by Aleksey Yefremov, Course Conductor
A total of nine coaches attended the ITTF Level Two Course , three being female with, in addition to Malta, the countries of Iceland, Spain and Malta being represented.
Two sessions were held per day, theory and practical, video presentations were included as the principles of education, advanced techniques, physiology and psychology were addressed.
I was happy to see the high level of interest, especially the efforts of three coaches who had travelled from Iceland and Spain. Notably the eight members of the group, who sat the end of course examination all passed with high marks.
It was my third time to visit Malta: in 2009, I conducted Eurokids. Later in 2015, I led a training camp following a personal invitation of from the High Impact Table Tennis Academy led by the main force of Maltese table tennis, Mario Genovese, 21 times the Malta nation champion and island’s spearhead at World Championships.
Notably, Johanna Grech, the General Secretary of Maltese Table Tennis Association was a most active participant on the course and expressed her satisfaction with the programme. She wishes to continue these kinds of activities for Maltese coaches and players
Additionally, all the coaches gained practical experience by attending the training camp held at the High Impact Table Tennis Academy. Overall 16 players, seven girls and nine boys from four clubs, were present. Pertinently, three girls from Lithuania, who were on school holidays, alongside their coach, took part in the training camp.
Throughout eight table tennis tables and 300 balls were available; two sessions were held per day; the first from9.30am to 12.30pm, the second from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.
The main target of the training camp was to give a view of modern table tennis whilst also improving technique and footwork. Also we paid attention to tactical combinations with service and return of service. All the players were most appreciative of the advice received.
A most successful visit was duly completed, for me most worthwhile.
