Firstly at a senior level a number of very successful events continued to be held throughout the season. Most notably the Ulster Open and Bangor Open, the latter of course attracting a number of overseas players (including China!). Congratulations are extended to Vincent O’Regan and his Bangor League colleagues who continue to provide excellent support to table tennis through this tournament and of course the league and coaching. The Branch also extends thanks to the organisers of the important Class 2 and 3 events and a special mention goes to the Fermanagh League who resurrected their Open event in this Millennium year. Continuing to attract entries (especially female players) to events remains a high priority as does ensuring high standards of playing conditions and facilities. The Branch is hoping this year to recommend some changes to the tournament structure to help address these issues. Ideas from people on this front would be very welcome.

The highlight of the year at senior level was the participation of the Northern Ireland team in the Commonwealth Championships in Singapore. An 8th finish for the women and 12th for the men made the trip extremely worthwhile. In the Mixed Doubles, Andrew Dennison and Andrea Glover finished in 5th place, an excellent result. Many people supported the teams participation in the games with financial donations and our thanks are extended to everyone who helped. Andrea Glover, Michelle McGreevey, Daryl Strong and Andrew Dennison also achieved success at Irish International Level, while an Ulster Ladies team enjoyed participating in the British League, (a highlight for me) finishing top of Division One. Ulster hosted the Interpros this year as well, and while gold eluded us, the event was very successful, and thanks are extended to all who assisted.

Junior table tennis relies particularly on the voluntary support of many individuals in the form of coaches, organisers and taxi drivers etc. 1999/2000 was another season with many junior events and the Branch must extend thanks to all those who have played their part in junior table tennis throughout the season. Credit in particular goes to Gilbert Graham, Alan, Malcolm Guy, Herbie Ross and all those involved in the Youth Pilot Scheme. Veterans table tennis continues to be an important part of our sport and thanks are extended to these who have regularly supported events throughout the year. Ulster representation on the Irish Vets side and the participation of Anahilt in the British Vets League also importantly highlights the opportunities for the older generation in our sport.

There are a lot of people who give up much time and effort on behalf of table tennis. As Branch secretary I would like to thank my fellow office bearers Alex Parke, Stewart Reilly, Ken Strong, I would also like to thank of course the real Branch secretary (the one who does all the work), Jing Yi. Jing Yi is a real asset to Ulster Table Tennis as a player, coach and administrator, and I would like to thank her for all her help during the year.

Finally I would like to thank our president Eddie, who despite recent health problems, continues to provide invaluable support to our game. Also the Branch remains indebted to the Sports council for their continued support throughout the year.

This report is my last as I step down as secretary and I would like to wish my successor best wishes for the coming season.