Table-Tennis-Ireland

Hopes Trials 2023 Nominations

by with No Comment TTI News

Please see below the details for the resumption of a new initiative run by TTI for the nurturing of young talent in our clubs. TTI is currently catering for the reemergence of a newly structured Hopes Programme, starting with the annual Hopes Trials to be held on the 11th November. The idea is for Clubs to nominate put forward 2 boys and 2 Girls born on or after 1st January 2013 or later to take part in these Hopes Trials in a bid to be selected for the Hopes Squad. The squad will then have a monthly training session with their assigned National Coach. After Christmas the squad will be reassessed and dependent on results/attendance at TTI ranking tournaments, results/attendance at squad trainings and development of traits mentioned below players will retain their place in the squad for the second half of the season or new players will be introduced should certain players not being meet the required levels of performance an commitment. 

Selections will be made based on more than just individual performance in the tournament at the Hopes Trials. Overall levels of Technique, Fitness, Coordination, Balance, Training Ability, Match Play Ability, Attitude, Focus, overall potential and more will be taken into consideration on the day and for the selection of the Hopes Squad. 

Club Coaches will be welcome to stay for the duration of the day and get involved in the trials camp by means of sparring, multi ball training or just their own observation of the camp and tournament. No coaching will be allowed in the matches during the tournament. 

Please put forward the nominate players from your club by emailing [email protected] and all requests for additional spots should be sent with initial nominations. 

We look forward to seeing you on the day and working with your players. 

TTI Hopes Squad Trials 

  • Date – Saturday 11th November 2023
  • Venue – IWA, Blackheath Drive, Clontarf
  • Time – 10am-4pm (Lunch break from 12:30-2). Please Players are required to arrive for check in at 9:30am. 
  • Price – €30 Per Child 
  • Schedule – 10am-12:30pm Training Session & 2-4pm Camp Tournament 
  • Coaches – Tara Fusco and Conor Mullaly
  • Age Restriction: Born on or after 1st January 2013

Limit per club – 2 boys & 2 Girls (Clubs can apply for more spaces via the office and will be offered further places dependant on uptake from other clubs). All Players must affiliate to TTI prior to attending Hopes Trials. Please click on https://tti.justgo.com/Account.mvc/Login to register and affiliate

Table-Tennis-Ireland

Job Description – Chief Executive Officer Table Tennis Ireland

by TTI News

Table Tennis Ireland is the National Governing Body (NGB) for the sport of table tennis in Ireland and is officially recognised as such by Sport Ireland. It is made up of a voluntary board elected at the AGM.

We are an all-Ireland body encompassing the 32 counties with the four Regional Provinces being responsible for organising Leagues and Competitions.

The current strategic ambition of Table Tennis Ireland is as follows:

● Modernise, professionalise and suitably resource Table Tennis Ireland (NGB) to drive and grow the sport to be relevant in a diverse and inclusive island of Ireland

● Understand the business of table tennis and strengthen our clubs to become vibrant, well-utilised facilities catering for all ages to secure the future of our sport

● Position and market table tennis as a healthy choice for all genders and all age groups which seamlessly fits into a modern Irish lifestyle

● Establish a national centre of excellence which can host major international table tennis events.

We are now in a position to appoint a CEO to run the organisation on a day-to-day basis.

The Position

As Chief Executive Officer, you will lead the organisation and be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of Table Tennis Ireland. You will be accountable to the Board, as you drive the organisation forward by implementing the current Strategic Plan.

As CEO, you will be expected to understand member’s needs, while having the ability to manage a complex portfolio of organisational responsibilities, including commercial and strategic priorities, operational effectiveness, stakeholder management, communications, and financial/governance controls.

The full job description can be found here

To be considered for this role you will need to be a strong leader, with excellent stakeholder management capabilities.

To apply please send your CV and cover letter outlining why you are suitable for this position to [email protected] by 5pm on Wednesday 4th October 2023

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Home Nations Vets Championships 2023

by MastersTTI News

On 29th of September Ireland will host the 2023 Home Nations Vets Championships. 81 players from England, Scotland, Wales, Guernsey, Isle of Man will compete with 39 players from Ireland over 3 days for team and individual honors.

Men and women will compete various age categories: Over 40s, Over 50s, Over 60s, Over 70s and Over 75s. Ladies and Men’s teams will compete at Over 40s and Over 50s categories and mixed teams will compete at Over 60s, Over 70s and Over 75s events.

