The time has finally arrived—the greatest show on earth has started, the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The atmosphere of excitement, anticipation, and unity is visible across the globe as fans gather to witness the pinnacle of sporting achievement. And this time, I had the pleasure of experiencing it up close, in a way that truly brought the magic of the Olympics home.

During my time at Table Tennis England, this marks the second Olympic Games I’ve been involved in, but the first one we’ve been able to showcase fully after the challenges of the pandemic in 2020. And let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint.

Team GB Fanzone: Bringing the Games Closer to UK Fans

One of the standout experiences for me this year was being part of the official Team GB Fanzone in Kings Cross, London. The fanzone was a brilliant concept, designed to bring the spirit of the Olympics closer to fans in the UK who couldn’t make it to Paris. It wasn’t just a viewing area—it was a full-blown celebration.

The fanzone provided live DJ sets, Olympic-themed activities, and an incredible programme of onstage entertainment. We had Q&A sessions with athletes, live medal celebrations, and even opportunities for fans to try their hand at various sports, including table tennis. It gave people a taste of the Olympic magic without needing a eurostar ticket to Paris.

A Festival Atmosphere to Remember

I had the privilege of attending both the opening and closing ceremonies at the fanzone, and it was a memorable experience from start to finish. The venue was perfect—a spacious area decked out with a giant screen, a stage, food and merchandise stalls, deckchairs, and, of course, a range of activities. It truly felt like a festival, with the entire site wrapped in Team GB branding, giving everything a sharp, professional, and patriotic feel.

The energy was infectious, and you could sense that everyone there was united in their support for Team GB and the Olympic spirit. The pride in our athletes and the excitement of the Games were evident in every cheer, every conversation, and every smile.

Table Tennis: A Smash Hit at the Fanzone

One of the highlights for me was seeing how popular table tennis was at the fanzone. Throughout the games, hundreds—if not thousands—of people queued up to have a go at the tables. It was incredible to witness people of all ages and skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned players, eager to pick up a bat and test their skills.

A huge thank you must go out to our fantastic volunteers, who worked tirelessly to make sure everyone had an unforgettable experience. Their enthusiasm and dedication were key to creating such a welcoming atmosphere for all the fans. Thank you, team!

And of course, a big shoutout to my colleague, Chris Cockburn, who played an instrumental role in organising the table tennis activities. Chris was present every day, ensuring everything ran smoothly and that fans had a blast. He also proved to be a natural in front of the camera—if you haven’t seen his vlogs yet, I highly recommend checking them out!

Inspiring the Next Generation of Players

One of the most rewarding parts of my time at the fanzone was speaking to so many people about table tennis and helping direct them to their nearest clubs in the capital. It was heartening to see how much interest the sport generated and to know that we may have sparked a passion for table tennis in many of those who attended. Who knows? We might see some future Olympians among them.

The Buzz of the Olympics: A London 2012 Déjà Vu

Being part of this fanzone took me back to the unforgettable London 2012 Olympics. There was a similar buzz in the air whenever a sport was shown on the big screen. Fans roared with excitement, cheering on athletes from all nations, and the volume hit its peak when Team GB took to the stage. That sense of pride and support for our athletes, coupled with the community spirit, made the fanzone experience truly special.

The 2024 Paris Olympics have already provided so many unforgettable moments, and being part of the Team GB Fanzone has been the perfect way to celebrate them. It’s been an honour to be part of this incredible event, and I look forward to seeing how the rest of the Games unfold!

Let’s continue to support Team GB and keep the Olympic spirit alive.