The reason is that at the International level we still have problems with regards to the correct implementation of the current service rule. I know that you and others may say that those problems are due to the poor implementation of the rules by some umpires, and the inconsistency in the application of the rules by several umpires. So, logically the problem could be solved by better training the umpires. But we have over 4,000 umpires all over the world and that takes a long time. So, our preference is that while training and educating umpires, we also must make their task easier, hence, the modifications proposed (above-the-head serving).
I agree that this rule may be difficult to implement at the lower grass roots levels. But frankly speaking it is not intended for those levels. As a matter of fact we will be very specific to indicate that the rule is for the International level, and for national associations to adopt for their top National events only. Something like the "off-side" rule in Soccer. I have played in many leagues over the years in which the Off-side Rule does not apply. My wife is an avid soccer player and still very active in two local leagues, one applies the off-side rule and one does not. It should be the same with the new service rule.
As for the 21 points games, well, in my opinion this is a dead issue now. The new scoring system seems to be fully engrained at least at the international level.
I hope that this explanation is to your satisfaction. By the way, where exactly is your club? Perhaps I could drop in one day and we can play with a 38 mm ball, 21 points games and serve any old way we want. After all we can play to have fun at your club, right? But be careful, I have a wicked back-hand.
Adham Sharara
ITTFPresident
Dear Mr. Sharara,
I have read most of your comments about changes in TABLE TENNIS.
You mentioned some time ago that TT needs some stability.
I understand why the chinese wants the new service proposal to go through. That is because a lot of players do not respect the current basic rules of service in TT. On the other hand it is going to be very difficult to execute for many players especially at grass-root level. I am a grass root player. I like the changes you have made so far (11up, showing the ball when serving). The new proposal is going to kill the game, literally in a lot of part in the world. That is because it is very difficult to do. Fewer newcomers are going to take up the game. They are not going to bother and chose something else. There is so much choice anyway.
Above all, the game needs to be played by as many players as possible and not by just an elite.
Even some of our good players in the league will find it difficult to execute.
We need to make the game attractive and not impossible to play. If you attract fewer newcomers you will reduce the chance to get good players. The only ones left will be in countries like China or Korea. Fine, they are very spectacular players to watch, but it is not enough.
I think that for the sake of the game, this proposal change needs to be reviewed. This has not been thought through.
The finish proposal is probably the best alternative proposal ever.
Believe me I am a table tennis mad as I always look at the ITTF web site and others.
I even think that going back to 21up would be a lot better than this new proposal of service.
I have a very bad feeling about this and usually my instinct does not let me down very often
Roger BERTRAND
Hilton Table Tennis Centre.
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