Quebec City, Canada – Last week, the vibrant city of Quebec played host to the 2024 National Women’s Training Camp, an event that brought together aspiring young athletes and coaches from across the country. Among the participants was a national team player and assistant coach, who shared her reflections on the enriching experience that unfolded over the course of the camp.
The camp, which welcomed athletes aged 10 to 18 from eight provinces and territories, was marked by a remarkable diversity of perspectives and experience levels. “It was so exciting to see such a wide range of talent and enthusiasm for table tennis,” the assistant coach remarked. “The athletes were not only eager to learn but also curious about each other’s experiences, which fostered a collaborative and supportive environment.”
The coaching and administrative team, composed of individuals with enriching international backgrounds, played a pivotal role in shaping the camp’s success. For the assistant coach, who is relatively new to the coaching scene, the opportunity to learn from established female coaches was invaluable. “I rarely have the chance to discuss coaching strategies with other female coaches, and this camp provided the perfect environment for that,” she noted, expressing gratitude for the insights gained from her colleagues, including Mariann, Julia, Iryna, Joyce, Phuong, and Karine.
The camp was filled with memorable moments, from engaging training sessions to bonding activities. She highlighted the joy of working with the athletes, who demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to share their experiences. “It was heartwarming to see the athletes connect with one another, both on and off the court,” she said, recalling the camaraderie that developed during meal times, roommate arrangements, and fun excursions, including a walking tour and a boat cruise around the picturesque city.
A significant aspect of the camp was the encouragement and support the assistant coach received from her peers. “Leading certain parts of the training sessions allowed me to practice my group management and communication skills,” she explained. “This kind of experience is rare for me back home in Vancouver, and it has truly boosted my confidence as I look toward my future coaching endeavors.”
Ivy emphasized the importance of such camps for the development and retention of athletes and coaches in table tennis. “I hope to see more opportunities like this for female athletes and coaches across Canada and globally,” she stated. “With adequate funding and support, we can nurture a love for table tennis and help athletes strive for excellence at all levels.”
As the camp concluded, the young coach expressed her gratitude for the experience and her hopes for the future of the Canadian table tennis community. “It was an honor to be part of the National Women’s Training Camp this year,” she reflected. “I look forward to working together with our community to create more opportunities for athletes and coaches, ensuring that our sport continues to grow and thrive.”
With a renewed sense of purpose and a network of supportive coaches, Ivy is excited to carry the lessons learned from the camp into her future endeavors, advocating for the development of table tennis and the empowerment of female athletes across the nation.
