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FAMILIES TAKE AWARDS Many will think that "Coaching" is only for juniors. Certainly it is true that it is aimed mainly at juniors, but anyone interested in starting out in the sport of table tennis and learning some of the basics can attend. As our picture spot below shows we even have parents attending with their children, and both are progressing well. Kathleen Austin, together with 3 of her children, is among recent recruits to table tennis. Her husband Ian used to be a league table tennis player out at Stock, maybe it's time he got back into action following the example of other members of the family! Kathleen has just passed the first stage of the Dunlop Skills Table Tennis Awards, to qualify for her "Rookie" badge. She may not end up as Ladies Champion, but at least she is getting a great deal of enjoyment from participation and encouraging her children at the same time - with whom of course she can now play table tennis, on just about equal terms! Long may it continue. In fact there has been a tremendous response to the efforts of the coaching team at Melbourne, led by ETTA Level 3 Coach Neil Gooday and organised by Club Secretary Adrian Pitt. Coaching is now available at all levels starting from the pure beginner and going right through to the Advanced Squad, where participation is by invitation with League Coaching Officer Hil Dowsett, supported by the Melbourne team. And what is especially encouraging is the week by week support of adult helpers as well as the parents who bring children along, a number of whom now stay and play also. And some of the youngsters attending are now being introduced to the wider playing scene, including representing Chelmsford and getting involved in tournaments. Much through the efforts of League Junior Match Secretary, Arthur Clark, one of the regular adult helpers. Arthur has been able to watch progress as he assists with coaching, and as opportunities arise has been able to encourage and direct juniors towards appropriate events and other competitive involvement. Arthur probably won't thank me for publishing a recent picture, but I would call him one of our often unsung heroes. For those of you who like facts and figures, you might like to know that since the beginning of September last, when the Melbourne activity began in earnest, the average attendance at the two main coaching sessions has been 32. In the first week back this year 4 new juniors attended for the first time. And it has been a typical feature that we are regularly seeing new people. We are delighted that ladies and girls continue to be an integral part of those attending coaching. We have 10 on the books at present, including two Mums! Both of whom come and play with their children. Since September 32 people have gained the Dunlop Skills Rookie Award and several are now working on their Improver Award. It has been a great effort and great fun. Often only made possible by the support and hard work of the Coaches and other adult helpers, without whom it would be nearly impossible with the numbers now attending. If you would like any further information about what's on offer email or telephone Club Secretary, Adrian Pitt, on 01245 250710. or visit the Club Info pages of this site.
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