Gordano’s Head of PE, Emma Harradine, has recently returned from an incredible week in Croatia, where she joined the England men’s and women’s table tennis teams at the European Team Championships. The event brought together the very best players from across Europe, following on from the qualifying stages held in Sarajevo earlier this year.

Emma’s trip was part of the “She Coaches” programme, a national initiative supporting and developing the next generation of elite female coaches.

During the week, Emma had the opportunity to experience first-hand what goes on behind the scenes at a major international event. She spent time in the training hall supporting the England teams, observing how Europe’s top players prepare, train and adapt their tactics in competition. She also watched some of the world’s best teams in action, including Germany, France and Sweden.

Emma said “It was a fantastic experience, made even more special by the success of the England women’s team, who reached the last 16 and in doing so qualified for the World Team Championships, which will be held in London in May 2026.”

Her time in Croatia has provided fresh inspiration and insights that she is eager to use to motivate and develop young athletes within the PE department at Gordano School.