The Irish team will be made up of 8  women and 31 men, with many players expected to do well. A wide variety of styles will be on display, with many strong competitors traveling to compete. Tight matches can be expected especially in team matches on Saturday morning and singles matches on Sunday Morning from 10am.

The championships will take place in the National Indoor Arena, Sport Ireland Campus, Blanchardstown ( D15 EPN4), with play beginning at 9.30 on Friday 29th. Spectators will be welcomed to the event free of charge and all are encouraged to come and support our Irish Vets team!


TTI NEW THUMBNAIL

Entries are Open for the 2023 Irish Junior Classification Tournament

by National EventsTTI News

The 2023 Irish Junior Classification Tournament will take place on Saturday the 7th of October at the Irish Wheelchair Association, Clontarf.

Entries are now open through our JustGo system (see link below) and will close Monday 25th of September 2023 @ 09:00.

Entry Link:  https://tti.justgo.com/workbench/public/events?ref=3982A81652D80FACD386E2B2C2AEAC05E7B0CD44

Any queries should be sent to [email protected]

Table-Tennis-Ireland

Performance Committee Update

by International EventsTTI News

The Board of Table Tennis Ireland is delighted to announce that they have appointed Tara Fusco as the Performance Manager. Tara has been involved in the performance portfolio nationally since 2019. Tara is a qualified Level 2 coach, and has diplomas in Sports Nutrition and Sports Psychology. The Performance committee is comprised of Conn Higgins, Alan Hurley, Paul McCreery and Marcus McDonnell.

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Update on 2023 Junior Classification

by National EventsTTI News

We wish to confirm that the 2023 Irish Junior Classification Tournament will take place on the weekend of 7th/8th of October 2023 at the Irish Wheelchair Association.

All players and coaches are advised to read the entry form for full details on the event categories and the tournament regulations. Entries will be opened through our JustGo system when the entry form is published early next week on our website.

The National Camps previously scheduled for Saturday 7th of October has been cancelled.

The tournament was originally scheduled for the weekend of 16th/17th of September 2023. Due to unforeseen circumstances, with venues not being available to us as originally planned, we’ve had to change the date of this tournament. We wish to apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused to our players, parents and coaches.  

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A night to be remembered in Balbriggan – Tommy Caffrey awarded Honorary Life Membership of Table Tennis Ireland on his 80th Birthday.

by AwardsTTI News
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Tommy Caffrey, the most famous and the most capped Irish Table Tennis player of all time was surprised when he walked into his club in Balbriggan for what he thought was a regular league match. There to greet Tommy and to celebrate his 80th Birthday was a large crowd of club members, old and new table tennis friends, family, politicians, and dignitaries, including the President of Table Tennis Ireland, Patricia Hunter. Tommy was warmly greeted with handshakes and hugs. In fact, it took quite a while for proceedings to get under way, but this was not a night to rush things. Rather than a party, the members and family had decided that an event focussing on Tommy and his table tennis career would be best, and what an enjoyable evening it turned out to be. It was a night of warm speeches, great table tennis and some very welcome refreshments. It was also the night that Tommy Caffrey was awarded Honorary Life Membership of Table Tennis Ireland, an honour which was very well deserved, especially after 151 senior caps and large number of veterans caps. It appears that Tommy is the most capped individual in Ireland in any sport. Quite the achievement.

John Keogh, on behalf of Balbriggan Table Tennis Club, opened proceedings by welcoming those in attendance and discussing Tommy’s stellar career and his valued membership of the club where is held in such high regard. Perhaps the highlight of the night was a video call from TTI’s Life President and a great friend of Tommy’s, Joe Veselsky. While the audience listened in, Joe recalled some of Tommy’s career and sent his best wishes.

Then it fell to Pat Hunter to present the Honorary Life Membership award to Tommy.  Pat recalled her first meeting with Tommy in 1964 when he coached her in Butlins Mosney, where she won a free week and the ‘most improved girl’ award. From that Pat took the audience down memory lane, as she recalled Tommy’s career and various famous games he played. There were many in the hall that also recalled those events. Tommy seemed to be able to remember every player and every score including two Irish Open titles (the first in Balbriggan in 1963) and various international matches against the best in Europe and the World at which he was, more often than not, victorious. However, the victory Tommy values most is when he and his son Colin won the men’s senior doubles at the Munster Open in Cork, beating Kevin Keane and Owen Molloy in the final. The Caffreys were not the favourites to win that day, but the tactics were for Colin to do the attacking while Tommy controlled the flow of the game. And the plan worked. Tommy mentioned that, inspired by Joe Veselsky, who will be 105 in October, he has no intention of retiring and will continue playing table tennis.

