The Hong Kong Table Tennis Association conducts classes for youngsters almost all year round. Coach Yu Kam-kai said beginners' classes were conducted on Hong Kong island as well as in the New Territories. 'There are four classes each week in both places and each class lasts about an hour. Our New Territory coach is Lau Yak-kin while Tong Kin-wah is in charge of classes on the Hong Kong side. 'We hold classes at the Kowloon Tong Indoor Games Hall from 2 pm to 4 pm where there are 10 classes for youngsters between the ages of six and nine. We also have intermediate courses for more advanced players who have already mastered the basic game. Each training session lasts about two hours,' she said. 'Our busiest time is during the summer holidays. 'We also hold training courses for players at intermediate level. 'Next month we will have a new course for beginners.' Players are taught the basics of the game; how to attack and defend and basic steps on how to improve their games. 'Our players are put into levels of expertise. The most basic level is the first stage. The most advanced players are in the fifth stage and are good enough to be put in our Hang Seng Bank development squad. These players are usually between 10 and 11. 'The best young players are usually put in the Hong Kong youth squad and train at the Hong Kong Sports Institute four times a week,' she said.
