Essex Table Tennis Champions

A historic achievement was secured at the BATTS Centre in Harlow as Hamstel were crowned Essex Table Tennis Champions, becoming the first Hamstel team ever to win a county title. 

The tournament represented a significant step up in standard from the previous round, with the team facing seven challenging fixtures against some of the strongest schools in Essex. Hamstel rose to the occasion superbly, displaying skill, determination and composure throughout an outstanding day of table tennis. The team started in dominant fashion with consecutive 4-0 victories over St Nicholas, St Theresa's and Elmwood, before overcoming Theydon Bois 3-1 in another impressive performance.

The toughest match of the day came against eventual runners-up Widford Lodge. In a thrilling encounter, the match finished 2-2, meaning the result had to be decided on countback. With every point proving crucial, Hamstel edged the overall score 39-38, securing victory by the narrowest possible margin of just one point. Buoyed by that success, the team produced another commanding 4-0 win against West Horndon to set up a final match against local friends and rivals Alleyn Court. Fittingly, the title-deciding contest was another tense affair. Once again, the teams could not be separated on matches, but Hamstel held their nerve and claimed victory on countback to seal the championship. 

The players demonstrated exceptional resilience, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the day, rising to every challenge when it mattered most. Their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved county title and a place in the regional finals in Redbridge in January. Congratulations to all involved on a remarkable achievement and a memorable day in Hamstel sporting history.