Junior Program

Welcome to the TTTA Junior Program! We’re dedicated to developing young table tennis players in a fun, supportive environment.

Programs for All Ages

Table Tots (Ages 4-7)

Our introduction program for our youngest players!

When: Saturdays 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Format: Fun, games-based learning Focus: Basic hand-eye coordination, movement, and introduction to table tennis

Table Tots is all about having fun while learning the basics. We use modified equipment and games to make learning engaging for young children.

Junior Training (Ages 8-17)

Comprehensive training programs for developing players.

Schedule:

  • Monday: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Pricing: Buy-hours packages available (see below)

Junior Fixtures

Regular competition opportunities for junior players.

When: Monday 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Format: Organized matches against other juniors Benefits: Develop match skills, experience competition, track improvement


Buy-Hours Training System

Our flexible training system allows juniors to purchase training hours and use them when convenient.

How It Works

  1. Purchase a package of training hours
  2. Attend any junior training session
  3. Hours are deducted based on attendance
  4. Use your hours at your own pace

Benefits

  • Flexibility: Attend sessions that fit your schedule
  • Value: Cost-effective for regular players
  • Commitment: Encourages consistent training

Download our Buy-Hours information PDF for complete details and pricing.


Development Pathway

We support juniors at every stage of their table tennis journey:

Beginner Level

Focus: Fundamentals, fun, confidence building Outcomes:

  • Learn basic strokes (forehand, backhand)
  • Understand scoring and basic rules
  • Develop love for the game
  • Make friends in a supportive environment

Intermediate Level

Focus: Technical development, match play, fitness Outcomes:

  • Refine stroke technique
  • Develop tactical awareness
  • Compete in local tournaments
  • Improve consistency and control

Advanced Level

Focus: Competition preparation, high-performance training Outcomes:

  • Compete at regional and state levels
  • Advanced tactical training
  • Physical conditioning
  • Mental skills development
  • Pathway to representative selection

Elite/Representative

For our most talented juniors:

  • Queensland State Championships representation
  • Training with experienced coaches and former champions
  • Access to Club Comp and Club Plus memberships
  • Opportunities for national-level competition

Coaching Team

Our junior coaches include current and former champions with extensive experience in developing young players.

Head Coach: Alan Walsh Phone: 0421 042 687 Email: coach@townsvilletabletennis.org.au


School Programs

School Holiday Clinics

We run special programs during school holidays:

  • Multi-day intensive training
  • Fun tournaments
  • Skill development workshops
  • Social activities

Check our Events page for upcoming holiday programs.

Schools Table Tennis Challenge

Our annual schools competition brings together students from across Townsville to compete and celebrate table tennis.

School Visits

We can bring table tennis to your school! Contact us to discuss:

  • Demonstration sessions
  • Coaching clinics
  • Equipment loan programs
  • Competition organization

Junior Membership Options

Cub Play – Townsville Member

Best for: Juniors wanting to compete locally Includes:

  • Access to all junior training sessions
  • Local competition entry
  • Junior tournament discounts

Club Comp Member

Best for: Representative-level junior athletes Includes:

  • All Townsville Member benefits
  • Regional competition entry
  • Advanced coaching opportunities

Club Plus Member

Best for: National-level junior players Includes:

  • All Club Comp benefits
  • National competition support
  • Elite coaching and development

Register for membership →


Parent Information

What to Bring

  • Clothing: Comfortable athletic wear
  • Shoes: Non-marking sports shoes (essential)
  • Equipment: Bat if you have one (we have bats available)
  • Hydration: Water bottle
  • Extras: Towel, healthy snack

Parent Participation

Parents are welcome to:

  • Watch training sessions
  • Support at tournaments
  • Volunteer at events
  • Join the parent support group

Communication

We keep parents informed through:

  • Email updates
  • Facebook page
  • RevSport portal notifications
  • Notice board at the hall

Safety & Well-Being

  • All coaches work with children safely and hold required certifications
  • Child safety is our top priority
  • Parents must remain at venue or ensure appropriate supervision
  • We maintain a safe, inclusive environment for all juniors

Getting Started

Step 1: Contact Us

Reach out to discuss your child’s experience level and goals:

Step 2: Try a Session

Bring your child to a junior training session to try it out. First session is free!

Step 3: Register

Once you’re ready to commit, register through our online portal.

Step 4: Start Training!

Begin your table tennis journey with TTTA.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does my child need their own bat? A: Not to start - we have equipment available. As they progress, we recommend purchasing a bat suited to their level.

Q: How often should my child train? A: We recommend 2-3 sessions per week for best development. Our buy-hours system makes this flexible.

Q: Can my child compete even if they’re a beginner? A: Yes! We have non-rated events perfect for beginners to gain experience.

Q: What if my child has never played before? A: That’s fine! Many of our juniors start with no experience. Our coaches are skilled at working with beginners.


Ready to Join?

Give your child the gift of table tennis - a sport for life!

Contact: Alan Walsh - 0421 042 687 Email: coach@townsvilletabletennis.org.au Register: RevSport Portal