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.
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.
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 BonchevCoach Gervis Knox and Peadar Sheridan look watching the actionTeam Ireland Photo (Coach Gervis Knox, Toby Caldwell, Stefan Bonchev, Peadar Sheridan, Karsten Close, Aaditya SIngh and Coach Conn Higgins)
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.
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.
National Para coach Sam Louge has created the following report on recent activities within National Para Table Tennis this year.
High Performance:
After competing in Montenegro, Slovenia and Poland in May Colin Judge took a break for 2 weeks.
Since coming back he has trained consistently. Colin performed quite well in Montenegro, while harbouring an injury. He lost in the quarter final to the world no.1 Feng Panfeng but had some good wins against German and French opposition enroute to the Quarter finals. Colin participated in Slovenia alone and it was a difficult tournament for him going out in the group stage. In Poland Colin performed very well implementing some stylistic changes enroute to winning his group and beating world no.8 in the semi-final. In a good performance in the final, where he held a match point, he unfortunately lost 2-3 to Ciric from Serbia. Colin will attend a training camp in Slovakia in August before heading to the European championships in Shefield in early September.
Development/Pathway:
Sean Geoghegan played in the Montenegro Open and was reclassified from class 9 to class 8 which was a big win for him. In the tournament Sean was unsuccessful in his singles group losing in straight sets in his three matches. In the doubles with Britain’s Ryan Henry, Sean won one match and lost two. Paddy Vaughan and Conor O’Callaghan competed in the Polish Open. Paddy had a great tournament winning two matches in his group, one of which against the eventual runner up of the tournament. Paddy lost to the group winner and eventual tournament winner 0-3 which meant he lost out on countback and did not progress to the main draw. Conor had a difficult tournament losing both matches in his group 0-3. Paddy and Conor together reached the quarter final of the men’s doubles 14 event with a good win against Hong Kong opposition in their group. Paddy also reached the quarter final of the mixed doubles event with his Spanish partner. They lost a close 3-2 encounter to lose out on a medal.
The Development and Pathway Squads attended a training camp in Brighton TTC in August. This was a fantastic experience for all of the players. In attendance were Paddy Vaughan, Sean Geoghegan, Aaron Mellows, Jude Sheldon, Caoimhe Folan and Des Ryan. World no.1 class 7 player Will Bayley was present for all sessions and gave time and advice to everyone. The club made sure there were extra coaches and sparring partners there for all sessions. This trip provided the players with an opportunity to train two sessions per day for three days in a row in a focused environment which they normally don’t get. This is great learning for these players to see what needs to be done and how it needs to be done to get to the next level. Being in the company of a world and paralympic champion, Will was perhaps the most beneficial aspect of the camp. The players got to play with him, see him train and hear him speak. This is invaluable experience. Will’s enthusiasm and incredible work ethic along with his undeniable love for the game was infectious and the players responded well to being around him. The club’s manager, Tim, along with Will, left no stone unturned in looking after us and making sure we were happy. This is a relationship we will develop going forward.
Performance and Pathway Plans:
Colin, Paddy and Sean will attend a training camp in Slovakia with national teams from Spain, Slovakia and Serbia. This was organised with Montenegro open tournament director Alexandra Dragasova. This will be a preparation camp for the European championships for Colin and Paddy.
The goal for Colin is a medal. On the back of a great performance in Poland and great work in the training hall, this is an appropriate goal for him. The goal for Paddy is to win at least one match in his group. Paddy has the ability to trouble most players in his class but this is his first major championship in a long time.
Stefan Bonchev traveled to the ETTU Euro Talents pre selection camp in Kiskunfelegyhaza, Hungary accompanied by Coach Conn Higgins.
Over six days Stefan trained with some of the best U13 boys in Europe. He also played a tournament where he played 20 of those boys (where all matches would be 3 sets).
Stefan won 10 of those matches, winning 34 sets and losing 26. This left Stefan in eighth position from 28 participants.
A very creditable performance as he has 2 more years in this age group.
At a Board meeting at the end of July, there was approval to update the current membership scheme for the coming season. The following changes were agreed to be implemented from 1st of August 2023:
The Single Event licence will be retained from last season after a successful trial:
Junior Single Event licence will remain €5.75/£5
Senior Single Event licence will increase to €10/£9
To help increase participation and membership in clubs and leagues, and allow the growing numbers of social and recreational players and groups at community level to enjoy the benefits of membership, the following rates will be introduced this season:
Juniors Club/League Player €2.50/£2
Seniors Club/League Player €5.75/£5
The ‘League Player only’ license, which cost €20 previously, will be replaced with the Seniors Club/League Player licence
It was agreed that the fees for Junior (1-19 yrs; €15), Senior (20-39 yrs; €35), Veteran (40yrs+; €20), and Coaches/Officials/Volunteer (€15) will remain unchanged.
Please email [email protected] if you have any queries and we will assist you with any queries you may have. To renew your membership online, please visit the Table Tennis Ireland membership system via our website
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