As if to prove the point, Tommy played four exhibition matches, singles and doubles including against Pat McCloughan, Board member of TTI and Balbriggan club member. The games officiated over by Dave Cunningham resulted in an honourable draw. It was lovely to see a score of young players, club juniors, watching the games and soaking up the atmosphere, and quite a bit of the cake too!

Two local politicians, Cllr Grainne Maguire, Deputy Mayor of Fingal and Cllr Tony Murphy both reflected on Tommy’s contribution to the sport but also to the locality, Balbriggan, Stamullen and Gormanstown, where he is well known.

Tommy’s daughter Denise rounded off the evening by thanking, on behalf of the Caffrey Family, all those who had organised the event and all those who had attended. Certainly, a night to be remembered. Table Tennis Ireland would like to thank the members of Balbriggan Table Tennis Club for their hospitality on the evening, their kind invitation to attend and for facilitating Tommy’s award.

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Table Tennis Ireland Shines Bright at European Euro Mini Championships (U13)

by International EventsTTI News

Over 200 young talents gathered in Schiltigheim, France, at the European Euro Mini Championships (U13 & U11). Representing Ireland with pride were Peadar Sheridan, Stefan Bonchev, Aaditya Singh, Toby Caldwell, and Karsten Close, accompanied by Irish team coaches Conn Higgins and Gervis Knox. The event showcased exceptional performances and here is how the event unfolded.

Peadar Sheridan’s Remarkable Journey

Starting with the in the under 13 boys category, Peadar Sheridan showcased his resilience and prowess, making a significant impact by reaching the main draw (last 32). Peadar navigated through three grueling group stages, each featuring four players. Notable victories in the group stages included wins against Priou and Richard of France, Muller (last year’s quarter-finalist), Sahrni of the Spanish National Team, and candelier of France.

Peadar’s path led him to a close encounter with Closset, the World No.10 from Belgium, where he fought valiantly but narrowly missed out in a three-set match. In the 17-32 playoff, Peadar encountered tough competition in Razak from the Czech Republic, the European No.11 and going down 3-1.

However, Peadar’s shining moment came on the final day, where he secured three impressive wins against Malik of Denmark, Andrade of Portugal, and Lois of Spain, clinching a well-deserved 25th position. Peadar’s overall performance was nothing short of impressive, and he is still in the age category next year!

Peadar Sheridan in action

Aaditya Singh and Toby Caldwell’s Determined Efforts

Also in the under 13s category, Aaditya Singh and Toby Caldwell represented Ireland with enthusiasm. Though they didn’t progress beyond the stage one groups, their determination was evident in every match. Aaditya’s commendable effort included a thrilling 3-2 battle against Sandona, a top 16 finisher. Toby’s remarkable performance was highlighted by a closely contested match against Ellerman, a top player from Sweden, which saw him fighting fiercely in three close sets. Aaditya was able to finish with two wins in the consaltion whilst Toby took one victory, well done boys.

Stefan Bonchev’s Inspiring Top 16 Finish!

Stefan Bonchev shone brightly in the under 11 category, where he embarked on an epic journey to reach the last 16 stage. Stefan’s exceptional wins against opponents like Campagna of the Italian National Team showcased his talent and perseverance. While he faced a tough match against Issakason from Sweden in the last 16, Stefan’s resilience was evident in every set and narrloy lost out in the 5th set.

His journey continued in the places 9-16 bracket, where he faced off against Maran of France losing 3-1 to the French National Team player. Stefan kept battling hard and emerged victorious in his last two outstanding matches against Jaffiner (France) and Escudier (France), finishing in a superb 11th place, many congratulations Stefan!

Stefan Bonchev in action

Karsten Close’s Strong Performance

Also in the U11s Karsten Close demonstrated his mettle in the competition, displaying notable performance against formidable French opponents in his first round group. Despite not advancing from the group stage, Karsten’s showed great fight in every match whilst gaining great experience. In the consolation matches, Karsten secured three impressive wins, showcasing his potential for growth and future success!

