, fostering community spirit and player development:

  • Bringing Table Tennis to All: Founders Simon and Liam have engaged participants ranging from six to 81 years old through various community sessions.
  • Launching Junior Programmes: The success of their TT Kidz programme led to the creation of a dedicated junior session.
  • Local League Debut: For the first time, Kelham Island entered their local league, providing players with valuable competitive experience.
  • Elite Connections: Hosting members of the GB squad, now based in Sheffield, has been a highlight for the club.

Baildon Table Tennis Club: Nurturing Young Talent

Baildon TTC has seen significant progress in 2024:

  • Youth Development: Regular coaching sessions attract 12-15 children weekly, fostering a new generation of players.
  • League Success: Baildon teams are leading divisions three and four of their local league, driven by outstanding junior performances from Anees Khan, Mark Greenwood, and Matthew Clarke.

Halifax Table Tennis Club: A Yorkshire Triumph

Halifax TTC celebrated a major achievement with the Yorkshire Junior team’s victory in Division 1A. Their win earned a promotion to the prestigious premier division, a testament to the club’s commitment to excellence.

Sheffield Hallam University: BUCS Nationals Brilliance

Sheffield Hallam University’s table tennis players shone brightly at the BUCS Nationals:

  • Doubles Dominance:
    • Ben Piggott and Felix Thomis captured gold in the men’s doubles.
    • Shae Takker and Joe Sawyer won bronze, making Shae the first para player to medal at a BUCS Nationals event.
  • Singles Success: Ben secured silver, while Felix took bronze in the men’s singles.

Swerve Table Tennis Club: A Year of Vibrancy

Swerve TTC has been a pillar of activity in 2024:

  • Women and Girls Focus: Partnering with Clare Flynn and Table Tennis England, Swerve hosted a popular women and girls event.
  • Veteran Circuit Participation: The club made a strong impression on the VETTs competition circuit, excelling at British Clubs Leagues and the World VETTs.
    High-Level Training: Swerve hosted a Cooke and Deaton training camp, enhancing the skillsets of players across the region.

Looking Ahead

The achievements of 2024 are a testament to the dedication and passion within the North East table tennis community. As we move forward, the foundations laid by these clubs and individuals promise an even brighter future for clubs, leagues and counties. Here’s to more success in 2025!

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