The Ghana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has recorded another milestone in its efforts to strengthen the technical base of table tennis in the country following the successful completion of its umpire training programme by eight participants who successfully passed the final examinations.
The participants underwent intensive training and assessment as part of GTTA’s efforts to develop competent technical officials with the knowledge and skills required for effective table tennis officiating.
The participants who successfully completed the examination process are David Agorsah, Benjamin Frimpong, Oppong Portia, Pearlynda Naa-Ayerkor Ankrah, Esther Seyram Frimpong, Apelles Amui Addy, Foster Brown Agudu, and Doris Delali Drah.
The course formed part of GTTA’s continuous initiative to develop competent technical officials capable of supporting the growth and organisation of table tennis competitions at various levels.
Participants were taken through key areas of umpiring, including the laws of table tennis, match procedures, responsibilities of umpires, and other essential aspects required for effective officiating.
Course facilitator David Senyo Ahiaba explained that the programme was designed to equip participants with a proper understanding of the rules and regulations of table tennis and how they apply before, during, and after matches.
He added that the training was aimed at ensuring that newly trained officials are better prepared to enforce the laws of the game, make accurate decisions, and contribute to the improvement of match standards at all levels of competition.
One of the participants, David Agorsah, described the course as a valuable experience and expressed his belief that the knowledge acquired would contribute to the development of table tennis in Ghana.
According to Agorsah, officials play an important role in the growth of the sport, as both coaches and players rely on umpires to ensure that matches are conducted according to the required standards.
He explained that when officials consistently apply international standards and correct common errors during matches, coaches will also be encouraged to train their players to better understand and follow the rules of the game, which will ultimately help raise the overall standard of table tennis in the country.
The successful completion of the programme provides the newly certified umpires with the foundation to contribute to the smooth running of table tennis events while improving the standard of officiating in Ghana.
GTTA continues to prioritise capacity building for coaches, umpires, referees, and other technical personnel as part of its broader vision of creating a stronger and more professional table tennis environment.
