Table Tennis conducive to developing people

Table Tennis conducive to developing people
:dr mazin hadi kazer altaie



Table tennis is a sport which requires quick reactions, strategic thinking and persistence. It is unique in that it is a sport that everyone can play. Requiring a minimum of equipment, it is easily adapted to any social setting.

Table Tennis provides opportunities that otherwise would not have existed, especially in countries which have suffered conflict. On all continents, Table Tennis has been used to rehabilitate, engage with youth in a constructive way and provide fitness, fun and a social outlet. Table Tennis is a particularly suitable sport to empower young women and girls given that it is an enjoyable sport, easy to learn and play and does not depend on physical strength.

Table Tennis is a sport which can be played from a young age, in teams or individually and which can transcend political, gender, religious, and cultural boundaries. With the role of a coach essential to ensure correct technique, Table Tennis is particularly adapted to being played in school halls and sheltered environments with a coach guiding and instructing his students.

The role of coach as “role model” and “leader” in this environment encourages constructive and open relationships within the community hence contributing to the achievement of development objectives such as empowerment of women, rehabilitation following trauma, confidence building, discipline, respect and fairplay