International Events | 28 Jul 2024

ETTU's Para Committee Chair led the preparations for 2024 Paralympics in Training Camp in Thailand

As part of ITTF's development plan, ETTU's Para Committee Chair, Alessandro ARCIGLI, led a "Para Table Tennis Training Camp" in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from July 14th to July 20th. This camp was part of the inclusive initiative "With Paris in Mind: Living the Paralympic Dream."

Hosted by the Thai Paralympic Preparation Center in the sports city of Nakhon Ratchasima, the camp trained seven male and eight female athletes from seven different countries: Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, and India. All athletes are qualified for the next Paralympics.

"I was very happy and proud to be part of this initiative, which the International Federation considers very important," said ARCIGLI. "I must thank Mikael ANDERSSON, ITTF Sports Director, and Omar Refaat BASSYOUNI, ITTF Development Project Manager. I also congratulate the Thai Table Tennis Federation and all contributors to the success of this camp. The Local Organizing Committee, coordinated by Wilailak TANCHAROEN and Parinda PAESUWAN, was instrumental in managing the complex logistics."

The event held international significance and was under the patronage of His Majesty the King of Thailand.

ARCIGLI highlighted the dedication and motivation of the players and the positive influence of the seven local coaches: Lalan DOSHI (India), Andre GUNAYA (Indonesia), Tang Mun Fai LAWSON (Singapore), Ip Ho NAM (Hong Kong), Krueathip THONGYOO (Thailand), Wattanachai SAMRANVONG (Thailand), and Kitti JOMKEEREE (Thailand). These coaches brought valuable Paralympic table tennis experience to the players.

Training sessions were rigorous, with over six hours in the gym daily. Sessions included traditional training, multiball sessions, and matches, divided into two daily 3-hour sessions, each with a 15-minute warm-up and break.

This camp was a vital opportunity for athletes to learn and train differently, promoting the long-term growth of Paralympic table tennis and reinforcing ITTF's commitment to creating more opportunities for Paralympic players through a network of skilled coaches.

Participants appreciated the coaches' advice, which introduced useful variations in their play style, making the experience highly positive.