Brighton Table Tennis Club Blends Elite Training with Community Outreach

The club churns out Olympians while providing a warm, inclusive space for all ages and abilities.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:33pm

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Brighton Table Tennis Club (BTTC) has found a unique formula for success, producing world-class athletes while also serving as a vibrant community hub. Founded in 2007, the club has already yielded Paralympic gold medalists and national champions, but its real pride lies in the inclusive, supportive atmosphere it fosters for players of all levels.

Why it matters

BTTC's model demonstrates that sports organizations can cultivate elite talent while also prioritizing accessibility, community engagement, and a joyful, welcoming environment. This balanced approach sets the club apart and could serve as an example for other sports to follow.

The details

BTTC operates bustling centers in Kemp Town and Moulsecoomb, offering table tennis sessions throughout the day and evening for all ages and abilities. Alongside expert coaching to develop future Olympians, the club also runs programs for children, seniors, and those with additional needs or disabilities, blending high-level training with an inclusive, fun atmosphere.

  • BTTC was founded in 2007.
  • The club has won the UK's top club division two years in a row.

The players

Tim Holtam

One of the founders of Brighton Table Tennis Club.

Harry McCarney

One of the founders of Brighton Table Tennis Club.

Wen Wei Xu

One of the founders of Brighton Table Tennis Club.

Will Bayley

A Paralympic gold medalist who trained at BTTC.

Bly Twomey

A Paris Paralympic breakout star who trained at BTTC.

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What they’re saying

“This club is important for those who can't afford to play other sports. This is like their second home and these kids are here as soon as school finishes. You can see them playing table tennis and they love it.”

— Amila Thilakarathna, Coach at BTTC's Moulsecoomb center

“The atmosphere and environment that the club creates is unlike any other club in the world. I love the culture here. It's very friendly, the kids are great and I like to be able to help them.”

— Amila Thilakarathna, Coach at BTTC's Moulsecoomb center

“I'm a performance-based coach. I want kids to do well, of course. But I also want them to change their lives through the sport. That's my main philosophy as a coach. I'm just trying to help them maximise their potential.”

— Amila Thilakarathna, Coach at BTTC's Moulsecoomb center

“Most of the time I'm not really doing much and coming here has given me something to do. It's just my passion to play table tennis. I'm going to aim for the Olympics and see where we go.”

— Junior player

“I really want to get better and so I come here. It's to do with friendship as well but I come here to train really hard so hopefully I can play well when I'm older.”

— Junior player

What’s next

BTTC plans to continue expanding its community outreach programs and training initiatives to support athletes of all levels, with the goal of producing more Olympians and Paralympians while maintaining its inclusive, welcoming environment.

The takeaway

Brighton Table Tennis Club has found a winning formula by seamlessly blending elite-level training and coaching with a strong commitment to community engagement and accessibility. This model could serve as an inspiration for other sports organizations looking to nurture top talent while also creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere that benefits players of all backgrounds and abilities.