by Ian Marshall, Editor

Overall a total of 13 coaches attended; in addition to the hosts, the course members travelled from the Latin America countries of Ecuador, Honduras and Panama. The expert on duty was Venezuela’s Luisana Perez, who as always, had matters prepared in detail; a most significant aspect of the course was each coach had to present a 10 minute practical class on a selected topic.

Notably, Ecuador’s Marcia Bonilla attended in her role of President of the Latin American Table Tennis Union’s Women’s Commission; she enrolled in order to closely experience the process of training coaches.

“The course was very good, excellent; for me it was a challenge. I had never thought about attending but I wanted to take the opportunity to participate with the coaches of other countries and have more ideas to help the most needy children in my country. They like sport and like table tennis. Now I have valuable knowledge that will allow me to explain table tennis better to young players, coaches and other such leaders.” Marcilla Bonilla

Certainly the response from Marcilla Bonilla, a former President of the Ecuador Table Tennis Federation, who lives in the heights of Quito, impressed Luisana Perez.

“It was admirable to see the strength and energy that she has; she is 71 years old and she participated in all the activities. It is an example to follow for the youngest. The group of coaches is different for each course; her presence made this one really special. It was a plus for all, keep going, never stop training, improve yourself and those around you.” Luisana Perez

The course concluded, next on the itinerary was a Women and Sports Forum on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th September; the programme beginning with Teresita Anchia, from the Costa Rica Olympic Committee presenting “Development Plan and Professional Profile of Women in Sport”. Following the presentation, a workshop was held in the meeting room of the La Paz Park Training Centre.

Matters concluded with the international day of the heart being recognised; a class was organised focusing on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Presented by the Costa Rican Institute of Sports; the course members learned the main techniques of first aid in case of an emergency cardio respiratory situation. In addition, the coaches participated in a physical assessment circuit and were assigned a personalized training plan.

“All the activities were carried out as planned. Having the opportunity to participate in the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation workshop was very valuable. I thank the Costa Rica Table Tennis Federation for all the logistical effort made to guarantee the success of the course and the Women’s Forum. The activities carried out were perfect: Table Tennis for All, for Life! I’m very happy with the work done. It was a success for the Women’s Commission of both the Latin American Table Tennis Union and the International Table Tennis Federation. I hope that more Latin American coaches will join in 2019.” Luisana Perez

A most valuable initiative, matters concluded on a more relaxed note, the group visited Loro Park in Cartago, some 45 minutes distant from San José.