THEY CAME, THEY SAW AND THEY WERE CONQUERED

Possibly the best attended workshop this year for aspiring coaches was held at the Boskruin Community Centre in October under the eagle eye of course presenter Sarel Oberholster.

With 13 candidates, 12 of whom were teachers or learners from Totomeng Primary in Meadowlands, Jeppe Boys High, Kes and Randburg High, the success of the course proved that there are people out there willing to get involved in growing the number of players entering the game and in raising coaching and playing standards in general.

However, the excellent turn-out can be ascribed to the efforts of a small number of people, Sarel included, who picked up the phone to identify and encourage would-be coaches to come forward. And their unselfish efforts paid great dividends.

Thanks also to the Gauteng Table Tennis Board for providing the funds to meet the costs of running the course. Sarel and assistant lecturer Gavin donated their time, and what an eye-opener the day turned out to be.

Many of the teachers who attended have never picked up a table tennis bat, never mind attempted to hit a little yellow ball travelling at high speed. But boy oh boy, a few gems emerged who will no doubt prove that successfully coaching is not laid on the foundation of great playing skills.

Ms ‘Happy” Lebogang Johanna Moruane was called to direct two players at the table and within seconds had them sorted, no problem. What a coaching star in the making.

The course and content were highly rated by all attendees, some of whom asked for refresher sessions at a later stage.

Now, all the aspiring coaches have to do is log up hours of coaching and come forward for assessment. The next course is likely to be held in the first quarter of next year. That gives you time to identify aspiring coaches. Get busy and let’s continue to our efforts to grow the sport.