Zambia's National Youth Games: Building a Future for Table Tennis

The National Youth Games in Zambia aim to decentralize talent selection in sports, particularly table tennis, by allowing players from rural areas to qualify through provincial competitions. This initiative seeks to create pathways for athletes outside of Lusaka, the capital, although inconsistent implementation and late communications have led to challenges in the selection process.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

Coaches play a crucial role in preparing young athletes for competition. Mr. Malambo, who leads the Southern Province team, emphasizes the importance of psychological readiness alongside technical skills. He has trained players like Eunice Hanyuma and Agness Fisonga, who both aspire to compete internationally. However, the lack of facilities after school hours limits their training opportunities, as access to tables is primarily available at school.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

The tournament has highlighted the potential of young players. Eunice Hanyuma, who trained rigorously, finished second in her competition, expressing mixed emotions about her performance. Agness Fisonga, who has been training for three years, has also emerged as a national player, crediting table tennis with transforming her life. Both athletes have formed friendships with players from other provinces and share aspirations of competing on an international stage.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

The National Youth Games serve as a feeder system for higher-level competitions, including the National Youth Championships and the ITTF African Youth Championships. The Zambia Table Tennis Association (ZTTA) is focused on identifying players with growth potential rather than just those who excel currently. Despite the absence of cash prizes, the Games offer medals and national recognition, which are seen as significant rewards.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the Games, table tennis in Zambia faces several challenges. There is a critical shortage of ITTF-standard equipment, and ZTTA currently relies on private venues, which is not a sustainable model. Parental support varies, with families from private schools more likely to embrace sports for their children's development. ZTTA is working to engage parents through workshops that highlight the educational and career opportunities in table tennis.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

The ZTTA envisions a structured approach to developing table tennis in Zambia, including standardized coaching and mobile equipment kits for schools. They are also planning a "Youth Games Legacy Program" to distribute equipment to participating schools post-event. While the current participation in the Games was limited to 42 players, the association aims to expand this number significantly in the future.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

• “Table tennis has changed me from what I was to who I am today — a national player.” — Agness Fisonga

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

• “I felt happy and sad because we came out second position even though I wanted first position.” — Eunice Hanyuma

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

• “high-speed chess.” — Collins, ZTTA Representative

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games

The National Youth Games represent a significant step in establishing table tennis as a competitive sport in Zambia. While challenges remain, the dedication of young athletes and the vision of the ZTTA indicate a promising future for the sport in the country.

42 Players and a First: Table Tennis at Zambia's National Youth Games