As we enter UK Coaching Week 2024, it feels right to begin by paying homage to my coaches who have inspired and empowered me, enriching all aspects of my life through sport. Thank you!
Crossing Continents: My Table Tennis Journey from India to the UK
I have played table tennis at a high level in India and continue to do so, in the UK. Having been coached in both countries, I aim to highlight some interesting differences and other key aspects of the coaching style and culture between the 2 countries. I also occasionally coach one-off training sessions and I’m constantly amazed by the mental shift I need to make, to coach in the UK as compared to my coaching sessions in India.
The major difference I personally find is the way individuality and different playing styles are treated in both countries. Growing up playing table tennis in India, I felt coaches tried to build a winning formula around each player’s unique style of play no matter how unorthodox they might have seemed. Watching kids being coached in the UK, there is a much stronger focus on getting the basics right, playing ‘the right way’ and building upon a preexisting style of play. While there are pros and cons to each method, it makes for interesting viewing and comparison. This has a direct impact on the approach to a game, at the level I compete in. Being brought up in the Indian system, I prefer shorter rallies, outwitting my opponent technically and using unorthodox serves and unique angles. Most of my opponents who have grown up in the UK system prefer longer rallies, don’t smash as much, stay far from the table, use straightforward angles, and prefer playing at a similar rhythm to the opponent.
Contrasting Coaching Environments
In India, I feel there is more focus on winning at all costs (fairly), the system is quite cut-throat and growing up in that coaching system, there was little to no focus on aspects such as safeguarding, mental health and personal space. While things probably have changed for the better now, I can only pen down my experiences from the past. In my view, the most commendable aspect of the coaching set-up in the UK is the protocols in place for safeguarding, a better focus on mental health and a softer approach to victory and defeat.
Lessons Learned and Thoughts Shared
It is interesting to note how the sport is the same, the rules are the same but geographical, socio-cultural, and other factors play such a huge role in shaping the coaching environment across different countries. The difference in coaching methodologies makes it seem like different versions of the sport are being played in different countries. In international tournaments where countries play each other, the differing playing styles are out there for everyone to witness and compare. All the points highlighted in this blog are my own personal experiences with the sport and coaching and other people could have a completely different reading of the situation. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
