A wonderful spectacle of table tennis was the reward for those who watched the Young Players tournament today. The quality of the final groups belied the scant experience of the competitors and “oh boy” did they compete!
A full program of table tennis was on offer, with the group system ensuring that everyone was guaranteed plenty of games. There were winners and losers together with shouts of joy, (sometimes from the parents) tears and smiles in a tournament which buzzed with excitement all afternoon. The pace of the tournament was kept rolling along perfectly by John Fox, Colin French and helpers finishing on schedule at 6pm (the last competitor left the building at 6:01pm.
The final group was contested between Will Poulter, Sofia Pittortou, Finlay Peters and Harry Birch. Will came out on top in the all Waterside clash with Sofia achieving his main goal for the day (reversing the result from their previous encounter in the last YP tournament). In an all Winchester encounter Finlay Peters defeated club mate Harry Birch to set up a final with Will Poulter. Finlay recorded his second win at a Waterside YP tournament with a very good performance against Will. The quality of the final group was such that even at this level each match was affected by tactical play. The level of their play bodes well for all four players.
The event was kept fed and watered by the coffee bar – many thanks to Alex Pittortou for her help with that throughout the afternoon. Drinks, snacks and cookies were enjoyed by all 🙂
The medal winners were presented with their awards by Waterside TTC player Brian Hayes
Numbers are rising at these events and the quality of play is rising as well. The club were delighted to have strong support from our neighbours in Winchester for the event and from elsewhere around Southampton and New Forest – special mention to Highcilffe (St Mark Primary School). It was very pleasing to see representation from all the schools where we are running satellite clubs as well as the NFSSP Primary Table Tennis Academy. Well done everyone we hope you enjoyed your visit as much as we did.
John Fox the tournament referee coped with extra players on the day – adjusting the draw and groups to accommodate all – none more so than this surprise entry 🙂
more pics from the event…
For anyone interested in joining our next young players tournament, it will be taking place at Testwood on 6th February 2016. Entry forms will be posted on the website or contact John Fox on john@watersidettc.co.uk to express your interest.
