The first GTTA Junior Banded Tournament of the season produced some exciting matches between some of Guernsey Table Tennis’ brightest young hopes said match officials.
The highly competitive series of matches saw 15-year-old Micah Cohen emerge as the dominant player in Band 1, recording straight‑set victories over his closest rivals.
Cohen’s only minor setback was a three‑game contest against Xavier Ingrouille.
Albie Lihou secured second place with five wins, losing only to Cohen and to fifth‑placed Ingrouille in another tight match.
Despite the absence of three notable top junior players, GTTA officials said Band 1 reflected a well‑balanced field, with several competitors capable of challenging at the top.
In Band 2, there were clear signs of growing confidence, stroke-play and match awareness among the younger players said the GTTA.
Several players showed an increased ability to close out games under pressure during competitive matches.
Judah Nwako took the title with an excellent run, winning all his matches 2–0, while Morgan Finn finished as runner-up. The GTTA said this demonstrates Finn’s improvement, particularly in his three‑game win over Louis Ma, which highlighted growing consistency and confidence in key moments.
The Band 3 round robin provided an “excellent competitive environment” and, for many, a first opportunity to experience match play within a banded format.
Jack Dorey continued his fine Division 4 Senior League form as he recorded straight‑games victories over five opponents, dropping only one set to newcomer and eventual runner‑up Solomon Bearder.
Band 4 marked an encouraging beginning for a group of new players still early in their table tennis journey, said the GTTA.
The results reflected their improving consistency, and a growing understanding of match play as several matches went to three or more games.
Jack James claimed the Band 4 title, with Liam Wallen finishing second.
To recognise the qualities shown throughout the day, awards were also presented to players of the day: Katherine Hansen, Jake Webb and Mason Fairbrother, acknowledging not only performance but also sportsmanship and a strong understanding of the game.
For many participants, the event served as a promising introduction to banded tournament play with the next event being held on Saturday 14 March.