Dressed in the Portuguese national team jersey, racket in hand, Martin, 9, performs forehand exercises. Today’s goal? You manage to place the white ball in a circle placed on the other side of the net. “It’s really not bad,” says Rémi, one of the coaches at the Nogent table tennis club. “We try to have our racket well in front of you,” he also says to the 15 other neo-pong players present in the session, aged 8 to 10.
Like Martin, who has tried other disciplines without much success, most of the children here are beginners. Installed at the sides of the eight tables lined up in the gym on rue François-Rolland, about ten minutes walk from the city’s RER station, they continue their discussions with some who already want to try a few shots. “I like it because I can do dunks,” says the blonde at the end of the workout. I’m improving and this motivates me. »
How can parents find the right table tennis club for their children?
Title: The Rising Interest in Table Tennis Among Youth: An Interview with Rémi, Coach at Nogent Table Tennis Club
Q: Thank you for joining us today, Rémi. Can you share a bit about the current trend of youth participation in table tennis, particularly at the Nogent table tennis club?
A: Absolutely! We’re seeing a big surge in interest among children aged 8 to 10, like young Martin who participated in today’s session. Many kids here are beginners, having tried other sports without much success. Table tennis offers a unique blend of fun and skill development, making it very appealing. For instance, during our sessions, the kids practice forehand exercises and aim to place the ball within a specified target area, which keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging.
Q: It sounds like a great environment! What do you think is motivating these children to take up table tennis over other sports?
A: One major factor is the immediate gratification they experience. Kids are starting to see improvements quickly, like Martin, who said he enjoys it because he can do “dunks.” This instant feedback—whether it’s hitting a target or executing a proper shot—fuels their motivation. In addition, table tennis is relatively easier to pick up compared to more complex sports, which can sometimes be discouraging for beginners.
Q: That’s interesting! How do you structure your training sessions to ensure productivity while keeping it fun for the kids?
A: We maintain a balance by incorporating skill drills alongside fun games. For example, we focus on fundamentals like racket positioning and ball placement during exercises, but we also encourage creativity in how they practice. There’s a mix of structured drills and free play, enabling kids to enjoy the sport while honing their skills. This keeps them engaged and excited about returning for more, which is essential in any youth program.
Q: As an expert in coaching young athletes, what practical advice do you have for parents who want to encourage their children in sports, particularly in table tennis?
A: I recommend that parents prioritize enjoyment over competition at this stage. It’s crucial to foster a love for the sport rather than pressuring kids to win. Encouraging them to explore various sports can help find where their passions lie. Also, seeking clubs with a supportive environment, like we have at Nogent, can make a significant difference. Positive reinforcement goes a long way; celebrating small achievements can motivate kids to practice more and stay committed.
Q: Lastly, what do you see for the future of table tennis in youth sports? Are there any exciting developments ahead?
A: I believe table tennis will continue to grow in popularity among youth, particularly as more clubs invest in youth programs. There’s also increasing visibility due to national teams working towards greater achievements in international competitions. This visibility can inspire young players. Furthermore, with technology enhancing training methods, kids can have access to various learning tools that keep the sport dynamic. I’m excited to see how this evolution unfolds!
Q: Thank you, Rémi, for these valuable insights into youth table tennis. Your passion for the sport and commitment to young athletes is truly inspiring!
A: Thank you! It’s my pleasure to share and promote the joy of table tennis among the next generation. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s to come in this sport!