Yesterday (15th May, 2010), Tristran Swan was invited to help launch Manchester City Football Club’s ‘Premier League 4 Sport’ initiative at Eastlands (City of Manchester Stadium).

‘Premier League 4 Sport’ is a Government-backed scheme which, alongside Premier League football clubs, aims to expose school children to Olympic sports other than football. Under the initiative, each of the 20 Premier League football clubs link up with local community sports clubs in their area, which they work with in partnership. Four sports have been selected for the scheme, these include: badminton, judo, table tennis and volleyball.

On the day, Tristran worked with John Flowers, Katy Parker (ETTA North West Regional coach) and Andrea Holt (ETTA North West Regional Development Officer). Tristran introduced school children, who were free to roam and try the different sports on offer, to table tennis. This was done by demonstrating various shots, setting up exercises and playing fun games. The tables were always full and it was rare to see fewer than 8 school children per table!

To end the day, Manchester City Football Club players and dignitaries got the chance to sample a bit of table tennis action. Whilst Roque Santa Cruz tried to beat the robot and Moonbeam was up to her antics, Abdi Ibrahim and Greg Cunningham played a game of doubles with Tristran and John Flowers.

A fun day was had by all!