Table Tennis in Grenada

By Richard McAfee, USATT International Coach

From June 22-28, 1998, I had the great pleasure of presenting an Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course on the lovely island nation of Grenada. The purpose of the course was to prepare twenty-four physical education teachers to start up programs in schools and recreation centers across their country.

The course was divided into two sections. The first three days were spent teaching the equivalent of the USATT’s Basic Club Level Course. The final three days consisted of an intermediate course designed for those coaches that would work with the more advanced students as they moved from the school programs to more advanced coaching programs.

The course was very well received, with many of the coaches showing a great deal of personal talent, not only as instructors but as players as well. Training began around 8:30 a.m. daily and ended around 3 p.m. A fine lunch was catered in for all.

I need to personally thank a number of people who made this program possible. First the International Table Tennis Federation for extending the offer to me to give the course. Next, to both the hard work of the Grenada Olympic Association as well as the Grenada Table Tennis Association for taking such excellent care of the local arrangements. A special "Thank You" is due to the President of the GTTA, Dr. A. Antoine, who saw that all the details were worked out. Finally, to the North American Supplier of Butterfly products, the Martin Kilpatrick Company for their generous donation of two dozen racquets, two gross of balls, and a ball stand. The equipment not only made the course possible, but will be used to start summer programs immediately.

Grenada is often called the "Spice Island" as the spice plantations fill the air with their incredible mixtures of rich odors. It is a lush green island with the friendliest people, and I would highly recommend it as a stop for anyone looking for a great spot to visit.

Hopefully in a few years, you will also be able to find a lot of table tennis there as well.