WHS Table Tennis Academy

 

 

5x60 is pleased to report that the Whitchuch High School Table-Tennis Academy that has been running at the school since last September is proving to be a massive success.  The academy set up in partnership with The Table Tennis Association of Wales offers five hours of coaching a week by Welsh coach Simon Oyler. 

Already in the winter term alone 100 different pupils have attended at least one session, with a core group of around 50 attending on a weekly basis at Upper and Lower school.  A group of the players are now involved in attending matches and competitions outside of school against other teams and schools.  Last week saw the squad receive their first ever school strip (pictured), so the players involved can represent the academy and school proudly when in competitions at the school and off site also. 

On Sunday 6th Febuary we had 10 players from the academy enter the latest Dragon Table Tennis grand prix at Sophia Gardens.  This is the third time we have had players enter this year and results have improved each time. 

Kitted out in their new strip all 10 did fantastically well and really enjoyed playing against players from other clubs and teams from South Wales.  And we’re pleased to announce that the academy has had it’s first tournament winner!! Alasdair Weir from year 8 won the U13 section, going unbeaten in all his games!  Huw Standen finished a hard earned 4th in the U13’s also.   And in the U15 section Lewis Steere had his best result to date, finishing in 3rd place. 

On Tuesday 8th Febuary the squad takes part in the first round of the Cardiff schools league at Cathays High School.  We will keep you posted as to how they get on.