JTTA opens prep and primary schools table tennis league ahead of Mexico youth tourneys

The Jamaica Table Tennis Association has kicked off its Prep and Primary Schools League, setting the stage to pick young players who could wear national colours at under-11 and under-13 events in Mexico later this year.

Association president Ingrid Graham told Friday’s launch that the schools pathway remains the backbone of elite table tennis on the island. “Ninety to ninety-five per cent of the athletes we have at the national level come from this program,” she said. With the competition now under way, fixtures begin on 29 May, while singles play is slated for the first week of June as officials scout fresh faces for the Mexico-bound squads.

Graham said several institutions have already signed up and encouraged others to follow. Registration links have gone out across the school system; roughly ten schools have confirmed so far, with more expected. Entries were due to close at 4:00 p.m. on 22 May, though Graham said late interest would not be turned away. “Even if the deadline is past and you're interested to come on board, we will extend,” she added.

The Institute of Sports joined the launch to back grassroots development. The agency focuses on spotting talent early, stays active with younger athletes, and partners with the JTTA on competitions where it can lend technical support. Table tennis still draws less attention than some other disciplines locally, but specialists are in place to help grow the sport among children.

When the season ends, the prep and primary division winners will meet in a champion-of-champions playoff.