(by Rachel Wang)

While most leagues have a minimum rating requirement, this one has a rating CAP. Last Friday (1/10), the Carolina International Table Tennis Academy commenced the first-ever 900-rated and below league with Table Tennis Dreams, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Designed for beginners, the CITTA Dreams League is made to encourage participation in the sport and to give kids a chance to compete against other kids of similar level – a perfect opportunity to build friendships as well!

CITTA owner and head coach Di Yu and TTD president Rachel Wang believe that the best way for players to improve is through competition experience and reflection. They hope that the CITTA Dreams League will teach players how to navigate performance anxiety during competitions and help them evaluate their strengths and weaknesses for future training. Even throughout just the first league date, there was obvious improvement in the kids’ fighting spirit. Seeing some more experienced players striving for each point, even a few shy, reserved kids were urged out of their shells, yelling their first “cho le!” – it was a truly inspiring sight to see. Di and Rachel are confident that by the end of the 8-week long league, the kids will be one step closer to mastering high-pressure situations, game strategy, and of course, stadiumt.

In addition to her leadership at CITTA, Rachel Wang recently shared a valuable training video that has resonated with players and coaches alike. The video, which focuses on key techniques for improving footwork and overall game strategy, offers insightful tips for beginners and advanced players.

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