Overall a total of 20 men, the maximum number permitted for such a course attended; no less than 15 members were full-time coaches, five part-time; most impressively they represented 15 provinces.

Notable members included Mehran Ahadi, a former member of the national team, now an Executive Board Member and currently a full-time coach in Tehran, alongside Amir Bakhshi, the National Hopes and Cadet coach.

“It was a good course, I do not regret attending, I learned a lot; it helped with my work with young players.” Mehran Ahadi

A detailed schedule was prepared by Christina Chee, a meeting with Mahmood Nazori, the Secretary-General was held around the breakfast table prior to the start of proceedings. The programme in place, matters began, extra time being needed for translation from English to Farsi, the task of translating being in the most capable hands of Nazanin Meghdadi, a certified Level One Course Conductor.

“There was a high level of academic excellence, the majority of the participants holding sports related Masters and Doctorate degrees; this often led to challenging questions and high level discussions.” Christina Chee

Coinciding with the Liebherr 2019 World Championships, a major attraction was to watch the seventh game in the second round men’s singles match between Nima Alamian and Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna, the contest being won by the reigning African champion by the very narrowest of margins 9-11, 12-10, 13-11, 8-11, 11-5, 11-13, 12-10). The engagement not only provided sporting entertainment, it was also a source of education.

“Thanks to the course conductor’s positive approach, she inspired the coaches to commit to producing good players.” Amir Bakhshi

All responded to the efforts of Christina Chee, significantly sharing knowledge during theory and practical lessons.

“Thank you to Mahmood Nazori, present at all time; thank you also to Mr. Peyman Abolhassani, the Iran Table Tennis Education and Training Director, even though unable to be present, he called to give his encouraging words. My appreciation is extended to all the coaches who travelled from far distance to attend. Also, I must not forget Miss Faeze Tabrizifar, for all the hospitality arrangements. My respectful thanks go to the Iran Table Tennis Federation staff for their assistance and co-operation during my stay in Tehran.” Christina Chee

A successful initiative, a fact reflected in the results; all passed the end of course evaluation. Most pertinently four members gained full marks.