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Upcoming Level 1 Coaching course – Ulster

Table Tennis Ireland are delighted to announce we will hold a level 1 coaching course taking place  on 

Saturday 21st September and Saturday 16th November in Edenderry Primary School, 1a Lurgan Road, Banbridge, BT32 4AF.

This is a two-day course, with a 8-10 weeks between both sessions. The course includes both theory and practical elements , with some independent learning required between the two course dates. The course is highly rewarding and will provide coaches with a high understanding of the game and allows coaches to further enhance their coaching skills. Learners are expected to complete home study and practical coaching tasks between each day of the course.
 
 
The course will take place over 2 days and attendance is mandatory on both days to complete the course.
This is a sport Ireland recognised level 1 coaching award.
The cost to attend this course is €150.
 
This course can only cater for a maximum of 16 participants.
 
Participants will be registered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. 
Please note course requirements before registration.

Course requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be 16+
  • Have Valid Garda Vetting/ Access Ni with TTI
  • Have Safeguarding 1 Certificate

Please Send proof of the above to [email protected] after registering. If you do not hold all certifications required please show proof of intent to complete the above eg, booking confirmation for safeguarding course. These courses will need to be signed off before certification is approved.   

*Please note Vetting and safeguarding must be valid for at least 6 months from the first day of the course*,

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Upcoming Level 1 Coaching course – Leinster

Table Tennis Ireland are delighted to announce we will hold a level 1 coaching course taking place  on Saturday 30th of November and Saturday the 25th of January in Blackrock  Community College, Blackrock, Dublin.
This is a two-day course, with a 8-10 weeks between both sessions. The course includes both theory and practical elements , with some independent learning required between the two course dates. The course is highly rewarding and will provide coaches with a high understanding of the game and allows coaches to further enhance their coaching skills. Learners are expected to complete home study and practical coaching tasks between each day of the course.
 
 
The course will take place over 2 days and attendance is mandatory on both days to complete the course.
This is a sport Ireland recognised level 1 coaching award.
The cost to attend this course is €150.
 
This course can only cater for a maximum of 16 participants.
 
Participants will be registered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Please note course requirements before registration.

Course requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be 16+
  • Have Valid Garda Vetting/ Access Ni with TT
  • Have Safeguarding 1 Certificate

Register here:

https://tti.justgo.com/workbench/public/events?ref=02657C59DC12EB71558B61B0C2E2168C36612ACA

Please Send proof of the above to [email protected] after registering. If you do not hold all certifications required please show proof of intent to complete the above eg, booking confirmation for safeguarding course. These courses will need to be signed off before certification is approved.

*Please note Vetting and safeguarding must be valid for at least 6 months from the first day of the course**

Table-Tennis-Ireland

Hopes Trials 2024 Nominations

TTI is currently catering for the reemergence of a newly structured Hopes & Development Programme, starting with the annual Hopes Trials to be held on the 28th of September. The idea is for clubs to nominate forward 2 boys and 2 Girls born on or after 1st January 2014 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 bi-monthly training sessions 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 and 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 28th September 2024  
  • Venue – The Loop Table Tennis Club, Raheny Road, Raheny, D05 Y132 
  • Time – 9:30am-3:30pm (Lunch break from 12:00-1:00pm). Please Players are required to arrive for check in at 9:00am.   
  •  Price – €30 Per Child   
  •  Schedule – 10:00am-12:00pm Training Session & 1:30-3:30pm Camp Tournament   
  •  Coaches – Tara Fusco and Conor Mullaly  
  •  Age Restriction: Born on or after 1st January 2014  

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. 


Yours sincerely, 

Table Tennis Ireland 

Table-Tennis-Ireland

Ryan Harrison

Participation and Inclusion Officer (Ulster)
[email protected]
TTI NEW THUMBNAIL

Entries are Open for the 2024 Irish Junior Classification Tournament

The 2024 Irish Junior Classification Tournament will take place on Saturday the 14th of September at the Irish Wheelchair Association, Clontarf.

Entries are now open through our JustGo system (see link below) and will close Wednesday the 4th of September 2024 @ 23:59.

Entry Link:  https://tti.justgo.com/workbench/public/events?ref=BBDE7D1E51006FDB58EB5343A30462828C8DF14A

Any queries should be sent to [email protected]

Please click here to view entry form.

We hope to see you there!

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Colin Judge: Inspiring a New Generation of Para-Athletes 

Table Tennis Ireland is at the forefront of promoting inclusivity in sports, particularly through its para-table tennis program. With the upcoming Paralympics in Paris 2024, the organisation is not only focused on increasing awareness of para-table tennis but also on inspiring participation among individuals with disabilities. One of the program’s shining stars, Colin Judge, a soon-to-be two-time Paralympian, embodies the spirit of determination, resilience, and passion that Table Tennis Ireland aims to promote. His journey offers valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring athletes and strengthens the organisation’s reputation as a leader in para-sports.

