by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

Venue for the whole proceedings was the gymnasium at the Salesian Secondary School, an education establishment of some 2,300 students, local priests being responsible for the educational needs.

Excellent conditions were afforded; throughout seven table tennis tables were available with the necessary support requirements such as chairs, desks, white board, television and sound system being provided. Team coffee and snacks were supplied at all times.

Notably nearby a Sports Festival was also being staged.

“The conditions were very good. The new Executive Committee of the Ecuador Federation is looking to host a big event, an ITTF World Junior Circuit, Latin American or Pan American tournament.” Ramon Ortega Montes

The school operates closely with Paul Calle, the President of the Ecuador Table Tennis Federation who is responsible for a local club in the city where he is the full-time coach

A total of 20 students of whom three were female attended; notable one member being from Venezuela; overall 18 students passed the course.

“I’m from Venezuela, now I’m living in Quito and I will be here for months or years. I want to be a very good coach and teach children, this is my first step in my idea of teach youngsters”. Anghelys Anabell Moreno Ortega:

“I already coach my nephew and I want to continue in a better manner and with more knowledge. The course taught me a lot and now I will be able teach in a better way.” Oscar Eduardo Sambrano:

“I have been waiting for this course for 10 years. Now I want to absorb and retain as much as possible.” Enrique Adrian Davila

“I have a son with disability so I wanted to do the course, to learn how to coach him.” Pablo Valarezo

A positive response, in 2007, Cuenca hosted the “Mega Five” could such an initiative be set to return?