Table Tennis Australia and Invictus Australia serves-up the perfect partnership
Table Tennis Australia (TTA) and Invictus Australia are proud to announce the signing of a national memorandum of understanding (MOU). This collaboration is an important step in strengthening pathways for veterans all around the country and of all abilities, to participate and get involved in the growing sport of table tennis.
It was announced at the recent Invictus Games held in the Hague, by none other than the Duke of Sussex himself, that Table Tennis will be added to the Invictus Games sporting card for the first time in Dusseldorf 2023. A wonderful way to build momentum for the sport within the Australian veteran community and perfect time to solidify this collaboration.
This new partnership between Invictus Australia and TTA was launched on Sunday 3rd April with our first ‘Come & Try Day’ held in Canberra. The event saw 30 members of the local Defence community pick up paddles at Tuggeranong Indoor Facility for a day of fun, food and frivolity – all in the name of sport and of course some healthy competition!
Jane Hiatt, Liberal member for Bean and Navy veteran attended the event and shared highlights of the day.
“Thanks so much Deb for organising a superb ‘Come & Try’ event last Sunday. I felt very welcome. The reception of the volunteers and coaches was superb. The facilities were also top-notch – thanks Table Tennis Australia! The highlights for me were meeting new people, sharing some banter, having a hit, chat and laugh around the table tennis table – I had a lot of fun. Thanks to everyone involved.”
“I was at Invictus Sydney 2018 as a volunteer with Team Rubicon (now called Disaster Relief Australia – DRA) – it is truly heart-warming to see that the Games have left such a wonderful legacy for Aussie veterans through your organisation, Invictus Australia so we can continue to engage and benefit from the amazing spirit Invictus inspires.”
table tennis an ace for everyone
Table tennis is an ace for everyone, of all ages and abilities. Invictus Australia, along with TTA is excited to bring the sport to more Australian defence communities throughout the year. A sentiment reiterated by CEO of Invictus Australia, Michael Hartung.
“Our partnership with Table Tennis Australia is one we’re particularly excited by, given the organisation’s national footprint and focus on engaging all members of the community from juniors all the way to seniors. We have shared missions around promoting the positive benefits of sport, whether it’s coaching, officiating or participating at an elite level, in schools or local communities.”
“These pathways ensure together we can create real opportunities for veterans and their families to stay active and connected through this vibrant, skilful and fun sport.” Michael said.
Sue Stevenson, General Manager of the National Para Program, mirrored Michael’s excitement and enthusiasm for the partnership and the incredible opportunities it brings to veterans and their families.
“Table Tennis Australia is excited to be partnering with Invictus Australia with our shared vision of providing pathways for veterans and their families, of all abilities, to participate and get involved in table tennis”.
“We kicked off our partnership with Invictus Australia with the first Come & Try Day which was a great success. This will be the first of many Come & Try Days that we have planned and we are looking forward to building on the momentum,” said Sue.
If you’re interested in picking up a paddle and giving table tennis a try, send an email to support@invictusgames.org for more information.
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