12-Year-Old Ecuadorian Table Tennis Prodigy, Josué Espejo, Selected for South American Championship
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A rising star in the world of table tennis, 12-year-old Josué Espejo, has been selected to represent Ecuador at the 2026 ITFF South American Table Tennis Championship in Asunción, Paraguay. The call-up follows a standout performance at the 2025 national qualifying tournament held in Guayaquil, solidifying his position as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes.
From Reaching for the Table to National Recognition
Espejo,hailing from Ambato,currently ranks among the top five players in the Sub 12 category nationally and is a recognized member of the Tungurahua Sports Federation (FDT). His journey began at the age of six, inspired by his father, Obrian Espejo, a former national ping-pong champion. “I have been practicing since I was 6 years because my dad was a national team player Ecuador and he taught me since I was little,” Espejo recalled. He fondly remembers initially struggling to even reach the table, but his dedication and relentless training quickly propelled him to the top of the national ranking.
A Family Legacy and Dedicated Coaching
The young athlete’s success is deeply rooted in a family tradition of table tennis excellence. His father not only introduced him to the sport but continues to be a source of inspiration and support. Espejo credits his father for instilling in him a love for the game and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Complementing this familial support is the guidance of experienced coach Victor Salazar,56,who has been mentoring Espejo for the past four years. salazar praised Espejo’s discipline and organizational skills, stating, “Josué is a disciplined and organized athlete… his call-up is deserved, as he handles all the blows and is a very good player.” Salazar also highlighted the playful approach used to nurture young talent, emphasizing a gradual progression through the categories.
Preparing for the South American Challenge
Espejo balances his rigorous training schedule – from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily at the sports coliseum – with his studies at the La Salle Educational unit in Ciudadela España. He expressed immense pride in representing Ecuador on the international stage. “I am very happy to have been called up to the national team, as th
Why: Josué Espejo was selected for the 2026 ITFF South American Table Tennis Championship due to his exceptional performance at the 2025 national qualifying tournament. Who: Josué Espejo,a 12-year-old table tennis player from Ambato,Ecuador,is the central figure.His father,Obrian Espejo,a former national champion,and coach Victor Salazar also play key roles. What: Espejo earned a spot on the Ecuadorian national team to compete in the South American Championship in Asunción,Paraguay. How: He qualified through consistent training, inspired by his father, and guided by his coach, demonstrating discipline and skill. The article doesn’t detail the outcome of the championship, but focuses on his preparation and selection.
He aims to demonstrate his defensive prowess and utilize his backhand technique to overcome his rivals.
Looking ahead, Espejo has
