Amplifying Women’s Voices: Chloe Ireland’s Inspiring Podcast
In a remarkable initiative to spotlight women’s experiences in table tennis, Chloe Ireland, an International Umpire and Women & Girls Ambassador, has launched a new podcast series dedicated to the female perspective in our sport.
The inaugural episode features Sally Hughes, Director of Table Tennis England, who shares her journey and efforts to increase female participation in table tennis.
This podcast series not only provides valuable insights and coaching tips but also serves as a platform to inspire and engage more women and girls in the sport. By sharing stories of prominent female figures in table tennis, Chloe is fostering a sense of community and encouraging broader participation.
Engaging the Wider Community in Volunteer Recruitment
Chloe’s podcast exemplifies how innovative approaches can engage the wider community. Clubs can adopt similar strategies by:
- Hosting Community Events: Organize open days or workshops to attract individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Collaborating with Local Organizations: Partner with schools, community centers, and local businesses to reach potential volunteers.
- Utilizing Social Media: Share stories and testimonials of current volunteers to showcase the rewarding experience of contributing to the club.
By embracing these approaches, clubs can tap into a broader volunteer base, enriching the community and ensuring the sport’s growth and inclusivity.
Celebrating Volunteers and Reimagining How We Recruit Them
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of being involved in Table Tennis England’s CloudAthlete Pride of Table Tennis Awards—a celebration of the incredible people who give their time, passion, and energy to our sport. These awards shine a spotlight on those who are the heartbeat of our table tennis community: the volunteers.
From unsung heroes in local clubs to those pioneering new community projects, each winner had a unique story—but all shared one thing in common: they make table tennis possible.
Rethinking Volunteer Recruitment
Being part of the awards also gave me a chance to reflect on how we recruit, retain, and celebrate volunteers across the sport. In many clubs, volunteer numbers are declining—not due to a lack of interest, but often due to a lack of visibility and accessibility.
So how can we reimagine the way we attract volunteers?
From the Community, For the Community
The key lies in looking beyond the club walls. Volunteers don’t always have to come from inside the sport—they can come from the wider community:
- Parents and carers of junior players are often keen to help but need clear, accessible pathways into volunteering. Simple, well-communicated micro-volunteering roles (e.g., helping with a tuck shop, setting up tables, or managing social media) are great entry points.
- Students and young people bring energy and fresh ideas. Partnering with local colleges or universities for sport development, media, or coaching placements can help clubs support their needs while gaining valuable help in return.
- Retirees and professionals in the local community may be looking for meaningful ways to give back. Could your club offer flexible roles that use their skills—from accounting to event planning?
- Local community groups, charities, and organisations can also be powerful partners. The Mencap and Ping in the Community projects are perfect examples of how inclusive collaboration can benefit everyone involved.
Creating a Culture of Recognition
Initiatives like the Pride of Table Tennis Awards remind us just how vital recognition is. Whether it’s a national award or a simple “thank you” on a club night, building a culture of appreciation is one of the best ways to keep volunteers engaged and feeling valued.
Final Thoughts
Being involved in this year’s awards was not only an honour—it was a reminder of what’s possible when we truly celebrate and invest in our people. If clubs can think creatively about where volunteers might come from, and ensure that recognition and development are central to the journey, we’ll not only grow our workforce—we’ll grow our game.
Let’s keep the pride in volunteering alive