by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor
Under the guidance of Aiman Fazeer Yap, a total of 22 students attended, 20 men and two women. Five were teachers, six were full-time coaches and 11 were part-time coaches.
Notably one student travelled from Sabah, by air a distance of over 1,000 miles; the most senior course member was 75 years of age.
Six table tennis tables and 400 balls were available throughout.
All the participants responded to the efforts of Aiman Fazeer Yap. In particular the practical sessions were well received and prompted extensive discussion, as did the Para sessions where the students had the opportunity to play using crutches and sitting in wheelchairs.
Furthermore, the importance of the theme “Breaking Down Barriers with Table Tennis Balls” was appreciated; notably such was the enthusiasm that the daily sessions had to be extended by 30 minutes.
Throughout, Aiman Fazeer Yap stressed the need focus on the fundamentals and establish a sound base from which progress can be made. It was an approach appreciated all course members, in particular Chin Yi Xuan, a current state player and aspiring coach from Kuala Lumpur.
“The knowledge gained to keep a coaching sessions fun and easily understandable for beginners and children was most important. The course really opened up a whole new perspective. Coach Aiman was extremely helpful, his strict emphasis on the laws of table tennis really helped.” Chin Yi Xuan
Likewise Ong Soi Wah, the senior member of the group and a coach of considerable experience, despite his 75 years, maintained his energy and enthusiasm throughout; it was the same from Jeffrey Ho, a full time coach in the State of Pahang.
“The right way to handle the beginner from the very start was most useful. I think it was the perfect course, excellent.” Jeffrey Ho
Positive responses; it was the theme throughout both weekends.
“My special thanks to the organiser, the Expert Swing Table Tennis Center; also my thanks to the Table Tennis Association of Malaysia and the International Table Tennis Federation for making the course possible.” Aiman Fazeer Yap
A pass rate of 95 per cent was the end result; all are now eager to fulfil the 30 hours of practical coaching in order to receive certification.
