KTTA IN CHARM OFFENSIVE: Association out to revamp inactive branches

Kenya Table Tennis Association (KTTA) has initiated a move to revamp its branches which have been inactive for years due to wrangles.

The association, preparing to conduct its trials for the forthcoming All Africa Games set for Congo Brazzaville (September 4–19), has embarked on an offensive to tap and groom young talent across the country. The association has started giving out equipment to its branches.

KTTA Chairman, Andrew Mudibo, yesterday presented three tennis tables worth Sh160,000 to Eastern branch, the association’s youngest member. The equipment will be centered at Mwala Secondary School. Nyanza, which is the cradle of table tennis, will follow then Kitale later in the year. “We are in a process of restructuring the Association and at the same time promoting the game among the youth. And the only way to achieve this is by equipping our members by giving them equipment such as tables, nets and rackets with little funds,” said Mudibo when he handed over the items to Eastern branch yesterday. The branch Secretary Christopher Mutungi and treasurer General George Muiya received the equipment at Nairobi Sports House.

The Association is calling on the government to offer equal support to to all sports disciplines.

Mudibo added: “The government has neglected many sports. We will be glad to get the same support as other sports like football and athletics.”

KTTA will conduct trials on June 28-29 in Nairobi where it will select eight players to the All Africa Games which will also be a qualifier for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics next year.

“We are sending eight players, four female and four male. We will also select two juniors (under 17 years) and two senior players. We are blending young and experienced players to further develop of table tennis,” Mudibo said.

Meanwhile, the veteran table tennis player Anthony Mathenge will be playing in his last trial before retiring to concentrate on coaching.

 At the same time Kayole Queens Basketball team which comprises of players under 15 years from under privileged received balls and uniforms worth Sh50,000 from Nairobi Sports House.