Colin Judge: A Story of Resilience and Inspiration

Colin Judge’s journey in table tennis began at a young age. Growing up, he was surrounded by friends who were mostly involved in rugby, a sport that didn’t resonate with him due to his disability. However, when he discovered table tennis, it became a turning point in his life. Despite the challenges of adapting to the sport with one limb, Colin found in table tennis not just a hobby, but a lifelong passion. “Table tennis was more than just a sport for me,” Colin reflects. “It gave me a drive that I never had before, and it became an outlet that helped me grow both socially and physically.”

Colin’s story is a powerful reminder that sports can offer more than physical benefits; they can provide a sense of belonging, purpose, and identity, especially for those who may feel marginalised due to their disabilities. As Colin prepares for his second Paralympics, he emphasises how important it is to have his family and friends by his side in Paris, something that was missing from his experience in Tokyo 2020. “I feel very honoured and proud to represent my country at the top level, and to share this with my family and friends will be very special,” he says.

Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others

Colin’s path has not been without its obstacles. One of the most significant challenges he faced was his reclassification in 2017, which saw him moved to a class with stronger competitors. The change led to the loss of his ranking, funding, and qualification hopes for the Rio 2016 Paralympics. However, instead of giving up, Colin used this setback to fuel his determination. “The hardest thing for me was competing against athletes considerably stronger than me,” he admits. “But it made me a much better player, and I learned to measure my success not by results, but by my performance.”

This resilience is what makes Colin a role model for aspiring athletes. He emphasises the importance of believing in oneself, a lesson instilled in him by his parents from a young age. “My mom always told me never to be afraid to fail,” Colin shares. “That mindset has been crucial in helping me overcome obstacles and continue pushing forward.”

Strengthening the Para-Table Tennis Program

Table Tennis Ireland is committed to expanding its para-table tennis program and ensuring it remains inclusive for all. The organisation is actively working with rehabilitation hospitals and schools across the country to introduce table tennis to more individuals with disabilities. Colin Judge’s success on the international stage serves as proof that athletes from Ireland can compete at the highest levels, and Table Tennis Ireland hopes to inspire more people to join the sport.

Looking ahead, both Colin and Sam have their sights set on the future. Colin plans to continue competing, with a goal of representing Ireland at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. “I still have more to give to the sport,” Colin says. “I want to continue pushing myself and hopefully inspire others to do the same.”

Conclusion

As Table Tennis Ireland gears up for Paris 2024, the organisation is not only focused on the competition but also on the bigger picture: inspiring a new generation of para-athletes, building a supportive community, and promoting the sport across the country. Colin Judge’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of sports, and through his story, Table Tennis Ireland hopes to reach and inspire individuals with disabilities to take up table tennis, pursue their dreams, and believe in their potential.

Together, with the support of the Irish public, we can create a brighter future for para-sports in Ireland, one that is inclusive, inspiring, and full of possibilities. Let’s get behind Team Ireland in Paris 2024 and continue to support our athletes as they make history on the world stage.

Want to help bring more people into the world of table tennis? Whether you’re an individual, organisation, or venue, we’d love to team up with you to make table tennis and para-table tennis more accessible across Ireland. Let’s work together to inspire future athletes and create a welcoming community for everyone. Reach out to us today on [email protected]

TTI NEW THUMBNAIL

Entries are Open for the 2024 Irish Senior Classification Tournament

The 2024 Irish Senior Classification Qualifying Tournament will take place on the 31st of August and 1st of September at Dublin City University.

Entries are now open through our JustGo system (see link below) and will close Friday the 16th of August 2023 @ 1pm.

Entry Link: https://tti.justgo.com/workbench/public/Events?ref=D20C8D3A1571BD0F5AAFC4AD041370EDFA17A3FE

Any queries should be sent to [email protected]

Colin Judge Save the Date

Colin Judge Paralympics Send off – 16th August

During our holding camp for the Paralympic Games, we’re excited to announce a special send-off event for Colin Judge!! Join us on the afternoon/evening of August 16th for a mini tournament & Try it event in the National Indoor Arena

We hope to have representatives from The Government, Sport Ireland, Sport Ireland Institute, Paralympics Ireland, Table Tennis Ireland, and more. Please spread the word and get friends and family involved!

Schedule :
-Try it event: 4pm
-Competitive matches: 6pm-8/8:30pm

Match 1: Colin Judge vs. the legend Michael Cunningham – 6pm
Match 2: Colin Judge vs. Sem Roelofs from Holland – 7:30pm

This is a fantastic opportunity to see international level matches on home soil! We’ll share the exact timeline once confirmed so you can plan accordingly.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on the 16th!

Colin is expected to play in Paris on the 1st/2nd of September. If you’re planning to fly over/purchase tickets, mark your calendars!

Table-Tennis-Ireland

Club Affiliation Announcement

Table Tennis Ireland are delighted to announce our new Club affiliation scheme for the 24-25 season. Club affiliation will be processed through our membership platform JustGo and will cost €25 per club.

