I started playing table tennis at the age of 13 at the News of the World Coaching Scheme in Butlin’s Holiday Camp, Skegness. By the time I was 15 I was England No. 4 with massive help from my parents and lots of coaching/training and hard work.
Unfortunately I was never selected for my country as the selection committee were very southern orientated and I decided to stop playing at the age of 18.
My first marriage dissolved in 1986 and I decided to start playing again when I was 32. I eventually settled at Bramley Ebenezer TTC and with lots of training started to reach my potential again. I reached England No 2 in the Veterans ranking list at the age of 41.
My claim to fame was winning a European Gold in the Over 50’s doubles in Courmeyer, Italy with Diane Pearce from Kent in 2003. I have also achieved two European Bronze medals in 2013 in Germany and recently a World Championship Bronze medal in Las Vegas USA. I achieved my lifetime ambition and represented my country as a veteran at the age of 40 and have played many times since.
I retired from my main job at the age of 50 and decided to utilise my coaching qualifications. I started some Active Life sessions for people over 50 and created an Active Life Club which is free to join and we have periodic social functions.
I offer coaching for all ages and I am mainly based at Armley Leisure Centre three days a week and you will find information regarding where to play on my coaching/practice sessions page.
My other coaching work is:
The North West Regional Development Centre based at Horsforth School
and attendance is by invitation only so if you would like your child to attend this session please give me a call on 0113 2574368. I also coach at Seven Hills Primary School.
