On 1st August 2025, a new chapter begins for table tennis clubs, players, and volunteers across Ireland. As Table Tennis Ireland (TTI) opens its 2025/26 membership year, clubs and communities are set to benefit from more support, more opportunities, and more ways to grow the sport we all love.
From New Beginnings to Rapid Growth – The Waterford Story
Take Waterford TT Stars Club. Founded in April 2024, they’re already one of the fastest-growing clubs in the country. In a recent conversation with their committee, they described how vital the support from TTI staff has been in their journey so far.
“The phone calls and emails we received from TTI made a huge difference. We never felt alone in the process — whenever we had a question, there was someone at the other end ready to help us.”
They also highlighted the new Club Development Handbook as a key tool for building their standards:
“The handbook is going to be really useful for both new and established clubs. It gives clear guidance on safeguarding, governance, and running a club well. We can see it being a cornerstone for our growth.”
Stories like Waterford’s show that with the right support, even the newest clubs can thrive.
A Smooth Process – The Ards TT Experience
For Ards Table Tennis Club, the focus was on how straightforward the affiliation process has become:
“We found the system really easy to use — uploading documents and making payments was simple and clear. The Just Go platform made the whole process smooth.”
Hearing feedback like this shows that the investment in digital tools is paying off, making life easier for volunteers and committees across Ireland.
What’s New for 2025/26
This season, TTI is introducing three major updates designed to make table tennis even more accessible:
Recreational Membership
Perfect for community groups and social players. Whether it’s a group of friends playing once a week or a local youth club giving table tennis a try, the new recreational membership makes it easier (and cheaper) to join in.
- Juniors: €2.50
- Adults: €5.75
Discounted Young Coach Membership (Ages 16–19)
We’re backing the next generation of coaches. If you’re a young volunteer stepping into a leadership role, your membership fee is now just €12.50 — making it easier to start your coaching journey.
However, if a player with a Junior (16 to 19), a Veteran or a Senior Membership wants to become a volunteer coach they can do so now for no additional cost. (i.e. there will be no requirement to purchase an additional coach’s membership. Also, if they enrol on a Level 1 or 2 course they will be issued a coaching membership once the course has been completed satisfactorily. (this does not apply to a Recreational or League Membership).
Any new coaches (outside of the point above) who enrol on a Level 1 course for the first time, the initial course fees will include a basic coach’s membership which will be awarded once the course is completed satisfactorily. Subsequent years will require a coach’s membership unless they hold a players membership outlined above.
Why It Matters to You
For players, it means stepping onto the court knowing you’re covered if anything happens — from personal accident cover to peace of mind for parents.
For clubs, it means no hidden insurance costs, access to grants and training, and support in writing constitutions, safeguarding policies, and even applying for funding.
For coaches and volunteers, it means you’re protected while doing what you love — giving back to the sport and helping new players grow.
The Benefits in Action
Here’s what your club gains by affiliating with TTI:
- Full Insurance Cover (Public Liability, Employers’ Liability, Personal Accident)
- Free Access to the TT League App – save hours of admin time each week
- Tailored Club Development Support – from safeguarding to grant applications
- Free Vetting for coaches and volunteers
- Priority Access to Training in coaching, safeguarding, and disability inclusion
- Increased Visibility – your club featured on the TTI website directory
The Road Ahead
The clock is ticking. From 1st August, the Just Go system opens for renewals. Clubs have until 31st October to upload safeguarding policies and constitutions, with the final affiliation deadline on 30th November.
By joining, you’re not just paying a fee — you’re investing in your club’s growth, your members’ safety, and the future of table tennis in Ireland.
Follow a link to the membership policies here: https://tabletennisireland.ie/policies-club-membership/
Ready to Take the First Step?
Don’t miss out on the opportunities this season brings.
- 01 625 1135
- Let’s make 2025/26 a season where every club and every player feels supported, safe, and part of something bigger.
