Table tennis open to try

AS the Bendigo and District Table Tennis Association reopen the doors to their Olympic-grade stadium, they’re inviting kids and teens to try out the sport for free.

A juniors come and try day is scheduled for next Friday, 12 November from 6pm to 8pm and is open to anyone up to 18 years old.

BDTTA president Gary Warnest said the event was a no-pressure opportunity to get introduced to a new physical activity.

“What we’re trying to do is to give young people an exposure to the sport, show them what we’ve got to offer and see that it can be a whole lot of fun,” he said.

“They’ll be able to see some of our existing players having a hit so they can see the standard they could possibly reach. Also, there’ll be some of our senior players there to give some coaching hints.”

Mr Warnest said it was difficult for the club to have to restrict players in the stadium and keep numbers to a 10-person maximum under previous COVID rules, but they were looking forward to facilitating play again.

“One of the things we were thinking about is that during this lockdown, a lot of people have been very restricted in either their physical activity or socialising with other people,” he said.

“We’re also finding that people are trying to play table tennis on their kitchen table or out in their garage.

“We’re trying to give them a pathway to take it to the next level and show them that there is a structure.”

Equipment will be provided, and players should wear non-marking shoes. Those aged over 16 will also be required to show COVID-19 vaccination proof.

To book a spot, contact [email protected] or 0412 742 677.