Reflection on Inclusivity in Sports: Looking Back at the Round Table Discussion of World Table Tennis Day 2024

It’s just 2 months to go until World Table Tennis Day (WTTD) 2025! Continuing the second year of championing the spirit of Diversity and Inclusion, we are excited to release the recording of the Diversity and Inclusion Round Table Discussion! Held during the WTTD 2024 celebration in Leipzig, this session brought together key stakeholders and decision-makers from international to local levels to discuss the significance of Diversity and Inclusion in table tennis and sports as a whole. It also provided a platform for deeper reflection on the core values of Diversity and Inclusion and allowed different voices and perspectives to contribute to a more inclusive sport community. Today, we invite you to watch the recording of this insightful session, reflect on the discussions, and gain inspiration for your WTTD event!

This round table featured notable figures from global, continental, national, and municipal levels of table tennis and sport for development community, including:

  • Petra Sörling, President of ITTF and ITTF Foundation
  • Andreas Hain, then President of the German Table Tennis Federation
  • Game Mothibi, Senior Manager of TAFISA
  • Jens Elsner, then Head of Programme (Sport for Development) of GIZ
  • Manuela Andrich, Head of Department and Commissioner for Migration and Integration of City of Leipzig
  • Pedro Moura, President of the European Table Tennis Union
  • Zoran Primorac, table tennis legend and President of the Croatian Table Tennis Association
  • Leandro Olvech, Director of ITTF Foundation

By convening these influential voices, the discussion sparked reflections, shared experiences, and examined both the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving true equality in sports.

Reflections towards an Inclusive Future for Table Tennis

The discussion began with session contributors sharing their personal encounters and perspectives on Diversity and Inclusion in sports. These reflections set the stage for an engaging conversation on how to create a more inclusive table tennis community.

One of the key topics was the role of mixed-gender events in promoting gender equality. Session contributors emphasised how mixed competitions enhance audience engagement while fostering equal opportunities for all genders. The proven success of mixed events in table tennis underscores the need for more tournaments that embrace diversity in player representation.

Another important point discussed was the socio-economic barriers that hinder participation in sports. While table tennis is relatively affordable compared to many other sports, financial constraints still limit access for some communities. Session contributors stressed the need for initiatives targeting underprivileged groups to ensure that financial limitations do not prevent participation in table tennis.

Creating an inclusive environment was a recurring theme throughout the discussion. Session contributors highlighted clubs that successfully foster diversity by welcoming players from different backgrounds, including refugees and individuals with disabilities. However, the significance of language barriers and communication in making newcomers feel comfortable was also discussed. For example, refugees often have more pressing priorities than joining a table tennis club, and the added challenge of language can make it even harder to create a truly welcoming environment. To address this, recommendations were made for clubs and grassroots organisations to adopt more inclusive practices.

The presence of female leaders in sport organisations was another focus point. Session contributors agreed that representation at leadership levels plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation and encouraging greater female participation in table tennis. While progress has been made, there remains a long road ahead in achieving true gender equality in sport leadership.

The Road Ahead: From Dialogue to Action

As the session concluded, session contributors reflected on both the progress achieved and the challenges that lie ahead. While there is optimism about the future of Diversity and Inclusion in sports, sustained and holistic efforts are needed to ensure that everyone—regardless of gender identity, background, or ability—has the opportunity to participate, excel, and lead in table tennis.

The round table discussion on World Table Tennis Day 2024 was just the beginning. We see this as a seed planted for future movements, sparking conversations in different parts of the world, across various sports, and involving diverse communities. The goal is to establish more platforms where voices from different backgrounds can come together having a seat at the table to shape a more inclusive sporting landscape.

Watch the full recording and join the movement for a more inclusive world of sports! Additionally, don’t forget to register your WTTD 2025 event and be part of this global celebration on 23 April!

#WorldTableTennisDay #TTBelongsToYou #TTCanChangeLives #DiversityAndInclusion

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