Tip-Top Paddlers On Point

Table Tennis: STTA-Toa Payoh West-Thomson CSN Youth Championships

Our paddlers weren’t just present at the STTA Toa Payoh West Thomson CSN Youth Table Tennis Championships. From 11 to 15 June 2025, they turned up the heat, brought the spin and smashed their way to the podium with flair.

In the U15 Boys’ Singles, Tristen Yee Rui Bing bounced back from a disappointing outing in the 7th Junior and Hopes Invitational. With his blend of precision, power and poise, he swept through the competition and claimed the top prize. Hot on his heels was Benjamin Lau Yi Yuan, who battled smartly to secure 2nd place. Benaiah Seah Shih Luck rounded off the top three with a strong showing that earned him a joint 3rd place finish.

“This tournament came right after the 7th Junior and Hopes Invitational, so it was back-to-back. I was a bit disappointed with my performance at Hopes and did some serious reflecting. I realised there were areas I had to work on, and my form wasn’t great. So, I focused on improving those parts and avoiding the mistakes I made earlier.

Benaiah and Benjamin were both strong and in good form, so I focused on my own play, adjusted my strategies and stayed mindful. This tournament taught me the importance of resilience. I tried not to let things like form, draws or my opponents affect me. I believe in every match, beyond skills and strategy, resilience matters just as much,” shared Tristen.

Over on the U15 Girls’ side, Chevelle See was cool, composed and unstoppable. She served up sharp shots and clever plays to dominate the category and take home the gold.

Chevelle said, "The U15 category was tough, with strong opponents aged 14 or 15 playing at a high level. What helped me stand out was staying composed under pressure. Whether I was trailing or leading, I focused on playing each point with purpose, minimise mistakes, stay patient and keep my concentration. I respected every opponent but didn’t let fear or doubt take over. Instead of just comparing myself to others, I visualised matches against even stronger players. That mindset pushed me to raise my game.

The biggest lesson I took away was the importance of a winning mentality. From the moment I stepped into the hall, I chose to trust my training and believe in myself. Confidence isn’t just about results. It comes from preparation, focus and the resilience to perform under pressure. This experience has inspired me to keep growing, as both an athlete and a person."

In the U19 Boys’ Singles, Jayden Tan Kai Yang delivered an inspiring performance. Facing stiff competition, he held his ground and fought his way to the top, finishing ahead of a determined Koh Junhao, who took silver. Also, Jaryl Wong Yi Zhong earned his place on the winners’ podium with a joint 3rd place finish.

Rhiannon Tey Yu Qian joined the medal party with a joint 3rd in the U19 Girls’ Singles, capping off a strong campaign by our paddlers across all age groups.

Massive paddles-up to all our medallists for their grit, focus and fire. Whether they were out-rallying their opponents or spinning their way out of tight corners, our student-athletes showed they have got spirit and game.