The world tour began in Asia, continued in Europe, Oceania and Africa, before concluding in the Americas. Over the two days of this first session, 253 players (119 girls and 134 boys) along with 181 coaches from 80 Member Associations (MAs) joined the journey.

The first session was a great success, working in direct interaction with players and coaches with minimal interruption to a regular training session. Based in their regular training environment, players and coaches set up their equipment in a way that enables ITTF’s High Performance unit to partake virtually in the training sessions within this environment, providing guidance, instructions and advice on a rotational basis, closely mirroring on-site training camps.

“It was an amazing experience to have all those kids along with their coaches participating in the Hopes program gave us a feeling of returning to action after the many challenges of the past year.” Massimo Costantini, ITTF High Performance Elite Coach.

The program will not only feature online training sessions but will be enriched by educational activities delivered by subject matter experts and appearances by world class players, sharing their experiences and interacting with Hopes players and coaches.

Where pandemic restrictions will allow, the online program will be complemented by onsite activities in the form of the traditional Hopes activities.

The entire process of online and (possible) onsite activities will lead to a selection of 20 girls and 20 boys to participate in the World Hopes Week & Challenge, currently planned to be held in mid-December. This event represents an important milestone within a player’s progressive pathway.  In fact, many players who in the past have followed the Hopes Road have used the advantage and opportunities it provided as a springboard for higher achievements.

In keeping with the fortnightly rhythm of the program, the next session of the Hopes Around The Clock will be held in the week of 12 July.