For the new generation of table tennis players in Ghana, the forthcoming ITTF World Junior Circuit(WJC) and the African Junior and Cadet Championship (AJCC) will surely provide ample opportunity for them to showcase their talent in front of their home fans against the visitors.
The Media officer of Ghana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), Nathaniel Kwesi Somuah spoke to some of these players on their expectations as well as their targets for the double-header tournaments holding at the Trust Emporium Hall in Accra from April 1 to 13.
Promising junior and cadet players such as Baidoo twins – Augustine and Augustina, Samuel Hagan, and Godwin Nyarko Aseku are leaving no stone unturned, as they have continue to intensify their preparation for the training championships.
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“I’m extremely happy Ghana is hosting this year’s WJC. I have never had the opportunity to watch any major tournament before and so I am excited that I will be playing in my first international tournament in my own country. This tournament will help us get the necessary exposure, boost our confidence and increase our enthusiasm for the game and also help us gain international recognition. We will get the chance to meet players from other countries which I think will improve our level of play,” said Samuel Hagan
The teenager added: “I have weekly training schedules with my personal coach. We train not less than four hours every day. Training is going on perfectly. I am focusing on tactics now and I can see an improvement in my techniques. I have my personal training I do as well. I am fully prepared physically and mentally for this competition. My plan for this competition is to win a medal for Ghana in this very important tournament. I am sure my colleagues have same agenda.”
“I have a dream, not just an ordinary dream. I want to break into the current national team. It is possible. I have played senior team players in many tournaments and I have done extremely well. The agenda is to get selected into the national team for the African Games. Even though it is a tough task, I think with hard work and perseverance I will qualify during the national trials for the African Games,” said Samuel Hagan.
