Junior players from Ellenborough Table Tennis Club were part of the team representing the London Region at the National Championships played at Fenton Manor, Stoke, in May. Due to lack of funding, the lead up to the Championships had been difficult with no dedicated training or selection sessions possible. The standard of play was very high and the London team had to battle hard throughout.  

The opportunity was taken to introduce several new players this year with the London Region entire under-eleven categories being made up of players attending their first major competition. What started to become apparent during the day was the dramatic improvement made by all of the youngest players as they became used to the atmosphere and conditions and with the help of the coaches improved both technique and tactics. 

Among the Under 11’s to be congratulated was Ellenborough’s nine-year old Connor Neenan for some excellent performances during the day. Suchira Gallage also deserves credit for his efforts in the Under 13’s Boys category, which was of a particularly high standard. 

As in previous championships, the standard of play in the regions for the girls has been very high and this year was no exception. The difference between winning and losing was very marginal and unfortunately most of the close five-setters seemed to go to the opposition. Girls from Ellenborough included Sally Taylor, Under13, Megan Sparrey, Under 13 and Lindsey Armstrong, Under 15. 

Terry Wilson