by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager
The expert on duty was Ecuador’s Freddy Almendariz, the ITTF Pan American Competition Manager; his task to prepare more umpires for the various international events to be held in Paraguay. In the near future, Paraguay will host an ITTF World Junior Circuit tournament, a Road to Buenos Aires event and the Pan American Cup.
Undoubtedly, Benjamin Real, the President of the Paraguay Table Tennis Federation is the motivating force. He was present to welcome all course members.
“I am happy to help to prepare more umpires; such courses are vital for Paraguayan table tennis.” Benjamin Real
Currently, the table tennis stadium which provided the venue, located in the National Ministry of Sport is being remodelled; a practice room has been added. Also there is a room where the players can take the lunch and dinner.
“It was a good chance for Paraguay to prepare more officials. Paraguay is promoting many international events. It is important they have a good quantity and a good quality of umpires. The national association is committed to development.” Freddy Almendariz
Notably delighted with the course was Manuel Britez, Chair of the Paraguayan Umpires and Referees Committee.
“In Paraguay now we have a project that started several years ago. We have formed a group of umpires that will strengthen officiating at events in Paraguay. I thank the International Table Tennis Federation, the Latin American Table Tennis Union and all the experts involved.” Manuel Britez
All responded to the efforts of Freddy Almendariz.
“These kind of courses are important for all of us because table tennis every day is getting more important in our country.” Juan Arce
“I would like to be part of the umpires team selected for the next international events in Paraguay.” Cristian Centena
“It was a very didactic course thanks to the preparation made by the expert. It was easy to understand. I would like to umpire in a big event.” Benicio Moreno
Freddy Almendariz congratulated to all participants and awarded certificates.
The participants were: Joprge Azari, Santiago Buenuelos, Marcos Di Mena, Derlus Maedina, Roberto Cardozo, Jose Greco, Diego Coronel, Cristian Centena, Jerko Harasic, Benicio Ferreira, Marcelo Arce, Leonardo Torres, Benicio Moreno, Juan Arce, Luis Valdez, Claudio Melgarejo and Gabriel Azari
In addition Yoanna Ramires, Chair of the Latin American Table Tennis Union Umpire and Referee Committee, attended as part of her preparation to become a course conductor.
Paraguay now has 16 new Basic Umpires.