Benefits of affiliating with Table Tennis Ireland:

  • Priority access to discounted courses like, disability training, safeguarding courses and TT specific coaching development courses. (CPD) 
  • Priority access will be given to affiliated clubs who wish to send volunteers on coaching courses. 
  • Use of the Just Go Platform to manage the membership of the club. 
  • Club contact details advertised on the TTI website club section. 
  • Complimentary vetting (Garda and Access NI) of volunteers/coaches to ensure compliance with Sport Ireland and Sport NI codes of ethics. 
  • Continued support and updating of the TTI Club Handbook which will support good governance and the development of the club. 
  • Opportunity to apply for TTI grant and equipment lottery schemes. 
  • Clubs can apply for Sports Capital and Equipment Grants once affiliated to Table Tennis Ireland (applies to clubs in ROI only). 
  • TTI to update all Northern Ireland Clubs on funding initiatives and links with NI Sports Forum. 
  • We will advise the Club Administrator when their Local Sports Partnership or Council are making grants available for sport clubs or community organisations. 
  • Insurance policy in Place for all Clubs (only if all members of the club are affiliated)– TTI has provided an Insurance Webinar recently, this webinar  along with relevant documentation can be found here Insurance Webinar – Table Tennis Ireland

The following other benefits/incentives are available to clubs who affiliate include: 

  • As the National Governing Body for table tennis on the island of Ireland your fees help go towards the costs to operate, develop and grow the sport. 
  • Each club will have access to support from TTI staff to help the club implement good governance, safeguarding practices and volunteer recruitment and much more. 
  • An increase in the number of clubs affiliated to Table Tennis Ireland is beneficial to TTI when we submit grant applications to our stakeholders. We can show that current investments are making a positive impact on the growth of our sport. 
  • Increased individual and club data on the membership and membership numbers will be beneficial to TTI and the club when applying for grants 

A big thank you to all those who took the time to attend our webinars regarding the new affiliation process last week. If you missed the webinars, recordings can be given upon request. Please email [email protected] to access the recording.

Clubs can begin the affiliation process by filling out this form

Please find attached documentation to help you through this process:

  1. Affiliation Notice
  2. Club Affiliation June 24
  3. Club Affiliation checklist
  4. Club Journey
  5. Club Code of Conduct
  6. Sport Ireland safeguarding information

If anybody has any questions regarding club affiliation, please contact [email protected]

TTI Logo

Job Opportunity: Community and Club Development Officer (Munster)

Table Tennis Ireland (TTI) is the National Governing Body for Table Tennis within the 4 provinces of Ireland. Table Tennis Ireland’s Vision is to make Table Tennis ‘a sport for all, a sport for life’. It is a sport suitable for all age groups, from juniors to veterans, as well as able bodied and those with a disability. Table Tennis Ireland (TTI) serves as the governing body for Table Tennis in Ireland, dedicated to promoting and developing the sport nationwide. Committed to developing a vibrant table tennis community, TTI aims to enhance participation at all levels while championing inclusivity and diversity within the sport.

Table Tennis Ireland is seeking passionate and dedicated Community and Club Development Officer to join our team in the Munster region. The ideal candidates will drive initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement, developing table tennis clubs, and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in the sport.  

Table Tennis Ireland is looking for a candidate who will enjoy working as part of the TTI team but be prepared to work remotely. Initially, we are looking for a Development officer to cover Munster (part-time, 3-4 days a week). You will need to be flexible with your hours to include evening and weekend work to drive our strategic plan in the region assigned. We are open to filling this post on a part time basis and job sharing is also an option if that means getting the right candidates for the roles.

Click here to view full Job Description 

To apply for any role, please upload the following through Indeed (see link below):

    • Cover letter to include a personal statement addressing the essential criteria in the job description and why an applicant believes their skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.

    • CV outlining your previous education and work experience to date.

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Upcoming Level 1 Coaching course – Leinster

Table Tennis Ireland are delighted to announce we will hold a level 1 coaching course taking place  on 

Saturday 7th September and Saturday 9th November in Milltown community Centre, Mullingar, West Meath.

This is a two-day course, with a 8-10 weeks between both sessions. The course includes both theory and practical elements , with some independent learning required between the two course dates. The course is highly rewarding and will provide coaches with a high understanding of the game and allows coaches to further enhance their coaching skills. Learners are expected to complete home study and practical coaching tasks between each day of the course.
 
 
The course will take place over 2 days and attendance is mandatory on both days to complete the course.
This is a sport Ireland recognised level 1 coaching award.
The cost to attend this course is €150.
 
This course can only cater for a maximum of 16 participants.
 
Participants will be registered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Please note course requirements before registration.

Course requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be 16+
  • Have Valid Garda Vetting/ Access Ni with TT
  • Have Safeguarding 1 Certificate

Please Send proof of the above to [email protected] after registering. If you do not hold all certifications required please show proof of intent to complete the above eg, booking confirmation for safeguarding course. These courses will need to be signed off before certification is approved.   

*Please note Vetting and safeguarding must be valid for at least 6 months from the first day of the course**,

Level 1 Coaching course (1)