Bridging Borders Through Sport: The 2026 German-French Table Tennis Camp
Sport has a unique ability to dissolve borders and foster international friendships. From July 26 to August 1, 2026, Strasbourg will host the German-French Table Tennis Camp, an initiative designed to blend high-level athletic development with cultural diplomacy. The camp brings together 32 talented youths, aged 14 to 17, from Germany and France for a week of intensive training and mutual exchange.
Combining Elite Training with Cultural Exchange
The camp’s curriculum balances rigorous sport with educational exploration. Participants will engage in daily table tennis training sessions led by licensed coaches from both nations, ensuring they receive professional technical guidance while interacting with peers from across the border.
Beyond the table, the program emphasizes integration through a variety of curated activities:
- Language Animations: Interactive sessions designed to break communication barriers and encourage linguistic exchange.
- Civic Education: A visit to the European Parliament, offering participants a firsthand look at the heart of European governance.
- Urban Exploration: Guided excursions through the historic city of Strasbourg.
- Social Integration: A diverse schedule of evening events to build lasting bonds between the athletes.
Logistics and Accommodations at CREPS Strasbourg
To ensure a fully immersive experience, all training, lodging and dining take place directly at CREPS Strasbourg. The organizers have structured the living arrangements to maximize interaction. participants will stay in mixed German-French pairs, fostering friendship and communication outside of official training hours.
The camp provides full board for the duration of the stay, ensuring that the nutritional needs of the young athletes are met. The total participation fee is set at 450 Euro.
Registration Process and Deadlines
Due to the limited capacity of 16 participants from France and 16 from Germany, a structured registration process is in place to ensure fair selection.
| Phase | Deadline/Date | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-registration | May 31, 2026 | Submit initial application for consideration. |
| Confirmation | June 30, 2026 | Selected applicants must confirm their spot. |
| Additional Window | June 1 – June 30, 2026 | Open for remaining available spots. |
Key Takeaways for Applicants
- Who: Youths aged 14–17 from Germany, and France.
- When: July 26 to August 1, 2026.
- Where: CREPS Strasbourg.
- Cost: 450 Euro (includes full board and training).
- Core Focus: Professional table tennis training and international cultural exchange.
Contact Information
For further details or to initiate the registration process, interested parties should contact Paul Gournet:
- Email: paul.gournet@lgett.fr
- Phone: +33 3 83 18 88 11
This camp represents more than just a sports clinic; it is a strategic investment in the next generation of European athletes and citizens, using the fast-paced game of table tennis as a catalyst for lifelong international cooperation.