by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor
Self-funded and staged at the Juarez Autonomous University of Tabasco, the premises which had hosted the prior Basic Umpires Course, a total of five students attended; four men and one woman, representing the cities of Villahermosa and Comitan Dominguez.
“I thought this course would have been easier but the referee needs to know everything.” Miguel Vera
Once again the whole schedule was co-ordinated by Gerardo Palavicini who was understandably delighted with the outcome and the response.
“The course was complete and removed any doubts; now I will continue in the process. I will to start to study English because it will help me to open more doors”. Gerardo Palavicini
A delighted Gerardo Palavicini but arguably the most delighted course member was Francisco Abarca; on the Basic Umpires Course he had gained the top marks, he did the same on the Basic Certified Referees Course.
“This guy is young and very intelligent, I think he has a big chance to move higher in the future if he wishes.” Freddy Almendariz.
“Many parts of the Handbook were new for me on the Basic Umpires Course but on the Referees Course I could to see that everything is important; the referee needs to study very hard to be ready for reply to answer players’ questions. One of the more difficult parts of the course was the group calculation but at the end I could understand. I want to say thanks to Professor Gerardo Palavicini for this opportunity and Freddy Almendariz for bringing us his knowledge.” Francisco Abarca
Overall, it was a most successful course, with Freddy Almendariz grateful to the Juarez Autonomous University of Tabasco and the Government of Tabasco for the support which had been afforded.
“Thanks to all here in Villahermosa, this is the beginning of more activities, I know that in 2018 the Professor Gerardo Palavicini is working towards organising a Para Tournament in Villahermosa and for sure they will need to have a large number of qualified umpires which Tabasco now possesses.” Freddy Almendariz
Matters concluded with certificates were presented; the ceremony being followed by Freddy Almendariz and Gerardo Palavicini being subjects of a television programme in Tabasco.
“I liked this course and you need to read and analyse the rules because the referee must take important decisions in a tournament.” Denisse Lopez
Notably, all members of the Basic Certified Referees Course had attended the Basic Umpires Course; following the close of proceedings they were able to put theory into practice.
A tournament was staged at the Villahermosa University on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th June; it proved an ideal opportunity to hone skills and correct any errors in procedure.
The participants were: Francisco Abarca, Jhonatan Marquez, Gerardo Pelavicini, Denisse Lopez, Miguel Vera.
