A Day of Skill, Sportsmanship, and Giving Back

On Sunday the 24th of November 2024, Alpha Table Tennis Klabb hosted its highly anticipated 16th Open Tournament. This event, not only showcased the table tennis talent of all participants, but also the spirit of community and philanthropy. This tournament is part of the Malta Table Tennis Skills project funded by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV) through the VOPS project fund. Throughout the day, players of all ages and skill levels came together in an exciting competition.

Thanks to the VOPS funding, the tournament was entirely free of charge for all participants. This was vital to making the event accessible to everyone interested in competing. The focus on inclusivity and skill development made this tournament a standout in the club’s sports calendar.

16th Open Winners in each category

The competition was divided into three categories. Each category offering intense matches and tight contests. Here’s a look at the top performers in each category:

• Category 1:
  • Winner: Gabriele BiancoRunner-up: Aaron Abela
• Category 2:
  • Winner: Daniel ParascandaloRunner-up: Emil Karapetyan
• Category 3:
  • Winner: Selina JiangRunner-up: David Read

A Tournament with a Cause

While the competition was fierce, the day was also a reminder of the importance of giving back to the community. As part of the tournament, donations were collected in aid of the Step Up For Parkinson’s voluntary organization. This entity is dedicated to supporting individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Thanks to the generosity of participants and spectators, an impressive €405 was raised, demonstrating the power of sports to make a positive impact beyond the game.

The support from the VOPS project fund allowed the event to be organized without any entry fees. This ensuring that everyone could take part regardless of their financial situation. This focus on inclusivity not only made the tournament accessible but also highlighted the importance of volunteering and supporting other local charities.

Looking Ahead

The 16th Open Tournament at Alpha Table Tennis Klabb was a resounding success, with fierce competition, remarkable sportsmanship, and a strong sense of community. It was a testament to the thriving table tennis scene at the club and the positive influence of projects like Malta Table Tennis Skills. The event was not just about competition—it was about fostering a love for the sport, developing skills, and supporting a good cause.

As the participants left with smiles and the winners with their trophies, the spirit of the day was clear: through sport, we can build stronger communities, raise awareness for important causes, and create lasting memories.

A big thank you goes out to the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector and the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector. Appreciation also to the volunteers and all the participants for making this event possible. We look forward to the next! Contact us to be informed about our upcoming competitions.