The collaboration between Coleg Cambria and Table Tennis Wales has made significant progress in the last 12 months, working with communities and schools across North Wales.
Regional development officer Aaron Beech has been working with clubs, PE teachers, and grassroots organisations to find the country’s next Olympic, Commonwealth, or world champion.
The academy held four festivals at the college’s Yale site in Wrexham, supported by GCSE pupils, targeting primary school children.
More than 300 attended the events, taking part in matches and fun activities.
Mr Beech said: “We also delivered festivals at Deeside Leisure Centre and Northop for primary and secondary schools, working with Aura Leisure and local coaches.
“And the numerous taster sessions we held across Flintshire, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, Conwy, and Anglesey have allowed us to engage with more than 2,000 youngsters, introducing them to the joys of table tennis and fostering a love for the sport.”
As well as focusing on elite competition, the returning Food and Fun programme will feature table tennis clubs from Ewloe, Northop, Rhyl, and Trinity Club in Trefnant, encouraging children to stay active and eat healthily in the summer.
Another important partner for the academy is Disability Sport Wales, which has helped Mr Beech and the team promote inclusivity and accessibility for all.
Mr Beech said: “We are actively signposting players to local clubs and are on the lookout for our next Paralympian, fostering a supportive environment.
“Whether it’s county training and selection days, ensuring a robust and competitive environment for our athletes, or sessions for learners with disabilities, we have a total commitment to encouraging as many people as we can, bolstered by the commitment and enthusiasm of our coaches, who are instrumental in the success we’ve had to this point.”
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Mr Beech added: “The strong partnerships we have built up since launching have been pivotal, including Bangor University – where we held a Veterans Team Championships and the inaugural Bangor Open – or the exploratory work we are doing with the Girl Guides and Boy Scouts troops.
“Our initiatives in North Wales have made a substantial impact on the community, promoting physical activity and growing a love for table tennis among youngsters.
“I look forward to continuing our work and furthering our reach in the coming months.”
For more information, email aaron.beech@tabletennis.wales or visit tabletennis.wales.
