by Ian Marshall, Editor
Similar to the prior course, the attendance figures reached the maximum limit of 20 students, all male, 10 members being full-time, 10 being part-time.
Preparation complete, proceedings were opened by Mehrdad Aligardashi, President of the Table Tennis Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran; returning hot foot from the Liebherr 2019 World Championships, he encouraged all present.
“Learn to be a great coach; I hope all coaches return to support their provinces and to put theories into practice, good luck with the course. Thank you to the international trainer for elevating our coaches’ knowledge and supporting the federation’s education and training programme.” Mehrdad Aligardashi
Notably, as with the immediately preceding course, more than half the coaches held a Master’s Degree in Physical Education or Sport; most had played in national leagues or at provincial level. Most significantly present was Afshin Noroozi, he competed in the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games; he attended alongside Mahdi Khoshmaram a full time coach who assists national team members.
“It was indeed a good course, I gained from both theory and practical presentations and demonstrations which I can apply as both player and coach for my future career working efficiently with our young players.” Afshin Noroozi
All the coaches were enthusiastic, Christina Chee having to respond to many challenging questions. The coaches worked hard, discussions going on late into the night in the hostel. The outcome was that all gained high marks, notably three students with 100 per cent.
“We received knowledge on high level training and on technical analysis especially different variations in blocking, body adjustment and footwork. I will use the new skills and work immediately with my young players.” Mahdi Khoshmaram
A most successful course; moreover it was one that attracted media attention, Christina Chee was interviewed on the first day by the National Sport Radio, a 24 hours radio programme exclusively for sport.
“Appreciations to Fatemeh Keyvani, Table Tennis Federation of Iran Vice President and Head of National Talent Identification Programme, also a certified Level One Course Conductor for working professionally as translator for the whole duration of the course.” Christina Chee
Throughout, as with the previous course Miss Faeze Tabrizifar, Table Tennis Federation of Iran International Affairs Department Manager, organized matters in a most professional manner; a fact of which Christina Chee was most grateful, flights hospitality all arranged perfectly.
Matters concluded with a closing ceremony conducted by Mahmood Nazori, Secretary-General of the Table Tennis Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, alongside colleagues, he worked tirelessly to promote the course, thanks are extended for his time and efforts.
