Aims and Objectives

At its core, the project is about personal and professional growth. It seeks to:

• Encourage Member Associations to identify and support promising female coaches. 

• Provide theoretical and practical coaching experience alongside leadership and management opportunities for selected coaches. 

• Build a global network of female coaches, fostering collaboration and community. 
• Create a lasting impact on women and girls in table tennis, promoting gender balance in the sport’s development.
  

Comprehensive Support for Coaches

Selected participants receive a range of benefits, ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive: 

• Full coverage of expenses related to group mentoring sessions. 

• Financial support for participation in designated training activities. 

• Assistance in organising a Women and Girls Training Camp, further expanding their reach and impact.
  

Pathway to Success: Implementation Stages

The program is structured to provide a well-rounded development experience through three key stages: 

1. Theoretical Learning: Candidates will engage with leading coaching experts, gaining insights into advanced training methodologies and strategies.
2. Practical Application: Hands-on experience is crucial. Participants will take part in elite training programs, such as the Hopes Program or Youth Training Camps, working alongside top coaches. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered.
3. Leadership and Management Training: Beyond technical skills, leadership is key. Participants will play a role in organising a Women and Girls Training Camp of at least three days, in addition to providing education and mentorship to other female coaches who participates along with their athletes.

Eligible Candidates

To qualify, candidates must be a part-time or full-time coach or a retired elite athlete with coaching experience. They should hold a national coaching qualification or an ITTF coaching certification, along with at least two years of coaching experience at the regional, continental, or international level. An endorsement from their Member Association is required as well as proficiency in English for training and networking. 

Coaches with experience in athlete development programs such as the Hopes Program, Youth or Senior Training Camps, or WFiM Scholarships will be given preference. 

High-performing candidates may be considered for future development roles or additional opportunities within ITTF Sports Development beyond 2025. 

Last year, selected female coaches were supported to attend the Youth Summit in Sweden during the 2024 ITTF World Youth Table Tennis Championships and ITTF World ESports Championships, and a number of these coaches are already engaged in conducting ITTF Coaching Courses and Training Camps.  

By investing in female coaches through the “My Gender. My Strength.” project, ITTF Sports Development is shaping a future where women are not only coaches but also leaders and mentors in the sport. Through education, experience, and community, this initiative is building a stronger, more inclusive table tennis world. 

We look forward to the continued success of this project. Last year, ITTF received applications from 50 Member Associations, and 20 female coaches were selected to benefit from the program. With each passing year, ITTF strives to expand its reach and impact, ensuring that women have the opportunity to grow and lead in table tennis. 

Each Member Association is invited to apply with one female coach to benefit from the project and submit their application through the following link: 2025 FORM 

The deadline to submit the applications is 31st March 2025.