BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Honiara’s Table Tennis Association (HTTA) has resumed training with renewed momentum and is now preparing for a major inter-club competition during the Easter break, according to Program Coordinator for Smash Down Barriers Disability Tennis and Honiara Table Tennis, President Kevin Olea.
Olea said the association made a positive start to the year after the launch of its 2026 activities on January 16, despite disruptions caused by persistent wet weather.
“We started quite good, but we regretted the bad weather sessions – the wet and rainy weather which spoiled us until we resumed late last week and this week,” he said.
He explained that regular technical training sessions are now underway, scheduled for Thursdays from 3pm to 4pm and Saturdays from 9am to 11am, with all sessions currently offered free of charge to schools, communities, churches, youth groups and disability centers.
“These sessions are free for program-delivering partners such as schools, communities, special interest groups such as churches, youth groups and disability centers”, Olea said.
Training is delivered across four categories—beginners, developing players, rehabilitation participants with disabilities, and advanced players—with coaches rotating to support each group.
Looking ahead, Olea confirmed the long-awaited return of the Honiara inter-club competition this April during the Easter long weekend, bringing together about 14 clubs.
“The last one we held was way back in 2019 and, due to COVID-19, it stopped until now when we resume back”, he said.
Friendly matches for clubs and students are expected to begin next month as part of preparations for the tournament.
Olea also acknowledges the support of Honiara City Council for providing training space, along with assistance from the Australian Government through local partners to support table tennis development in Honiara.
Meanwhile, the association’s Annual General Meeting is scheduled for March 31, with further details to be announced.
While current community sessions remain free, Olea noted that intensive training programs conducted over eight to ten sessions will carry a fee.
“Our training fees are $120 for six sessions and this covers six basic strokes of table tennis”, he said, adding that another intensive program costing $100 is planned for the June school holidays.
Saturday’s resumed session recorded a strong turnout, with Olea encouraging continued participation.
“Come back again on Thursday next week and Saturday again… all sessions free at the Multi-purpose Hall”, he said.
Interested youths, children or individuals wishing to join the Honiara Table Tennis Association can contact – 7201780 for further information.
Photo: Supplied
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