On Saturday, 7th September 2024, the Swerve Table Tennis Club in Middlesbrough played host to an inspiring and engaging Women and Girls Day, led by Clare Flynn, a North East Local Organising Group member and Women and Girls Ambassador. This fun and social event marked the fourth of its kind, following successful days previously held in Newcastle and Durham.

The initiative, aimed at bringing women and girls together in a supportive and active environment, continues to go from strength to strength. The event saw participants ranging from ages 7 to 82 come together to enjoy table tennis, meet new people, and be part of a growing community. The day was packed with interactive sessions, skill-building opportunities, and plenty of friendly competition, ensuring that players of all levels felt included and encouraged.

A key indicator of the initiative’s success is the rapidly expanding WhatsApp group dedicated to keeping participants connected and engaged. With nearly 50 members from the local area, the group serves as a hub for sharing experiences, arranging meetups, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among women and girls who are passionate about table tennis.

The Women and Girls Day at Swerve Table Tennis Club is yet another testament to the power of sport in bringing communities together. With such a positive trajectory, the future looks bright for this initiative as it continues to inspire and empower more women and girls to take part in table tennis and stay active.

For those interested in joining future events or becoming part of the growing community, stay connected via the WhatsApp group or follow updates from the North East Local Organising Group. The journey towards inclusivity and empowerment in sport is well underway, and there’s plenty more to come!