New to the national championships? Here's what you need to know about competing as a Presidents team member.

What is a Presidents team?

A Presidents team is an official pathway to the Australian national championships that includes two groups of players:

Players from larger states or territories who didn't secure selection in their state or territory's A, B, or C team

Players from smaller states or territories that don't have enough players to form complete teams

It's a legitimate competitive entry that lets all players represent their state or territory at the highest level of competition in Australia. Without Presidents teams, players from smaller states wouldn't have the opportunity to compete at nationals.

Being in a Presidents team means you receive almost the same support as state team players. Your state or territory handles billing, administration, pre-nationals training, and most communications. The main difference is the shirt you wear on court - Presidents team players wear a Presidents team shirt rather than a state shirt.

How do I get selected?

You don't apply for a Presidents team. Your state or territory's selection panel can nominate you if:

1. You meet all the eligibility requirements for the national championships
2. The panel believes your inclusion serves the best interests of the sport

You'll be notified if you've been nominated as part of the official selection announcement from your state or territory association.

Important

A Presidents team nomination is your entry to compete at nationals. Without team selection (A, B, C, or Presidents), you cannot compete in team or individual events at the national championships.

What events will I compete in?

Once you're nominated to a Presidents team, you'll compete in:

• Team events (representing your state or territory's Presidents team)
• Individual events (singles, gender doubles, mixed doubles)

The same competition structure, match format, and competition schedule apply as state A, B, and C teams. You'll be competing at the same nationals alongside all other state teams.

What do I need to know before nationals?

As a Presidents team member, you'll need to:

• Pay any state fees (typically team entry fee + team management fee)
• Arrange and pay for your own travel and accommodation
• Order the Presidents team shirt for team matches (Table Tennis Australia organises the shirts and information will be sent after selection is announced)
• Be punctual - players are expected at the venue at least 1 hour before their scheduled teams matches
• Support your teammates during their matches and stay at the venue for the full duration of team matches
• Comply with the Code of Conduct and any integrity policies set by your state or territory

You're encouraged to have a state team tracksuit, but it's not required. Your state or territory handles most other arrangements - contact them for specific information about training, deadlines, and support.

Important timeline

Presidents teams are selected after team entries close to Table Tennis Australia. Table Tennis Australia makes every effort to announce Presidents team selections quickly so that players have approximately 2 weeks to:

• Enter the individual events
• Order the Presidents team shirt
• Arrange and book flights and accommodation

Once you receive your Presidents team selection notification, act quickly on these items - deadlines for individual entries and travel arrangements move fast.

Who else will be on the team?

Presidents teams include players across a range of abilities and age groups from across Australia. Your team may include players from your own state or territory who didn't make A, B, or C teams, as well as players from smaller states or territories that don't have enough players to form complete state teams.

You'll compete alongside other ambitious players pushing for rankings points and national exposure. Your team will have a team captain/team coach appointed by Table Tennis Australia (working with your state or territory) to manage the team sheet and coordinate team events. Table Tennis Australia will also appoint a Presidents team manager to assist with coordination during the championships.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to compete in team events?

Yes - if you've been nominated for a Presidents team, competing in the team events is a key part of representing your state or territory at nationals.

Can I progress to a state team at a future nationals?

Absolutely. Selection is based on each year's performance and state team requirements. Strong performances at nationals and in approved tournaments throughout the year can help you work towards state A, B, or C team selection in future years.

What if I don't get nominated for a Presidents team?

Continue competing in approved tournaments to build your rating points and work towards state team selection. Contact your state or territory association about eligibility criteria and the selection process - understanding the requirements and competing in the right events will improve your chances next year.

Where can I find more details about Presidents teams?

Contact your state or territory table tennis association. They manage all Presidents team nominations and can answer specific questions about selection, fees, and support.

What does the Event Prospectus tell me?

The Event Prospectus is published by Table Tennis Australia about 4 months before nationals on the TTA website. It outlines all events, age categories, eligibility rules, competition format, and entry procedures. Review it carefully to understand what you'll be competing in.

Your selection is an achievement

Being nominated for a Presidents team means you're competing at Australia's elite table tennis competition. Focus on your preparation, compete with integrity, support your teammates, and give your best effort on the day.