It was agreed from the start, that membership should be “by invitation” and be open only to players and captains who had taken part in World Championships, as representatives of their respective countries
The strict adherence to this principle caused controversy, because of the clamour by many who attended World Championships in various capacities, who wanted to become members of the Club.
“It was not the aim to create an exclusive snobbish club”, said Victor Barna, “The aim is to include everybody who is eligible. In the early stages it was thought that a morally stronger Club can be built, if we go slowly and first enlist people who have the same idealism as the founder members, who want to help and are proud of the fact that they are members of a well-meaning Club”. Victor Barna
The rule has since been relaxed and there is now provision for outstanding personalities in the sport of table tennis who are not otherwise eligible for membership and for “Personal Honorary Members” who have given special service to the Swaythling Club International.
Eligibility for Membership
Membership of the SCI shall be available by invitation of the Executive Committee on the proposal of the National Representative to players:
- Players who have represented their country in at least one World Championships or at least one Olympic Games
- Non-playing team captains who have represented their country in at least one World Championships or at least one Olympic Games
- Outstanding service to the sport of table tennis
Subscription: CHF 20 for one year, CHF 80 for five years
Any member who is more than two years overdue with his/her subscriptions will have to be reconsidered as a member. The regulation is according to the Swaythling Club International Constitution.