Introducing the Tune Table Tennis C Squad

Our C Squad Group Coaching Sessions:

The C Squad has been introduced to strengthen the Tune Table Tennis development pathway and address a key challenge identified within the B Squad which is that players in the lower-tiers are progressing at a slower rate than those in the middle and/or top tiers.

To address this, the C Squad runs on Saturdays from 12.00p.m. to 2.00p.m. providing a more focused training environment for beginner and lower-tier players. The aim is to accelerate player growth through smaller groups, more hands-on coaching, and structured skill development.

Unlike the larger B Squad (which has around 34 players), the C Squad will be limited to about 20 players and supported by an expanded coaching team. This means more one-on-one guidance, increased attention, active feedback, and time on the table for every participant.

Because the C Squad has fewer players and more coaching support, each player receives more direct attention and playing time. To maintain the same overall coaching value, the rate per player would mathematically increase from $22 (for 34 players) to about $37.40 (for 20 players) — using the direct ratio:

$22 × (34 players ÷ 20 players) = $37.40

However, to keep things affordable while still fair, the C Squad rate will be set at $32 per player per session, which is well below the full value rate.

This reflects the same overall coaching value and quality maintained across all Tune squads, while recognising the smaller, higher-support environment. Regular members will also receive over 10% discount per term, making ongoing participation even more accessible.

The sole purpose of this new squad is to create an environment that better supports foundational skill development and confidence-building for those at the early stages of their table tennis journey.

Key Features:

  • Smaller group size: The number of players in this group is lowered by more than 35% to ensure greater individual attention from coaches.

  • Expanded coaching team: A New Zealand representative training partner will join the coaching team to provide active playing support and targeted feedback directly with each player.

  • Selective entry: Players will qualify through the first two weeks of the qualification tournament (11th and 18th October 2025). The group will include a combination of the lowest 20 players and/or selected promising juniors identified by the coaching team.

  • The first official C Squad session will commence on Saturday, 25th October 2025.

Expected Outcomes:

  1. Accelerated development for lower-level juniors through a smaller groups, bigger coaching team, and a more hands-on coaching environment.

  2. Increased consistency and progression within the B Squad for those at a higher level, enabling smoother transitions into our A Squad and ensuring all players continue to benefit and progress.

Ultimately, this structure will lift the overall standard of table tennis in East Auckland while ensuring every player — from beginner to representative — has the right environment to grow outside of a private coaching setting.