The African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF), under the leadership of President Wahid Oshodi, has underscored its unwavering dedication to fostering the growth and development of table tennis coaches across the continent. Recognizing the crucial role coaches play in nurturing young talents and elevating the sport’s overall standards, the ATTF is committed to providing ample training opportunities and resources to empower coaches and equip them with the necessary skills to compete effectively with their international counterparts. This commitment stems from the understanding that coaches, much like their players, require continuous learning and development to stay abreast of the latest advancements in coaching techniques, tactical strategies, and player management.
Oshodi’s presence at the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF)-organized National Hopes Week served as a platform to reiterate the ATTF’s commitment to coaching development. He emphasized the importance of aligning coaching proficiency with player development, advocating for a parallel growth trajectory. Regular training courses, workshops, and exposure to international best practices are essential tools in this pursuit. The recently concluded Level 2 Coaching Course in Tunisia, coupled with the previous ITTF Level 1 Coaching Course, exemplifies the ATTF’s proactive approach to enhancing coaching expertise within the continent. These initiatives are designed to build a robust coaching pathway, enabling coaches to guide their players towards achieving international success.
The ATTF’s focus extends beyond merely providing training opportunities. It also emphasizes the importance of a continuous evaluation process to assess the effectiveness of coaching programs and their impact on player development. The NTTF National Hopes Week, with its focus on young players, is a prime example of this approach. By observing the skills and progress of players who have been under the tutelage of coaches who have participated in ATTF-organized training programs, the federation can gauge the practical application of acquired knowledge and identify areas for further improvement. This emphasis on a practical, results-oriented approach ensures that coaching development translates into tangible advancements in player performance.
The NTTF National Hopes Week, featuring a diverse pool of young table tennis talents from across Nigeria, serves as a testing ground for the effectiveness of the coaching development initiatives. The tournament not only showcases the emerging generation of Nigerian table tennis players but also reflects the quality of coaching they have received. Oshodi highlighted the importance of identifying and nurturing talent at a young age, referencing the global trend of top players increasingly emerging from the U-21 category. By fostering an environment where young players can compete and showcase their skills, the NTTF and the ATTF are fostering a culture of early development, paving the way for future international success.
Tunji Lawal, Chairman of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association, echoed Oshodi’s sentiments, commending the NTTF National Hopes Week as a vital initiative for the growth of table tennis in Nigeria. Lawal emphasized the significance of identifying and nurturing future stars, drawing parallels with Nigeria’s current leading player, Aruna Quadri. The tournament’s emphasis on identifying and nurturing young talent is seen as a critical step towards replicating Quadri’s success and building a strong pipeline of future champions. Lawal’s acknowledgment of the importance of learning from setbacks, even in the face of defeat, underscores the commitment to continuous improvement and the understanding that challenges are opportunities for growth.
In conclusion, the ATTF’s commitment to supporting coaches through comprehensive training programs and opportunities for practical application of learned skills reflects a long-term vision for the development of table tennis across Africa. By equipping coaches with the necessary tools and knowledge, the ATTF aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where both coaches and players can thrive. The NTTF National Hopes Week serves as a tangible manifestation of this vision, providing a platform for young talents to shine and demonstrating the positive impact of investing in coaching development. The collaborative efforts of the ATTF, NTTF, and other stakeholders demonstrate a united front in their pursuit of elevating table tennis in Africa and establishing the continent as a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
