Since Table Tennis's first introduction at the 1987 Special Olympics World Games, where 12 athletes competed in the Table Tennis competition, participation in the sport has grown tremendously. In 1995, over 170 athletes competed in Table Tennis at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in New Haven Connecticut. Today, approximately 50 countries worldwide now have programs in Special Olympics Table Tennis. Table Tennis is currently one of seven nationally popular sports in Special Olympics.  Table Tennis is a fast-paced sport which requires excellent hand eye coordination. There are elements of power and finesse which athletes must possess in order to play Table Tennis. A "kill" can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour, while a classic spin shot may send the ball spinning at thousands of revolutions per minute.

Events

    Special Olympics offers the following official events.
  • Singles
     Doubles (Mixed, Unified Sports Doubles & Unified Sports Mixed Doubles)
  • Wheelchair Competition
  • Individual Skills Contest (Target Serve, Racket Bounce, Return Shot)