by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

A welcome initiative, Dr. Emre Ak, a member of ITTF Sports Science and Medical Committee, was the course conductor for a detailed schedule which attracted a total of 12 students.

Notably, the participants travelled from throughout Turkey, representing a wide range of experience. Significantly, national team coaches who already own high level certificates were present, all well aware of the value of gaining a qualification recognised by the International Table Tennis Federation.

In particular, Samet Polat, Chair of International Relations Committee, Turkish Table Tennis Federation, alongside Bayramali Yıldız and Babür Üstündag, both national team coaches, were most impressed and most grateful for the efforts that had been made.

“I think this course has helped all of us improve. I am personally very grateful that I could attend a course led by an ITTF Sports Science Committee member, especially in my mother tongue. Furthermore, the level of those attending was quite high. I am looking forward to a further course very soon.” Samet Polat

“The course was very efficiently presented, both theoretical and practical sessions; especially going down to basics of all technical skills and making everyone actively participate made it most effective.” Bayramali Yıldız

“I am pleased that an ITTF/PTT Level One course was finally held in Turkey. We have been waiting for this for a long time. My friends and I liked both the theoretical and practical sessions. The content, prepared by using a multi-disciplinary approach, was very efficient. I thank the ITTF for giving us the chance to be a part of this family. I am looking forward to a Level Two course. I am also thankful to our course conductor, Emre Ak for sharing his scientific knowledge and combining with his table tennis experience.” Babür Üstündag

Now, the coaches must complete 30 hours practical coaching, with five hours supervised, in order to gain their ITTF/PTT Level One certificates.