Table tennis launches High Performance Development Programme

The Table Tennis National pool with Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa and President of the TTASL State Minister Kanaka Herath   

By Susil Premalal

The Table Tennis Association of Sri Lanka (TTASL) has selected eight players – four men and four women – for its High Performance Development Programme for a period of two years.   

Table Tennis is one of the sports picked by the National Sports Council (NSC) and High Performance Talent Committee headed by Mahela Jayawardene in a bid to improve players’ performance.   

The aim is to win medals in international events, specifically with a target of achieving success at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. On the instructions of Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa, a sum of Rs. 35 million was allocated under this programme with the intention of enhancing and encouraging the talents of table tennis players. The allocated amount will meet the cost associated with training and coaching, equipment, competing in other international events and upkeep of players, till its conclusion.   

The agreement was signed on behalf of the Ministry of Youth and Sports by the Director General of the Department of Sports Development Amal Edirisuriya and the President of the TTASL State Minister Kanaka Herath.   

Rajapaksa graced the occasion to witness this historic event and had a chat with all the players once the formalities concluded. 

 
In another development towards a better future for table tennis, the association will be getting its own indoor stadium in Bandaragama along with a pool and other facilities. The complex is to be leased to the TTASL and this matter was made possible following discussions between Herath and Minister Rajapaksa. Once the renovation works are completed, the High Performance players will train in this premises which will also be the new headquarters of the TTASL. Arrangements to start the construction of a hostel facility is also finalized and the signing ceremony will be held soon.   

Meanwhile, a separate High Performance Development Committee has been appointed within the TTASL and is headed by one of its Vice Presidents Sadisi Peiris.