by Ian Marshall, Editor

A total of 20 students attended, in addition to Santo Domingo; students travelled from Mao, Moca, San Juan, Distrito National, Santiago de los Caballeros and Monte Plata.

The course conductor was Ecuador’s Freddy Almendariz, the current ITTF Pan American Competition Manager; locally matters were organised by Victor Hernandez, the Dominican Republic’s Chair of Umpires and Referee Committee.

“Ten members of the group took the International Umpires exam; we are working very hard in the development of this area in Dominican Republic.” Victor Hernandez

A successful course, Freddy Almendariz was delighted with the response.

“In charge of the Pan Am events, I feel happy to see the local organising committee prepare technical officials before events, good performance by umpires is important. Also it was good to see many umpires take the International Umpires exam; this is good for the development of associations as organisers.” Freddy Almendariz

One notable student was Sergio Caraballo, in 2017, when Freddy Almendariz had visited the Dominican Republic to conduct a Basic Umpires Course, he had gained the highest marks.

“I am really happy to be here, I would like to thank my association because they are supporting us all the time, I still dream of being at an Olympic Games and representing the Dominican Republic.” Sergio Caraballo

Dedicated, it is a very similar situation for Humberto Reinoiso, who works full time in table tennis. In addition to umpiring, he organises both local and international events.

“We have this chance every two years; I feel that now is my time. It was good to have a refresher course before the event because we can see the changes in the rules and the new procedures.” Humberto Reinoso

The students who sat the International Umpires Examination were: Sergio Caraballo, Rafael Fernandez, Braimy Mendez, Simon Montes, Kelvin Peralta, Humberto Reinoso, Arisleidy Rodriguez, Aurelina Rojas, Christopher Solar and Arlwin Tavarez.