You have been playing for a long time, so what sorts of changes have you noticed in the game?
Like other sports, huge improvements have been made over the years in equipment. When I first started playing most players played with the old style hard barna type bat. It was the effect of sponge being introduced and the high looped balls, similarly to tennis that radicaly changed the game. Latterly, speed glue has also given players more power with their shotmaking. My personal view is that following the ban on the speed glue in 2008, the player that is fitter and can last the longest, with those long topspin rallies, will come out on top.
What changes, if any, would you like to see in the game? I would like to see the game promoted better, with more investment through local companies and sponsorship of teams and better facilities and venues. However this will only come through improved marketing, and media exposure.
How did you get involved with Progress? When was that?
My good friend Mark Kinlocke told me about London Progress, and one Sunday afternoon Matt and I took the 2 hour journey to the club with Mark and Garth, for a training session. We were both impressed with the buzz around the club and I suppose the enthusiasm generated from this guy we met called Jon Kaufman (have you heard of him?).
Can you recall what has been your most difficult match to date? I seem to struggle against defenders, although they are few and far between.
For the youngsters what are the skills that must be mastered to become a great player.
There are many skills needed to become a top player.
Firstly, enthusiasm, and a keeness and willingness to work on their fitness whenever possible, and a continued commitment to work really hard on improving their game. They must also learn and master how to play against ALL types of playing styles, whether they are defenders, combination bat players, attackers or lefties.
Mental tougness and a positive never-give-up attitude, alongside receiving quality coaching and good sparring and above all, good footwork, will help them on the road to success. Often, progression means change, and adapting to new ideas. Listen and learn from your mentor and always give 100%. Remember, perform at your best when your best is required. Your best is required every time you play!
Is there any particular type/style of player that you *HATE* playing against? None, I just love playing against all playing styles.
How do you manage to combine sport and study/work?
When you have a sport you love playing you will always find the time!
What other sport would you play at a high level if you were not playing table tennis?
Golf, I suppose. I did get down to ten handicap at my peak.
What other sports do you play casually at any level? None really.
When was your last encounter with another player that tried to intimidate you? What happened, if anything?
It has never happened to me.
|
