Dotun Omoniyi, a table tennis coach, on Tuesday said the Ondo State Table Tennis Association (OSTTA) would require maximum assistance to be part of major national and international championships in 2018.
Omoniyi, who is OSTTA’s Table Tennis Head Coach, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the body would appreciate prompt response of the state authorities to its proposals.
He said this would help the association have the financial wherewithal to thoroughly plan and execute its annual activities at various levels.
“Our state government is doing a good job which we are thankful to it for, because this support has been instrumental to the development of table tennis in the state and region.
“However, in the same direction, we are still seeking for more support because of the activities involved within and outside the country, which we need to be taking part in.
“Sometimes we get stranded in participating in some of these championships because of lack of cash backing to budgets approved earlier,” the coach said.
He went on to disclose that a large number of the state’s athletes were in the mini-cadet, cadet and junior categories which are avenues for budding talents to be easily discovered.
Omoniyi added that the exposure in attending national and international events was fundamental to the progress of the young players.
“This can only be achieved by giving them opportunity to compete with their peers.
“More children are turning up for training, and we also try to encourage them, especially at the basics level, because the foundation must be technically good.
“We go the extra mile by creating opportunities for them to take part in competitions outside the state so that they can build their confidence and gain exposure, he said.
The coach added that the upcoming players have been punctual to trainings and are enthusiastic in aspiring to develop their skills in the sport.
“In view of this, they need to be encouraged to achieve their dream,’’ he said.(NAN)
