Table tennis comp to start next week

She said players of all ages and abilities attended.

“There were about 20 people there,” she said.

“That was more than I expected. I thought maybe about 10 because of the inquiries, but to have 20 there was great.”

James said she was also “really pleased” to see five women amongst the men and children on the first night.

“Quite often you get a lot of men and the women just don't turn up, but they're really enjoying it; they're loving it,” she said.

“It's a very social sport and they're all getting on well.

“Everyone had fun challenging the training robot and are looking forward to playing in a competition to commence soon.”

James said the club has acquired more equipment throughout this month, including new table tennis tables, barriers and nets, and are planning to commence a weekly pennant competition from May 31.

“Hopefully we'll have enough for about four teams of two people, and it will run for about seven weeks. We'll have some finals,” she said.

“We’re still hoping to attract more players as we progress to the next stage, but we have had expressions of interest from local schools and are looking forward to assisting them to run competitions and providing them with coaching as well.”

James said the club will continue to hold its free come and try night every Wednesday.

“Even once we start up our comp, there'll still be a spare table there for anyone who wants to come and have a try,” she said.

“Not everybody can commute every week but I've got a couple that have come from Mathoura, and one from Blighty.

“But we will run this (competition) with some fill-ins as well, so I've asked people to put down names either as a permanent weekly player or practice to fill-in.”

James said the more players the better and is hopeful that the club will keep growing as people continue to spread the word.

“All are welcome - experienced or beginner level,” she said.