Tabling the tentative table-top Wimbledon
"Don't be afraid of new challenges. We faced opponents much better than us at trials and we loved it because we loved the sport we played. If you love a sport don't be afraid of defeat or challenges, but use it to make yourself grow."
There are many different codes of sports in the world.
From the excitement on the soccer field, to the rough edges of a rugby match or the relaxed pace of test cricket. Sports have their own cultures. Sports have a diversity not only in the people a sport can attract but also in the way the sport is developed and played.
A challenging sport that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your home or an Olympic stadium is table tennis.
Requiring quick reflexes, control, excellent hand-eye coordination and an eye for subtle chances, it can develop many day-to-day skills people take for granted.
Lincoln Heights pupils, Abdullah Paruk and Aslam Randeree are two avid table tennis players who want residents to experiment in the competitive side of this sometimes overlooked sport.
“I first tried the sport when I was much younger and I was immediately hooked. It has been one of my favourite sports ever since. I only really started playing competitively when my teacher, Afzal Khan suggested it to me,” explained Abdullah.
Both young athletes have participated in Amajuba District trials and qualified for Natal trials last year.
Speaking about the qualification, Aslam described it as a hard process.
“We once believed we played the sport well. When we went to nationals we saw real players. Young guys, no taller than the table itself, gave us a run for our money,” he joked.
Albeit having not made the Natal side, both players are keen on improving their skills and do their best.
Believing that table tennis is all about consistency, both players today regret they didn’t pursue it from a young age.
“I left the sport for a few years after I started playing in Grade 3. Biggest mistake ever!,” continued Abdullah, “In Grade 10 when I picked it up competitively again, I was shocked. If you like the sport don’t let it go, and if you haven’t tried it yet, then go out and have a blast with it!”
Abdullah said hitting the perfect shot was an almost indescribable feeling.
“The ball comes off sweetly. It’s like everything planned in your head just materialises in that shot.”
Advising other players, Aslam explained his belief that the body is a person’s greatest asset.
He believed it was an investment to maintain your good health and practise everyday to improve.
“Don’t be afraid of new challenges. We faced opponents much better than us at trials and we loved it because we loved the sport we played. If you love a sport don’t be afraid of defeat or challenges, but use it to make yourself grow.”
Playing everyday during school breaks, both players are grateful the school has the facilities to enable them to do so, and appeal to other schools to follow suit.
Believing that table tennis is an excellent stress reliever, the two advised everyone, young, old, or borderline-crazy to take it up.
