Table tennis is one of the most accessible sports in Ireland — it’s social, affordable, easy to start, and it brings people together across ages, backgrounds and abilities. Starting a club is a brilliant way to build local community, create healthy weekly activity, and open a pathway into organised sport.

Why start a table tennis club or recreational community group?

Opening a club /community group lets you turn your passion into something that makes a real difference — fostering connection, confidence and belonging, while also growing the sport in your area. Table Tennis Ireland (TTI) is committed to expanding the number of affiliated clubs /community groups across the island and supporting new clubs to get established well. 

What TTI can support you with

TTI’s Club Development Handbook is designed as a practical guide at every stage of club development — including “how to start and run a club”, volunteer roles, templates, and support to build sustainable clubs. 

A simple “Start a Club” pathway

Step 1: Build a small starter group (3–6 people is plenty to begin)

Step 2: Secure a regular venue (school hall, parish centre, community hall, leisure centre)

Step 3: Get the basics (tables, nets, bats, balls; start small and grow)

Step 4: Decide your club type (Junior / Senior / Mixed / Inclusive) 

Step 5: Put basic governance in place (roles, simple rules, safeguarding approach)

Step 6: Use TTI templates (e.g., sample club constitution) 

Step 7: Affiliate with TTI to access supports, systems and visibility (see next page) 

Get started: If you’re new to table tennis or considering forming a club, TTI encourages you to contact your Community & Club Development Officer (CCDO) in the first instance.

Our Provincial Branches work with many schools across the country, and host various leagues and events throughout the year.

If your school would like to get involved, please see the contact details below for your respective province.

Connacht – Niall O’Flaherty
[email protected]; 0861676495,
Leinster- [email protected]
Munster – Mr Ben Haughton [email protected]
Ulster– Mr Norman McBride – [email protected]

Schools Training

Table Tennis Ireland offers various fun-based training, participation and coaching programmes in primary, secondary and special needs schools across the whole of Ireland. We offer Youth Leadership Programmes for both males and females.

For further information on these programmes and how we can assist your school, please contact [email protected]