Much debate has been going on since Singapore clinched the world champions title for Table Tennis after China’s defeat, in fact, the first in 19 years. Some rejoiced for Singapore’s victory, while others labelled Singapore as the “2nd China Team”.
Personally, this matter relates to myself a lot, because being a amateur table tennis player myself, it is not difficult to understand the sweat and effort required for this seemingly small, but draining sport.
I sincerely applaud the efforts of our home team - they have fought well, and indeed they have put in all they have - from skill and technique, to spirit and determination. Indeed, as quoted from team manager Mr Eddy Tay, “They felt that the past didn’t count”.
Many coldly commented that Singapore’s victory is merely the “2nd China Team” winning the “1st China Team”. It is not difficult to see why such thoughts will arise, because our home team indeed consist of all Chinese players. However, it is definitely not easy to understand why there is no applause for Singapore’s effective training system.
Feng Tian Wei, who is World no 2 today, was once a rejected member of China’s table tennis team. But today, she stands at the apex of the table tennis world, and it was she who led Singapore to greater heights.
This is no doubt, testament to our effective training system, that I strongly feel, does not deserve such cold comments from ourselves, as Singaporeans. As quoted from Lee Bee Wah, President of Singapore Table Tennis Association, “At this level, the abilities of the players are quite similar and the difference between victory and defeat is mental strength”.
Well done, Singapore, for making our players believe in themselves!
1 comment:
Jonah, well written piece of article. The idea is focused, your stance is clear and good choice of words.
Keep up the effort!
Lian Beng
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