27 May 2018

Tehran, the capital of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the largest conurbation, the most densely populated of all; furthermore the city with many table tennis clubs and players was the recent home for an ITTF/PTT Level One Coaches Course.

Organised under the auspices of the ITTF Development Programme, supported by the Table Tennis Association of Islamic Republic of Iran and the Asian Table Tennis Union, the itinerary commenced on Saturday 12th May and concluded on Wednesday 16th May.

by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager

The expert on duty was Mehran Ahadi, a former national team captain and now member of the Board of Directors of the Table Tennis Association of Islamic Republic of Iran.

“Proceedings throughout were conducted in a dedicated hall for table tennis with all necessary facilities and requirements; high international standards were met. Glenn Tepper in addition to other prominent ITTF Course Conductors, have visited the premises.” Mehran Ahadi

Notably, a total of 23 coaches from nine provinces participated, all familiar with table tennis; high level coaches, past and present champions, alongside present day prominent players attended.

“Most were familiar with the basics of coaching to a desired extent and were very enthusiastic and interested in collaborating in the class activities. Most of the coaches were already experienced in coaching different age groups.” Mehran Ahadi


The Para table tennis sessions as always captured the imagination

Well organised, Mehran Ahadi followed the contents of the ITTF Level One Coaches Manual. He focused on basic techniques, sports science and training methodology.

”Highlights of this course were specific exercises for developing co-ordination which were taught, demonstrating innovation in training exercises. They were also warmly welcomed by the participants.” Mehran Ahadi.

All the students responded, a fact that both pleased and motivated Mehran Ahadi.

“My heartfelt thanks go to Afshin Badiee, the ITTF Development Officer for Asia; my thanks for his useful comments, support and advice. Also, I appreciate the efforts of the Iran Table Tennis Federation who made the course possible.” Meharn Ahadi.

A most successful course was completed.


An explanation at the start of a practical session (Photo: courtesy of Mehran Ahadi)

High Performance and Development Coaching Mehran Ahadi