A Special Thanks to Coaches Conn and Gervis

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our coaches Conn Higgins and Gervis Knox, who tirelessly coached and guided the young athletes throughout the weekend. Their expertise and support played a pivotal role in the success and growth of the Irish contingent. The experience gained by the players under their guidance will undoubtedly contribute to their future achievements.

The European Euro Mini Championships not only brought thrilling matches but also showcased the talent we have coming through in the mini cadets. As these young athletes continue to train and develop, the future of Irish table tennis looks bright.

Congratulations to all the players for their outstanding performances and to the coaches for their unwavering support!

Conn Higgins giving instructions to Stefan Bonchev
Coach Gervis Knox and Peadar Sheridan look watching the action
Team Ireland Photo (Coach Gervis Knox, Toby Caldwell, Stefan Bonchev, Peadar Sheridan, Karsten Close, Aaditya SIngh and Coach Conn Higgins)
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Ulster Masters 2023/24

by MastersTTI News

A comprehensive series of events has been arranged within Ulster for both 40s and 60s, and
ranking lists in each category will be produced after each event. The final ranking positions
will be taken from the best 7 of the 10 tournaments plus points gained in the 40s and 60s
categories in the 2 Irish Masters events held in Ulster, the Glenburn and the St. Anne’s Ulster
Masters.


Ranking points will be awarded to Ulster players participating in each of these 12 events on
the following basis (non-Ulster players will be excluded from points) –
Winner 150
Runner-up 100
Semi 75
Quarters 50
Last 16 25
Last 32 10
Last 64 5


Rankings will be updated after each event by Norman McBride, and all organisers are asked
to email Norman at [email protected] with full results urgently.


The overall winner in each category will receive a perpetual trophy to be retained for one
year, the winners and runners-up will receive a memento.


The Ulster Closed 40s winner will also receive the Frank Spalding Memorial Trophy.


The Interpro Teams will be selected shortly after the Ulster Closed, which will be the last
event to count for selection. It is intended that 4 men and 2 ladies will be selected, subject to
participation in relation to ladies. The selectors are Norman Nabney and Norman McBride.


Selection criteria –
2 men will be selected from 40s rankings, the number 1 in the Ulster 40s rankings and the
Ulster player highest in the Irish 40s rankings. If the same player qualifies from both ranking
lists, the number 2 in the Ulster 40s rankings will gain the second automatic place
The selectors will then pick 2 wild cards. The criteria to be considered for these selections
will include Irish and Ulster rankings, results this season against likely Interpro opponents
(particularly those from Leinster), previous performances in Interpros and tournaments, and
events missed primarily through illness or injury.


For the ladies we have a very small pool, and we will select according to tournament results
and availability.


TTI NEW THUMBNAIL

Senior Classification Draws and Timetable- 26th and 27th of August

by National EventsTTI News

The Senior Classification is taking place this weekend in the DCU Sports Complex on Saturday and Sunday, 26th and 27th of August.

Please see attached the draws for Saturday. DCU is open at 8am, check-in at 8.30am and play starts 9am sharp.

Sunday’s groups will not be completed until after the qualifying event on Saturday. 

Please keep an eye out on our website and social medias for updates on the draws.

Men’s Groups: https://tabletennisireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/mens-senior-classification-groups.pdf

Women’s Groups:

To be confirmed


Parking 

There is free parking at the DCU library. Please do not park at the 5 a-side pitches beside DCU Sports complex.

Saturday 26th: 

  • Men’s Qualifier Event: Beginning at 9am, check in at 8:30am.
  • Women’s Qualifier Event: Beginning at 9am, check in at 8:30am

Sunday 27th

  • Women’s Event: Beginning at 10am
  • Men’s Event: Beginning at 10am

Live Streaming

Make sure to check out our YouTube channel for some live streams that will be taking place throughout the weekend:  

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnbdL2IO82NUK4hG_muZRzA

Catering 

There is a shop around the corner from the DCU sports Complex were people can buy refreshments and food.

Anti-doping Update:

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) 2022 List of Prohibitive Substances has been updated since the 1st of January 2022. Sport Ireland launched the Anti-Doping Digital Wallet Card for 2022 (attached). It is essential that all players and support personnel whether coaches, physicians, or doctors attached to clubs or teams, consult this educational card, as well as the closely related Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes. 

Enjoy the event and we would like to wish to wish all the players, coaches, officials and volunteers the very best of luck at the weekend! 

Wishing everyone the very best in the new upcoming season.