by Ian Marshall, Editor

Based in the East Midlands, an extensive programme is presently in place at the Grantham College in Lincolnshire where education and table tennis training most successfully combine.

Furthermore, during the summer months Alan Cooke and Nicola Deaton combine to form a Summer School, most comprehensive courses being the order of proceedings.

“The coaching incorporates all aspects needed to improve and enhance the play of all those attending. Irrespective of ability you will have the opportunity to improve technically, tactically, mentally and physically; all the ingredients needed to become a better table tennis player.” Nicola Deaton

Well established, the Butterfly Cooke and Deaton Summer School, now in its 19th year has gained a high reputation; starting as just a one week initiative, now three weeks are on offer.

“There is a diverse evening entertainment programme which serves to enhance the “family atmosphere“ which is experienced by all those who attend. The format of the summer school is designed on the table tennis experiences of the two directors.” Nicola Deaton

Notably, many players benefitted from the efforts of Alan Cooke and Nicola Deation; one such notable name is that of Liam Pitchford, the player who last year beat China’s Ma Long, the reigning Olympic and World champion, in addition to Germany’s Timo Boll and Dimitrij Ovtcharov, the two most recent winners of the Europe Top 16 Cup.

High level tuition is the order of proceedings; in addition to Alan Cooke and Nicola Deaton; Austrian international, Karina Kovacs will be present alongside England internationals Kelly Sibley and Matt Ware. Furthermore, adding to the knowledge bank, Paul Johnson, England youth squad coach, will be present alongside Marcus Gustafsson, the England women’s and youth head coach.

Places in the Butterfly Cooke and Deaton Summer School are available.

Brochure: Butterfly Cooke & Deaton Summer School