In Ghana, the OS ITTF-PTT Level 1 Coaching Course, conducted by Mohammed Atoum, took place from 19-23 January 2024. Held at the University of Ghana Sports Directorate, the course offered both theoretical and practical table tennis training to 28 participants of diverse backgrounds, including six women and three international participants from Niger. The course focused on improving match tactics, third-ball attacks, and overall game stability. The activity was followed by a six-day intensive training camp to prepare 18 players (11 of them female) for the upcoming African Games in March.

“This course was an eye-opener on basic Table Tennis training for us as participants. The ITTF conductor was so knowledgeable and it made the course fun. He made all practical sessions simple and understandable. I am glad to have attended and I will go back and start training my athletes the right way.” Ayodele-Eletu Idowu, coach participant

“The program was very tactical. I was able to learn the fundamentals to correct my basic mistakes. The practical part was so intense and very professional, which gives me the confidence that I can make it to the top level.” – Cynthia Kwabi, athlete

However, despite these positive steps, the Ghana Table Tennis Association faces significant challenges, including a lack of permanent venues and modern equipment. Nonetheless, the enthusiasm and dedication of participants ensure that the sport’s future in Ghana looks bright.

In Iran, two major coaching courses took place from 6-14 June 2024, at the Iran Olympic Academy. The OS ITTF Level 2 Coaching Course attracted 20 participants, while the ITTF Course Conductors Training saw eight experienced professionals refine their skills. Iran has emerged as a force in table tennis over the last decade, and the Iranian Table Tennis Association continues to aim for higher standards, taking opportunities for initiatives like these.

Iran’s rich sporting heritage, coupled with the increasing number of educated coaches, has significantly improved the quality of table tennis in the region. Participants demonstrated great enthusiasm, reflected by 100% attendance, showcasing their commitment to elevating their skills and further developing the sport.

The OS ITTF-PTT Level 1 Coaching Course in Lagos, Nigeria, held from 8-15 June 2024, focused on modern coaching techniques and training principles. A total of 40 participants, including 10 women, benefited from the expertise of Olympian Saka Suraju and top national player Fashola Aminat Abimbola, both of whom participated in the course under the guidance of Mohammed Atoum and contributed significantly to the productive atmosphere onsite.

Participants were eager to apply what they had learned to their local training programs. As Suraju noted, “This course presents a great opportunity for the development of table tennis in Nigeria.” Meanwhile, Fashola emphasized the importance of the course for the future of para table tennis, reflecting on how both theoretical and practical aspects enhanced her understanding of the sport.

The course enjoyed full support from Mr Dayo Abulude, the Secretary General of the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation, who worked tirelessly throughout the activity to ensure that the necessary arrangements and logistics were in place. He said:

“This course opened the doors for the coaches to learn a lot and improve their skills which we believe will affect the players in provinces to support a new generation who can move forward and keep Nigeria at the top of the continent.” – Daryo Abulude, Secretary General of the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation

The training camp that followed further prepared 36 players, including 13 women, for the upcoming WTT Contender Lagos. With guidance from experienced coaches, these players refined their tactics and improved their match readiness, setting the stage for Nigeria’s continued success in the sport.

Between 6-10 July, Tajikistan benefited from an OS ITTF-PTT Level 1 Coaching Course, held in the Special Sports School of the Olympic Reserve № 5 in Dushanbe. Led by coach Yevgeniy Timchenko, the program aimed to equip local Physical Education teachers and university lecturers with essential skills to develop the next generation of table tennis players.

The 18 participants, five of whom were women, expressed their gratitude for the course, which included both theoretical and practical sessions. Participants emphasized the importance of such courses for the future of the sport, with the Tajikistan National Olympic Committee (NOC) showing keen interest in further collaboration to enhance development.

In Vietnam, the OS ITTF-PTT Level 1 Coaching Course, held from 12-19 July at Tien Son Stadium in Da Nang City welcomed 40 participants. Coaches came from various regions, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Quang Nam, and spanned a wide range of professional backgrounds.

Notable feedback came from coaches like Mrs. Vo Thi Thu Nga, Vice President of the Table Tennis Federation of Can Tho City, who said: “I learned many new things that will benefit my city’s players.” Mr. Nguyen Van Vo, a Quang Ninh City gold medalist, praised the course’s scientific approach and organization, calling it one of the most professional he had attended.

The youth training camp that followed helped identify promising young talent, aged 8-11, preparing them for future national and international competitions. Two players participating were invited to the ITTF Sports Development Super Camp in Thailand along with their coach, taking the opportunity to train and compete with their compatriots from across the globe.

From 20-28 August, the Jordan Table Tennis Federation hosted an ITTF Level 2 Coaching Course alongside a training camp in Amman under the guidance of Ashraf Abdelfattah (EGY). A total of 16 participants took part, including five coaches responsible for national teams, a female national team player, and a member of the Federation’s Board of Directors. The group also included a special needs coach, reflecting the camp’s commitment to inclusivity. Participating were coaches from Lebanon, Palestine and Iraq, partially funded by the ATTU as a regional course.

The course venue was well-equipped with six tables and ample training materials. The curriculum covered advanced topics in sports science, mental preparation, and ethics. Practical sessions focused especially on refining tactical training and improving serve and receive skills. The balance between theory and practical training ensured that participants were able to apply new concepts immediately on the table.

The success of the camp was largely due to the participants’ discipline and commitment, making it a highly productive and rewarding experience.

“The ITTF Level 2 course was both informative and practical. The theory sessions were clear and simple, while the practical part allowed us to practice crucial skills under the expert guidance of the instructor.” – Baraa Mohamed, national team player

“The course provided in-depth knowledge in sports science and ethics, with a strong focus on applying these principles practically. The interactive format made it a standout experience for all involved.” – Bassel Harb, national coach, Lebanon

By investing in coaching education and player development, these initiatives are sowing the seeds for future table tennis champions across the globe, with 6 further Member Associations from 3 continents set to take advantage of the support offered by Olympic Solidarity in the last months of this year.