July 19, 2010
Reach for the Stars, Table Tennis Progressing to New Heights in Yemen
 Ahmed El-Dawlatly, simply exquisite Photo By: Courtesy of Ahmed El-Dawlatly |
Courtesy of ITTF Home for the whole program of events was the capital city Sana’a, situated on the narrowest point of a major mountain plateau at the foot of the Nugum Mountain. |
Translated into English, it is the Mountain of the Stars, with Sana’s 2,286 meters above sea level, one of the legends being that it was founded by Shem, the son of Noah.
Practical Sessions in Pairs?
A total of 16 participants took part in the course with Egypt’s Ahmed Dawlatly assuming the modern day role of Noah, no doubt organizing the practical session two by two?
The 16 students comprised 13 men and three women from throughout the country; some travelling over seven hours in order to attend the 30 hour course.
First Para Course
“It was the first ITTF / PTT Coaches Course to be held in Yemen with a full six hours being dedicated to Para Table Tennis”, explained Ahmed El-Dawlatly.
Experienced in the art of delivering courses for the International Table Tennis Federation and a fine ambassador for the sport, Ahmed Dawlatly received high praise for his efforts from all concerned.
Importance Stressed
“Mr. Mohamed Al Ahgary, Secretary-General of the Yemen National Olympic Committee emphasized the importance of such courses for Yemen during his speech at the closing ceremony”, added Ahmed El-Dawlatly. “He urged all participants to make full use of the invaluable information contained in the ITTF Level One Coaching Manual.”
The Manual is an invaluable document in which Ahmed El-Dawlatly has been heavily involved; he translated the publication into Arabic.
Delighted Course Member
Equally members of the course were delighted.
“Mrs. Saeidah Saleh Mohamad, assured me that she`ll do her best to teach her children the wonderful game of Table Tennis after knowing many of its mysteries”, said Ahmed El-Dawlatly who, motivated, is looking ahead to more progress in Yemen.
Looking Ahead
“The country is looking forward to hosting its first ITTF Level Two Course”, concluded Ahmed El-Dawlatly. “As soon as all the Level One requirements have been met by coaches from this course and previous course, then a Level Two Course can be considered.”
Positive thinking and I know just the man for the job of being the Course Conductor!
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