THE ISLE of Wight Table Tennis Association – one of the oldest in England – is reflecting on its past and getting excited for the future, as it celebrates its centenary year.
It has been reflecting on its 100 year journey, seeing the Association progress from playing in cold community halls on makeshift tables, to its now excellent facilities at Smallbrook.
John Prean was instrumental in the building of its Ryde-based centre, and his son Carl was an outstanding player, who represented England and won many national accolades.
The centre is owned by the IW County Table Tennis Association and within, there are ample opportunities to get involved, with junior players presented with a sponsored shirt with the Association’s logo as soon as they start league matches, as an incentive to get stuck in.
In a recent tournament, held to celebrate the centenary, all four semi-finalists were junior players, showing the Association’s potential and optimism it has for the future.
As Spring approaches, it looks forward to Finals Night, where the last matches in all tournaments are played, and members come to watch the best that the Island has to offer.
In addition, the Island usually welcomes ‘overseas’ players for the England Leagues Cup Competition and the annual charity tournament for the hospice.
In July, eight of the Association’s best players will participate in the Island Games in Guernsey.
Danny Burns, Island table tennis team captain, said: “The squad have all enjoyed good seasons, so we go into these Island Games in good form.
“We will all be determined to do our very best.”
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