Table Tennis Wales and Welsh Gymnastics collaborate to engage young people

Table Tennis Wales and Welsh Gymnastics collaborate to engage young people

WSA members Table Tennis Wales and Welsh Gymnastics have recently embarked on a new collaboration, aiming to provide additional opportunities for young people, especially women and girls, to participate in sport. 

This collaborative initiative promotes the health and social benefits of table tennis to new audiences, as well as getting non-participants – particular female – engaged with table tennis.

Table Tennis Wales’ Regional Development Officer for Gwent, Cerys Evans, led on discussions with Welsh Gymnastics, with a pilot session taking place recently at Valleys Gymnastics Academy (VGA).

The gymnastics club is renowned for supporting their local community and have a strong relationship with StreetGames, another key stakeholder in the initiative.  

“I had the opportunity to work with a wide range of participants, including parents and several groups of gymnasts throughout the evening,” Cerys said when discussing the pilot session. 

“The response was extremely positive, with participants enjoying the activities and providing great feedback about having table tennis available within the club setting.

“A special thank you must also go to Gareth from StreetGames, who kindly provided prizes for participants, which helped add to the fun and engagement during the session.” 

The two NGBs will continue working together in the hope of spreading this initiative, increasing its reach and the impact on young people across Welsh communities.

Claire Biddle, Head of Participation at Table Tennis Wales, commented: 

“This pilot is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships and innovative thinking.  

“Cerys has played a key role in developing this project, from the initial conversations with Welsh Gymnastics at a StreetGames event through to its successful delivery at Valleys Gymnastics Academy.  

“This initiative directly supports our Growth & Participation ambitions by engaging new audiences, particularly women and girls, while highlighting the health, wellbeing and social benefits that table tennis can bring. We’re excited to build on the success of this pilot with Welsh Gymnastics and explore opportunities to roll the initiative out to gymnastics clubs across Wales.”