Spinneroos helping develop next generation of female players and coaches at Southern Table Tennis Club

Konan Kuboi hopes when the Girls Spinneroos program begins at her local club that she will not only build confidence in her coaching, but support and encourage young girls to love table tennis. 

Part of Table Tennis Australia’s My Gender My Strength initiative, Konan will be one of the youngest coaches helping deliver the Girls Spinneroos program at Southern Table Tennis Club (STTC).

The club in Morphett Vale, South Australia, has been hosting a junior program on Tuesday nights for many years but found that it was difficult to attract young female participants. 

“We had about four or five girls at one stage, and Konan was doing a lot of work with them but they’ve since dropped out,” explained Junior Development Officer Maurice Quinn, who’s been involved in coaching Konan. “We're keen to see more girls come through.”

Konan, who is just 16-years-old, got her start in table tennis during a public session at STTC and became instantly intrigued by the strategic aspect of the sport. 

She decided that she wanted to do more to help others love table tennis and encourage girls to play in a program where they can feel they fit in.  

“I came into coaching hoping that having some diversity in the coaches will encourage some girls to give table tennis a go. My favourite part about coaching young children is watching how fast they learn and grow, and seeing their big smiles when they achieve a new skill,” Konan said

“I believe that this program will allow me to assist girls in learning to love and enjoy the sport, whilst developing my coaching skills and confidence,” she added.

With the addition of the Girls Spinneroos program to STTC, Konan hopes that the diversity and inclusion she already sees at the club can continue to grow. 

“I also love the diversity that this sport offers, due to the fact that it isn’t as physically demanding compared to other sports. This means that those with physical and intellectual impairments are able to participate, and it is definitely a sport for all ages - I have seen 8-year-olds, who are barely as tall as the table, up to players over the age of 80!” she said.

“I hope to spread this diversity even more by encouraging young girls to join our strong community of table tennis players.”

The Girls Spinneroos program at STTC begins on Friday 12 November. Places are limited and are expected to fill up fast, so click here to find out more and secure your child’s place.