BARNSLEY Table Tennis Club’s commitment to engage the local community has gotten them a Proud of Barnsley nomination.
Joe Race, of Cudworth, is the club’s head of organisation, a volunteer role, for which he dedicates six days a week of his time.
His role entails club management, coaching, managing the chair of trustees and daily operations.
However, the extent of the 25-year-old’s duties can’t be summed up with a simple list of activities.
After taking over the club a few years ago, Joe’s passion to champion fitness and accessibility for local players has become evident.
All ages and abilities are welcome to the club, which strives to keep running costs to a minimum.
From their highly-competitive juniors team, to a thriving ‘Bat and Chat’, aimed at over 50s, there’s a place for everyone.
Low prices from £4 per session and just £120 per year for a membership mean that players are able to train without breaking the bank.
The club welcomes support from a legion of volunteers and the Hope House Church, whilst aiming to give back to the community.
Historically, the club has seasonally donated edible goods to the Trussell Trust’s foodbank, embodying the spirit of Christmas.
Furthermore, the club’s hard work in the community has had a profound impact, transforming lives.
Players have also been afforded the chance to compete, whilst being offered dedicated training and support.
In May, at the National School Championships, one of the club’s junior players, 15-year-old Sebastian Runcanu, showed off his skills.
Four of the club’s players also represent South Yorkshire in the Table Tennis County Championships.
The club goes to Denmark every year for a week to train in top camps with coaches and players from around the world.
Joe said: “It was a big surprise to be nominated.
“There’s a massive team of people who work hard every day.
“It means a lot.”
When asked why it is important to have a local sense of pride in sports, Joe added: “For me, it’s unity.
“It brings players and parents together.
“We have a very supportive group of parents who invest time in their children’s and the club’s development.
“It gives everyone a chance to access essential sporting opportunities.
“We have players that have been coming for a while that have friendships outside the club.”
