by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager

The Course Conductor was Nazanin Meghdadi, a lady with a doctorate in sport injuries and rehabilitation.

Home for the whole itinerary was the Shahid Dr. Azodi Stadium, a Multi-purpose venue where the Iran Table Tennis Federation’s international education and talent identification centre is based. Thus all the necessary facilities for a successful course were available. High standards were met.

“A total of 23 coaches from 10 provinces participated, all familiar with table tennis; among them were high level coaches, past and present champions and one national team member. Most were familiar with the basics of coaching to a desired extent and were very enthusiastic and interested in collaborating in class activities. Most of the coaches were already experienced in coaching different age groups.” Nazanin Meghdadi

Overall, a successful course, the gathering followed the efforts of Christian Lillieroos from the United States who had visited Iran earlier in the year to conduct an ITTF/PTT Level One Course which was followed by Course Conductor Training

“My thanks to Glenn Tepper, the former ITTF Deputy Chief Executive Officer for supporting the development of table tennis in Iran. Also, I extend my thanks to Afshin Badiee, the ITTF Development Officer in Asia for his guidance, support and advice; in addition my thanks to Christian Lillieroos, my Course Conductor, from whom I learned a lot. A special thanks also goes to the Iran Table Tennis Federation because of preparing all requirements to spread these courses in all parts of the country”. Nazanin Meghdadi

Well organised, Nazanin Meghdadi focused on the contents of the ITTF Level One Coaches Manual. She paid particular attention to basic techniques, sports science and training methodology as well as working with disabled players.

The Para element of the course in action (Photo: courtesy of Nazanin Meghdadi)