by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager
A total of seven umpires being from San Salvador and La Paz attended.

“The participants had high hopes. It was the first time they had participated in referee training. They did not have any great knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a referee. Organising draws and deciding positions in groups, when players or teams had finished equal, attracted the most attention. Always all remained very motivated.” Yoanna Ramirez

All members of the group responded to the efforts of Yoanna Ramirez; in particular 24 year old Roxana Carranza, a young lady with a degree in Physical Education was most enthusiastic.

“I have learned a lot on this course; it was dynamic and motivating. My dream is to be a referee in a tournament in Latin America. I thank the El Salvador Table Tennis Federation for giving me the opportunity to participate for the first time in a referee course. My thanks to the expert who had so much patience and enabled us to understand all the tasks involved.” Roxana Carranza

Likewise, Marlon Beltran, a 21 year old Law student was most positive.

“This basic referee course was excellent. I learned the functions of the referee, I hope to put everything I learned into practice in national and international competitions; this is a continuous process and I hope to continue working and preparing to reach my goals.” Marlon Beltran

Now following both the Basic Umpires and Basic Referees Course, the El Salvador Table Tennis Federation has an increased number of officials who can make a positive impact on the sport.

Understandably, Carlos Esnard, the Technical Director of the El Salvador Table Tennis Federation was delighted.

“The increase in the numbers of referees will contribute a great deal to the development of our sport. We have a very extensive annual calendar and many competitions for young players. The newly qualified referees will play a major role in these tournaments. Our competitive and organisational level of table tennis in the country will improve.” Carlos Esnard

Four members of the group passed the course.

The participants in the course were: Roxana Elizabeth Carranza Arriaga, Claudia Marina Alvarez Linares, José Abel Guzmán Mejía, Roxana Beatriz Reyes Bonilla, Carlos Eduardo Hernandez Crespin, Candelario Evora Calderón and Marlon Josue Beltran García.