Paddles up!
Intensive table tennis ignites passion in aspiring athletes
SEBONGILE MATHE
MASERU – The Lesotho Table Tennis Association (LTTA) recently hosted a crucial training camp in Maseru, from April 27 to May 7. This intensive programme served a dual purpose, fostering the next generation of table tennis players by engaging children as young as five, and upgrading the skill of current coaches and umpires.
The camp represents a significant investment in the future of the sport in Lesotho. LTTA president, Chabeli Mohatlane, highlighted the importance of the recent training camp in strengthening the sport within the country. He explained that the programme’s dual focus on developing young players and upskilling eleven coaches and umpires from various districts is crucial for grassroots development.
Mohatlane noted that their outreach extended to schools, with table tennis programmes implemented in three different locations, Khubetsoana, Ha Abia, and the Olympic Center at Ha Thamae – all in Maseru,
According to Mohatlane, this initiative is vital for the growth of table tennis in Lesotho. He explained that by starting with young players at the grassroots level and fostering their love for the game, the programme will ultimately produce future champions for the country.
Mohatlane highlighted the international opportunities this training program creates for Lesotho’s coaches and umpires, enabling them to lead table tennis within their communities and participate in international events.
“This initiative is vital for the growth of our beloved sport in Lesotho,” he stressed. He stated that his goal is to see table tennis played by wider range of people, including those with disabilities and older individuals. He wants to broaden participation and help the sport grow even further in Lesotho.
Mohatlane also announced that the LTTA will send two girls and one boy to the Region 5 Games in Namibia in July. Two umpires, a coach, and a team manager will also join the team.
He emphasized that this participation, by those who benefited from the recent training program, was timely and would greatly benefit the participants.
Mohatlane reiterated his commitment to promoting table tennis throughout country during his presidency. He believes recent training programme has been instrumental, and is confident that his vision of thriving national table tennis scene will be realised in the coming years.
He highlighted Lesotho’s abundant talent and encouraged parents to support their children’s participation in the sport, emphasizing the potential to produce internationally competitive champions.
