After stunning the judges last week with his table tennis inspired salsa, Will Bayley is winning the heart of the British public and promoting our sport to a new audience.
Bayley will be taking on the Paso Doble this weekend on Strictly Come Dancing. A dramatic dance that will see Bayley attempt to enact his best matador impersonation. Originated in southern Spain, it is an intense, dramatic, and aggressive dance that requires a commitment to the attitude necessary to effectively translate the bullfighting story across the ballroom.
On first thought, you would expect a fiery piece of Hispanic music to compliment Bayley and his efforts. However, as it is movie week, Bayley is continuing to change the game. A more unconventional approach is required having been assigned the famous “Gotta Catch ‘em all” from the lovable animated movie, Pokémon.
A song that is uncharacteristic for the show, however not for Bayley. “Our courage will pull us through”, and that courage and mental attitude displayed by Bayley so far throughout the competition is symbolic of why the public is falling in love with the positive, determined and inspirational aura that follows suit after his performances.
“There’s no better team”, and Table Tennis England is still #BackBayley and wishes Bayley and Janette Manrara the best of luck for the weekend.
Viewers can vote online after all performances are finished. Remember to register an account with the BBC here, and then you are all set to go when the voting commences.
Table Tennis England is backing Bayley to help promote the sport to a new audience, and show that table tennis is for everyone. We are proud to promote inclusivity throughout our sport, and we encourage all of our clubs to use disability-friendly facilities. For further information, visit our being inclusive section.