by Ian Marshall, Editor

Commencing proceedings notable names attended the Opening Ceremony.

Significantly present were Mrs. Tünde Szabo, Hungarian Secretary of State for Sport and Thomas Weikert, President of the International Table Tennis Federation, alongside Roland Natran, President of the Hungarian Table Tennis Association and Pongrac Acs, Vice Dean of the University of Pécs, Faculty of Health Sciences.

“Numerous interesting lectures were provided by 100 authors personally from different countries of the world. Scientific discussions were carried out in five different oral sessions and a poster session.” David Paar

The Danubius Hotel Flamenco proved a first class venue, all the facilities for a highly successful initiative being available. Furthermore, there was an added element.

“Many new scientific connections were established, the international network of table tennis sports scientists has been widened. The official gala dinner and the production of the Dancing Team of University of Pécs connected the scientists under informal conditions.” David Paar

Matters concluded with an address from Professor Miran Kondric.

“He stressed the most important purpose of the Congress was not necessarily the publication of papers but the strengthening and establishing of closer relationships between the participants whilst serving players and coaches with useable knowledge.” David Paar

Overall, a most positive response for a most valuable venture, one from which all benefitted; the local organisers can reflect with an element of pride on having completed a most successful Congress.