As they draw to the end of their centenary year, the Isle of Wight is delighted to be performing well in the Senior British League.

In particular, the Island is pleased to include in their SBL team three of its younger players – a credit to their excellent coaching system. Experienced player, Paul Rainford, is pictured above with the Island’s best three youngsters, 21-year-old Hugh Idle (Isle of Wight men’s champion) and 17-year-olds Lewis Johnstone and Ryan Cates.

Both Lewis and Ryan reached the finals of the English Leagues tournament in June. All three players have come through the Island’s coaching system and are improving all the time.

This is the first time that the Island has entered this national league. Other Island players in the SBL this year are Alex Rorke, Scott Lawson and Tim Giles

Isle of Wight Table Tennis Association chairman, Alex Rorke said: “The SBL is the natural next step above local league play. We are pleased to enter this national competition and delighted to include (on merit) three of our young players. This undoubtedly helps to raise the profile of Isle of Wight table tennis, especially in our centenary year.”

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Isle of Wight Christmas Fun Tournament 2023

This informal event was at Smallbrook Centre, Isle of Wight on Friday, December 15.

30 players entered and Manfred Gelhard (right) was the winner with 84 points. Runner up (just one point behind) was Charlie Stapley (left).

The Association thanks Rob Smith (organiser) and Pat Thorley (for overseeing the catering).

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Isle of Wight Inter club tournament

This annual event on December 6 for the Island’s table tennis clubs could not have been much closer. Ryde Club were the winners, just two points ahead of St. Lawrence Club, and with Wootton Club in third place 15 points behind.

Isle of Wight Table Tennis vice chairman, Tim Giles, is seen here presenting the trophy to Ryde captain, Elaine Mills.