Whitehorse, Yukon – September 8, 2024** – The Whitehorse Table Tennis Club recently hosted a series of workshops this September, aimed at training four new Community Coaches and introducing Competition Coaches in the Yukon. This historic venue provided the perfect backdrop for an engaging and educational experience.
Participants delved into the fundamentals of Table Tennis, engaging in fun games designed to welcome new players, while also learning how to effectively run practices, create yearly training plans, and coach during competitions. The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by the coaches were truly commendable.
Kevin, affectionately known as Mr. Yukon Table Tennis, expressed his pride in the program, stating, “The primary goal of this initiative is to train new coaches to ensure continuity within the club. Currently, we have only one coach, and as our club continues to grow, we need a stronger coaching presence. The next step is to keep these new coaches actively involved in the club and explore opportunities for them to coach in schools, where time and permission allow. Engaging at the grassroots level is essential for promoting the sport and ultimately increasing participation in our main club.”
Among the participants was Melody, a two-time Arctic Winter Games and one-time Canada Games athlete in Table Tennis. Born and raised in the Yukon, she shared her thoughts on the experience: Here’s a condensed quote based on Melody’s insights: “I took the course on a whim, encouraged by Kevin, and it turned out to be a transformative experience. I realized how crucial it is to keep sports fun and engaging for the younger generation. The variety of games and drills I learned not only enhances my Table Tennis skills but also inspires my leadership abilities. Creating a joyful environment encourages youth to stay involved in their hobbies. I’m eager to continue learning and improving my skills to confidently educate others.”
The next steps for the coaches include participating in multi-sport courses with Sport Yukon and compiling a portfolio for evaluation, which will include a video of them running a practice and coaching in competition.
Thorsten Gohl (ChPC), Master Coach Developer, expressed his excitement about the program, stating, “It’s fantastic to see the energy of the coaches, their willingness to learn, share their experiences, and truly enjoy themselves.”
The Whitehorse Table Tennis Club is eager to see the positive impact these newly trained coaches will have on the community and looks forward to witnessing the continued growth of Table Tennis in the Yukon.
