Table tennis has been a source of recreation since it first appeared in England during the late 19th Century. It gained popularity in the 1920s following the emergence of clubs across the world and the formation of the International Tennis Federation in 1926.
Its eventual spread to the Asian region has sparked much interest, making it one of the most popular sports widely played in the region. Brunei Darussalam is definitely no stranger to the sport.
The community in the country has played the sport for quite some time, whether it is leisurely among friends and family, or competitively in all ages and both genders.
HOW IS THE SPORT PLAYED?
A favourite aspect of it is that a match can be played between a minimum of two players, and a large space is not required.
A stationary rectangular-shaped table is used, generally measuring a length of 274 centimetres (cm), with a width of 152.5cm, and a playing surface height of 76cm from the floor. The ball used measures about 40 millimetres (mm) and is either white or orange.
The game is played with each player taking alternating turns to return a ball using a small paddle made from laminated wood covered in rubber.
The player who is able to get the ball to bounce off the stationary table without a reply shot from their opponent will ultimately earn a point.
The first player to reach a certain number of points will win a set, while the player who wins the most number of sets will win the entire match.
Alternatively, the game can be played both individually or in a doubles’ format.
The doubles’ format requires much focus, agility and strong discipline. Table tennis surely carries both physical and mental health benefits as it puts participants to the test, especially when it comes to their desire and willpower to win a match.
THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING TABLE TENNIS
Engaging in this sport offers numerous benefits, including the improvement of reflexes, resulting in swift and precise movements.
Table tennis also directly activates various muscle groups, leading to enhanced muscular coordination, while also contributing to the development of stamina as players must effectively regulate their breathing while employing strong muscles and swift movements.
The combination of these factors fosters optimal control and endurance on the table tennis court.
BRUNEI’S INVOLVEMENT IN THE SPORT
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports through the Brunei Darussalam Table Tennis Association (BDTTA) with the cooperation of the Southeast East Asian Table Tennis Association (SEATTA) successfully organised the Southeast Asian (SEA) Youth Table Tennis Championships 2023.
The tournament was previously called the SEA Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships. However, this year saw the start of the name change by SEATTA.
The six-day tournament from June 13 to 18, at the Tutong Sports Complex, was participated by nine countries, including the host nation – Brunei Darussalam. Several categories were contested for male and female youth aged under 15, 17 and 19.
The championship does not only unite the youth but also fosters closer friendships and nurtures the dreams of the future generation.
It is hoped that tournaments such as this will be able to attract young players who have the potential to develop and subsequently gain the opportunity to represent the country in regional and international competitions.
Though the achievement of the country is less prominent, it must be admitted that much enhancements must be made to succeed, but the young athletes’ brave performances must be commended as they have the potential to be developed and progressed.
Based on this tournament alone, the BDTTA has taken positive steps in learning and identifying the weaknesses in the national team to increase their potential in the future.
This does not only focus on training and coaching issues but also encompasses how paramount it is to take care of the athletes’ welfare.
To foster the continued growth and development of table tennis, it is crucial to undertake various initiatives, particularly focused on introducing the sport to the younger generation, especially at the grassroots level. These efforts are essential to prevent the sport’s popularity from waning. – Fadhil Yunus
