A strong foundation for the future of table tennis

Many young players' first experience of sport is in relaxed places like a school hall, an after-school club, or a quick game with friends. These simple beginnings can often lead to something more regular and rewarding. In Hastings, Bexhill, and Battle, junior table tennis now gives young people a unique chance to join a team where quick thinking and fast reflexes matter just as much as teamwork and friendship. 

For many juniors, this is the real draw. Table tennis is easy to start but endlessly challenging, and the atmosphere stays friendly even as competition intensifies. With the local junior programme growing stronger each year, table tennis here has become much more than a casual activity – it’s about introducing young people to a sport that benefits both physical health and cognitive development, with skills that can carry into many other areas of life and a confidence that one can only find in the process of learning a new sport

There has been a steady increase in young people's interest in table tennis, with 12 teams of two participating in the junior league this year. The number of teams may vary each season, depending on how many people sign up for competitions. Some people also join sessions just to train and have fun, even if they do not want to compete. 

At the moment, three clubs in the area are offering junior sessions: Tackleway TT, Bexhill TTC, and Simply Table Tennis. League players are also drawn from these clubs. But what makes these sessions especially welcoming is that there are no restrictions on joining any of the three based on where you live. Anyone interested – even those from outside of the borough – is free to take part in training or compete in the league. This open approach means that young players can find the club that suits them best, no matter where they live, and it gives them the chance to get involved in the sport even if there isn't a club near them. 

To keep things fair, league matches are organised into two divisions, running from February through to late March over a six-to eight-week period, with a break for the Easter Bank Holiday. Matches are played every Friday at Ark Alexander Academy, which is centrally located for ease of travel, and take place on Fridays to avoid interrupting school schedules. Training sessions take place all year round, with anyone under the age of 19 being able to join – Though it helps to be able to see over the table!  

Juniors who do not wish to compete in league matches are still welcome to participate in regular sessions and can even train alongside those who are playing competitively. This allows everyone to feel included, whether they're there for the competition or simply to enjoy the game. Those who opt to play competitively are not restricted to lower divisions because of their age, and there are even a fair number of juniors now competing alongside senior players from divisions 4 to 1. Whilst modest in size compared to major urban leagues, the league still offers more opportunities for players to advance and compete at a range of levels, from district to regional and even national competitions, as one junior, Liam Higgins (age 11), has demonstrated. 

Liam is a great example of not knowing where you might end up after one seemingly insignificant choice to start something new. Joining junior sessions with Simply Table Tennis just two and a half years ago, he is now in Adult Division 1 of the league and also competes at a national level, most recently finishing second in doubles at the National Table Tennis Championships in April. All players are encouraged to play at a level where they feel comfortable, so there is never any pressure, and if you want to follow in Liam’s footsteps, you will be supported from the ground up by a team of volunteer coaches and a community of players. 

Many remarkable sports stories begin in our local courts and community halls, where enthusiastic individuals are keen to embrace new opportunities. By fostering an environment that encourages more young people to take part – be it for competitive enjoyment, social connections, or the pursuit of a new passion – we can help support the growth of local table tennis. Each new player contributes their unique qualities, keeping the game vibrant and engaging within our community clubs. As grassroots sports continue to evolve, the enthusiasm of the next generation provides a solid foundation for their sustained success and a promising future. The future of clubs like these depends on young players getting involved, but it also rests with the volunteers and regulars who show up every season. When it comes to these clubs, it’s the older generation who take the lead in welcoming newcomers, passing on their experience, and making sure everyone feels part of the team.

If you are interested in getting involved in the Junior or Adult leagues, either for yourself or a child, please contact [email protected] for more information.