This Saturday, the Rockhampton and Bundaberg Table Tennis Associations will renew their annual intercity rivalry in Bundaberg. Alongside preparing their teams for the event, organisers are tasked with selecting a name for a new shield, which will make its debut at this year’s competition.
From 1998 to 2023, the two clubs competed for the Eric Cree Shield in a year-round home and away format. However, with no remaining space on the original trophy to engrave future winners, local player and skilled cabinetmaker Chris Leitner crafted and donated a new shield, ensuring the tradition continues.
Historically, the Eric Cree Shield, named in honour of a respected figure in Bundaberg’s table tennis community, succeeded the original Trevor White Shield. The Trevor White Shield, named for a local businessman and long-time Rocky club committee member, was awarded between 1971 and 1997. This legacy means the two clubs have engaged in their annual face-off for more than 53 years.
Despite a few top players from Rockhampton being unable to make the trip down the Bruce Highway this year, the Rocky contingent is set to be competitive and will aim to bring Leitner’s handiwork home. Leading the lineup in this year’s seven-team competition are some of Rockhampton’s finest: Matthew Pettett, Joel Coughlan, and Rayden Smith. They’re joined by strong players like James O’Sullivan, Judd Carr, Nick Green, Jakob Baker, Glen McDonald, and Kelsey Pettett (nee Le Maistre), who are expected to perform well in the upper division. While Rocky’s middle teams will look to hold their ground, Bundaberg is traditionally strong in the lower divisions, particularly on their home turf.
Though the name chosen for the new shield may not play a significant role in motivating players, the camaraderie and friendly rivalry between the two clubs will ensure a spirited competition. This event has long been a highlight for players from both cities, who enjoy participating regardless of the outcome.
Back in Rockhampton, players continue to sharpen their skills through open grade fixtures and regular practice sessions. In the latest fixture match, Matthew Pettett comfortably handled a challenge from the city’s top junior, Judd Carr. Though Pettett claimed a straight-sets win, Carr impressed with strong rallies and quick shots, following up on his standout performance against Rayden Smith the previous week. In other matches, Smith prevailed over James O’Sullivan, and Joel Coughlan bested Ann-Louise Stewart.