The Baden-Württemberg senior team championships last weekend in Reutlingen are history (see extra report).
What’s next? In a good 6 weeks, the title holders from BaWü will be at the start of the German title fights. And they also take place in the “Ländle” – more precisely on June 3rd/4th in Schwenningen. Preparations are already in full swing. That’s why we spoke to Manfred Hirsch (Head of Department TG Schwenningen) about the German senior team championships.
TTBW: Mr. Hirsch, how are the preparations going for the big title fights in Schwenningen?
Manfred Hirsch: “We’ve been here for a few weeks, actually since the championships were awarded to us. We’re pretty tense, but at the same time we’re looking forward to the weekend. I have a good team with about 30 helpers around me, I couldn’t do it alone.”
TTBW: The Baden-Württemberg senior team championships took place in Reutlingen last weekend. They were also important as a qualification for your national championships. Did you follow it?
Manfred Hirsch: “Yes, of course! The BaWü champions in the age groups 40, 50, 60 and 70 are now known – and everyone has already confirmed for Schwenningen. Now we collect the participating clubs and include them in our program booklet. The DTTB is currently compiling the tender. We as TG Schwenningen are particularly happy that our 40s ladies won. This means we have our own team at the German Championships, which gives us even more motivation!”
TTBW: What advertising measures have you planned so that the hall is as full as possible?
Manfred Hirsch: “Since this week we have had an advertising flyer for these German championships, which also refers to the camaraderie evening on Saturday. The local press will publish a special report from the Germans and will be present at the tournament. And: On our club homepage there is an extra page about the title fights. All information can be found there, for example a hotel list for guests.”
TTBW: The association will report and advertise in all its media, on the homepage, in the newsletter and in social media (Facebook and Instagram) before and after the event!
Tell us something about your table tennis department at TG Schwenningen!
Manfred Hirsch: “TG Schwenningen currently has 9 active teams and is therefore one of the big clubs in the Oberer Neckar district. We were very successful this season and the enthusiasm is great. The downside is that we haven’t had a youth team since Corona. But we have new perspectives, because a new youth leader is also involved, who integrates the parents well. We also found trainers and helpers from the department. And we hope that these senior championships will also lead to new interest in table tennis in Schwenningen, also in the youth sector.”
TTBW: How did the application to hold these German Championships come about?
Manfred Hirsch: “In 2017 we already held the Württemberg senior individual championships. Last year (2022) we had our 75th anniversary, making us one of the oldest clubs in Württemberg. Then, on a whim, the idea arose that we should apply for a German championship. And: We were awarded the contract!”
TTBW: Is there another message for the participants and spectators for the 3./4. June?
Manfred Hirsch: “We have great conditions with two halls, each with 16-18 tables, which are connected by an aisle. The city supports us in the best possible way and also in other ways. When the weather is nice, there will be a beer truck in front of the hall with good service. Food and drink will be provided on both tournament days! And last but not least, the reference to the big camaraderie evening on Saturday.” With this in mind, on behalf of the TG Schwenningen, I wish everyone a safe journey and all participants the desired and hoped-for sporting success. We also hope for numerous spectators and many fans of table tennis!
Thank you for the interview, Mr. Hirsch!
Current information can be found under www.tgs-tischtennis.de
signed Thomas Walter, manager of sports development and public relations
