KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaica Table Tennis Association (JTTA) on Monday, May 15, successfully hosted its 2026 Preparatory and Primary School League at the National Arena, bringing together players, coaches, administrators, sponsors, and supporters to celebrate the achievements of Jamaica’s young table tennis athletes and officially launch the new season.

The event highlighted the continued development of grassroots table tennis in Jamaica and recognised the schools, coaches, and athletes who distinguished themselves during the previous season.

The programme was hosted by Simon Tomlinson, while opening prayers were delivered by Charles Newsam. The ceremony also featured a comprehensive address by JTTA President from Ingrid Graham, who provided a detailed reflection on the previous season and outlined the strategic direction for strengthening school participation, enhancing competitive standards, and deepening collaboration across key development partners.

The league will feature participation from a wide range of preparatory and primary schools across Jamaica, reflecting strong and growing interest in structured competition at the grassroots level.

Major awards presented during the event included:

Champion of Champions Male—Whitfield Town Primary
Champion of Champions Female— Hillel
Top Coach Peter Daley—Hillel

Special presentations were also made to the Unoiversity of Technology’s Table Tennis Club and the University of the West Indies’ Taylor Hall Table Tennis Club for their contribution to the development of the sport.

JTTA also acknowledged the invaluable support of its sponsors and development partners whose contributions continue to strengthen youth table tennis across Jamaica. Sponsors recognised included the Jamaica Olympic Association, STAG, Sports Development Foundation, Independence Park Limited, AUBYN Sports Management, Western Sports, International Table Tennis Federation Development (ITTFD), American Jewellery Company Ltd., and Optical Solutions International.

Graham lauded the initiative.

“The Preparatory and Primary School League continues to stand as one of the most important pillars of our national development structure. It represents not only competition, but a sustained investment in discipline, opportunity, and the long-term growth of table tennis in Jamaica,” said the JTTA President.

She added that, “the progress achieved reflects strong collaboration between schools, coaches, and our valued partners, and we remain committed to expanding access and raising standards at every level”.

Aubyn Henry, chief strategy and development officer at the association shared similar sentiments, noting that the ceremony was reminiscent of the growing structure of the association.

“This programme is rooted in intentional opportunity creation, where table tennis becomes a structured vehicle for discipline, education, and personal development. By aligning schools, coaches, and partners within a unified framework, we are ensuring that young athletes are not only given access to competition, but are also supported in a way that nurtures character, focus, and long-term potential. The aim is to build individuals who can carry the lessons learned here into every aspect of their lives with confidence and purpose,” Henry said.

The JTTA reaffirmed its commitment to youth development through structured programmes and emphasised the importance of the league as a foundational platform for identifying and nurturing emerging talent across Jamaica.

With strong backing from corporate Jamaica and sporting institutions, the 2026 Preparatory and Primary School League is expected to continue providing opportunities for young athletes and future olympians.