The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) is pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for female coaches through the WISH Programme (Women in Sport High Performance Pathway), an initiative supported by Olympic Solidarity. This prestigious programme is designed to increase the number of female high-performance coaches at major international events, including the World Championships and the Olympic Games.
As an International Federation, ITTF has the opportunity to nominate and endorse candidates for this programme and is now inviting Member Associations (MAs) to submit nominations for female coaches who meet the eligibility criteria.
This is a unique opportunity to support and advance female coaches in high-performance sport—we encourage all eligible candidates to apply through their MAs!
What is the WISH Programme?
The WISH Programme is a 21-month leadership pathway designed to develop female coaches’ skills and competencies at the highest level of international sport. The programme includes:
- Self-assessment & 360-degree feedback on leadership and sport-specific competencies
- Five-day residential sessions in the UK
- Eight online leadership sessions
- Eight leadership mentorship sessions
- Four sport-specific mentorship sessions
Who Can Apply?
Female coaches who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
- Aged 18 and over
- Currently involved or with the potential to be part of a national delegation for Regional or Continental Games, World Championships, Youth Olympic Games, or Olympic Games
- No history of anti-doping, safeguarding, competition manipulation, or ethics violations
- Able to commit fully to the entire programme
- Fluent in written and spoken English (minimum IELTS 6.5)
Scholarship & Support
The Olympic Solidarity scholarship will cover the tuition fees for selected candidates. Additionally, ITTF will cover the residential week (board and lodging) and mentorship aspects of the programme. The Member Association of the selected candidate will be responsible for travel costs to the UK for the residential session
How to Apply?
Member Associations wishing to nominate a female coach must submit applications here by 26 March 2025.
For more details, visit the 2025 WISH Programme website.