by Ian Marshall, Editor

Led by Egypt’s Ahmed El-Dawlatly, ITTF Expert and Course Conductor Trainer, the venue was the Liberty Stadium-Ibadan, one of the oldest sporting venues in Nigeria; matters locally being organized under the watchful eye of James Eakyns, Secretary-General of Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF).

Overall, a total of 20 students attended representing four African countries. In addition to the 15 local participants, three course members travelled from Ghana, one from Tunisia and one from Burkina Faso.

Most notably the member from Tunisia was Ramzi Marbrouk, the Africa Development Manager, whilst Paul Tiendrebeogo, the recently appointed ITTF West Africa Development Officer, was the Burkina Faso representative. Also, Bello Nosiru, a well-known Nigeria National Team Head Coach, attended.

“The importance and benefits of the coaching course cannot be over emphasized. The course will further enhance the knowledge of the coaches as well as abreast them on modern techniques of the sport. The NTTF hopes to maximise the window of opportunities created by the course. We look forward to having more ITTF courses in Nigeria.” James Eakyns

Meanwhile in addition to James Eakyns, Olabanji Oladapo, member of the ITTF Board of Directors visited; matters concluding with a closing ceremony at with two special guests were present.

“Mr Femi Ajao read the speech of the National Olympic Comittee President, the zonal co-ordinator for South West Zone, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development. Mr. Waheed Ekun a former Nigerian champion and former chairman of Oyo State Table Tennis Association, spoke on behalf of the NTTF President.” Ahmed El-Dawlatly

A successful initiative, on that was welcomed and appreciated by all.