by Grant Wilson, Course Conductor

Grant Wilson from Christchurch New Zealand was the course conductor on duty.

Notably of the 13 participants, 11 were from Wellington; two were from further afield.

Jae Lee from Palmerston North is one of New Zealand’s top under 18 junior players; he thought the course was excellent and will go a long way in giving him confidence in the coaching he already undertakes with Matt Ball, the current New Zealand senior representative.

Gordon Stackhouse from Nelson, which is situated at the top of the South Island, also benefitted from the course. He particularly enjoyed the Para segment.

It was great to see young home grown talent also in attendance. Sean Hanson, just out of the junior ranks, honed his coaching skills and is already doing his required 30 hours by coaching beginners in the new Table Tennis Wellington junior group.

Para player and expert facilitator John Marrable was one of the highlights for all participants. His knowledge was extensive in all areas of Para Table and his great attitude and sense of humour endeared him to all involved with the course.

Wellington now has the base to launch itself back to the halcyon days it once enjoyed, with a new and motivated group of coaches ready to begin the all-important role of development of table tennis in this region.