adminGeophrey Sifani Sports Reporter
THE Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture will conduct a table tennis beginner’s coaching course targeted at primary and secondary school Physical Education teachers at the Drill Hall in Bulawayo on September 18.
The ministry’s sports development and promotion officer for Reigate district Mayibongwe Sibanda said the initiative was inspired by his attendance of a similar course for developing countries in China last month.
He said table tennis could be used to attract more pupils into sports as it had a lot of advantages for people living with disabilities. “It’s a unique sport that’ll see many pupils from all walks of life take part in and it’ll develop competitive athletes,” said Sibanda.
“We’re also trying to introduce this sport into schools because it’s unique and uncommon.
“It’s easy to learn and helps improve reflexes, mental alertness and speed, balances one and reduces chances of falling and is also an indoor sport that can’t be affected by the weather.”
He added that the ministry was looking at introducing more sporting disciplines considered uncommon in schools as a way of giving pupils a wider choice.
“Table tennis equipment is expensive and the coaching clinic will also look at ways of improvising such as using locally made tables, especially for schools that have woodwork as part of their practical subjects,” said Sibanda.
He said they were hoping to lure sponsors and continue promoting sport by conducting other coaching courses in communities around Bulawayo as part of their efforts to reduce youth unemployment.
Online Reporter