by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

At the commencement of the tournament the referee meets with all umpires and requests them to advise of any act which in their opinion promotes the very best values of sport.

Following proposals received, a selection panel comprising the ITTF Junior Commissioner, the ITTF Deputy Chief Executive Officer and the ITTF Education and Training Director met to determine the winner.

Respect, integrity and good behaviour, going beyond the written rule to demonstrate fair play and sportsmanship are the basic principles.

“During the team match against Tunisia the match was tied at two-all. Benjamin was leading 10-8 in the first game. He made a strong topspin, the Tunisian appeared to block the ball off the end of the table. The umpire awarded the game to Benjamin; the Tunisian player started walking to his coach; immediately Benjamin called him back advising the ball had hit the edge. Finally, he won both the match and this award in the spirit of fair play.” The Citation

Ben Gould receives a scholarship valued at US$ 1,500 which is to be used next year to attend ITTF tournaments, training camps or a visit an ITTF International Training Centre.

The award was presented by Mrs. Heike Ahlert ITTF Junior Commissioner.

.