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Table of Contents

• Sporting Thoughts

• World News

• Training

  • How to Develop Great Touch Play

    • Coaches View

  • The Benefits of Multi-Ball Training

    • Player Profile

    • Drill Of The Week

    • Equipment

    • Video Of The Week

    • How Did We Do?

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    • Free Mobile App

 World News 

Results and Events around the world

World Table Tennis

International Table Tennis Federation

European Table Tennis Union

Table Tennis England

 Training 

Developing touch requires focused practice on control, finesse, and feel. Below are essential steps and drills to improve your touch play:

1. Mastering Ball Contact

The foundation of touch play lies in understanding and mastering the contact between the racket and the ball. To achieve this:

• Use soft hands and a relaxed grip when playing delicate shots.

• Focus on brushing the ball lightly rather than hitting it.

• Experiment with different angles and levels of racket tilt to better understand how they affect spin and trajectory.

Drill: Ball Control Basics

• Place a ball on your racket and practice balancing it by gently tilting the racket.

• Progress to bouncing the ball softly while maintaining consistent height.

• Finally, practice spinning the ball lightly while keeping it on the racket.

2. Short Game Precision

Short exchanges near the net are the heart of touch play. Developing consistency in these areas improves your ability to keep the ball low and controlled.

Drill: Short Push Exchanges

• Work with a partner to practice short pushes. The goal is to keep the ball low over the net and land it near the opponent’s side of the table.

• Focus on varying spin, from backspin-heavy pushes to lighter ones that test your opponent’s touch.

3. Serve and Receive Practice

Touch is essential in both serving and returning. Sharp serves with precise placement can gain easy points, while controlled receives can neutralize even the strongest serves.

Drill: Spin Variation Serves

• Practice serving with different spins (backspin, sidespin, topspin) but focus on maintaining tightness and precision.

• Alternate between long and short serves to improve placement control.

Drill: Receive Challenge

• Have a practice partner serve a variety of spins and focus on controlled returns such as flicks, short pushes, or banana flicks.

4. Flicking Technique

Flicking is an advanced touch technique used to attack short balls with control and spin.

Drill: Flick Progression

• Start with a partner feeding short no-spin balls. Practice the wrist motion and timing for a controlled flick.

• Gradually progress to flicking against slight backspin or sidespin.

5. Multi-Ball Training

Multi-ball drills are excellent for developing touch play because they provide consistent repetitions and variations.

Drill: Net Play Multi-Ball

• Have a coach or partner feed balls to your forehand and backhand near the net.

• Focus on executing precise short pushes, flicks, or drop shots.

• Increase the pace of the drill to simulate match conditions.

6. Match Play Simulation

Apply touch play strategies in practice matches. This helps integrate touch play into your overall game plan and builds confidence in real-game situations.

Drill: Touch-Only Matches

• Play practice matches where both players must emphasize touch play. Limit the use of power strokes to force reliance on finesse and precision.

Mindset for Touch Play

Touch play requires patience and focus. Developing a "feel" for the ball takes time, so it’s essential to:

• Stay calm under pressure.

• Visualize your shots before executing them.

• Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities.

Conclusion

Touch play is an invaluable skill that can transform your table tennis game. By mastering delicate shots, controlling the tempo, and enhancing your serve and receive game, you gain a significant edge over opponents. Incorporating the drills and techniques outlined above into your training routine will help you develop great touch play over time.

Remember, the journey to mastering touch is gradual but immensely rewarding. Keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy the process of refining this elegant aspect of table tennis. With consistent effort, your touch play will not only improve but also become a defining strength in your game.

 Coaches View 

Multi-ball training is one of the most effective and efficient ways to improve a player's skills in table tennis. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, incorporating multi-ball into your training schedule can offer numerous advantages.

Furthermore, learning how to deliver multi-ball effectively, so you can train with a partner, adds another layer of depth to your training. Here’s why both players and coaches should consider integrating multi-ball training into their routine and why players should master the skill of delivering multi-ball.

What is Multi-Ball Training?

Multi-ball training involves a coach or training partner feeding multiple balls in quick succession, allowing the player to execute various shots in a short amount of time.

This type of training can be tailored to focus on specific strokes, footwork patterns, or other aspects of a player's game. Instead of receiving a single ball, the player is given several balls in rapid succession, which helps to simulate the fast pace of actual match play.

The Benefits of Multi-Ball Training

1. Increased Repetition and Consistency

One of the main advantages of multi-ball training is the ability to repeat a specific stroke or drill multiple times in quick succession. In traditional training, a player may hit one ball, then wait for the next one to be fed. This slower pace can sometimes lead to a loss of focus or momentum. With multi-ball, the quick feeds keep the player in a constant rhythm, allowing for more repetitions of key techniques. The more a player practices a specific stroke, the more ingrained it becomes, leading to better consistency in matches.

2. Faster Reaction Times

Multi-ball training accelerates the pace of practice, which forces players to react quickly. This heightened intensity mimics match conditions where players must be ready for fast exchanges. By practicing with rapid ball feeds, players develop quicker reflexes and improve their overall reaction time. This is particularly beneficial for players who need to improve their ability to handle fast or unpredictable balls during a match.

3. Targeted Skill Development

With multi-ball training, coaches can target specific areas for improvement. For example, if a player struggles with their backhand loop, the coach can feed a series of backspin balls specifically designed to challenge that stroke. Similarly, a player can focus on footwork, fast counter-hitting, or serving practice, depending on their needs. This focus helps players develop the technical skills they need for specific situations in a match.

4. Improved Footwork and Movement

In multi-ball drills, players are often required to move around the table more than in standard drills. The quick succession of ball feeds demands faster footwork and positioning to ensure the player can maintain optimal balance and body positioning for each shot. This leads to improved mobility around the table and a stronger understanding of where to be for each type of shot.

5. Mental Focus and Adaptability

Multi-ball training requires a higher level of mental concentration. Players need to stay focused as the balls come in rapidly, forcing them to stay engaged and make quick decisions about which shots to play. This level of focus translates to match play, where maintaining concentration over long rallies can be crucial to success. Multi-ball also helps players adapt quickly to changing ball trajectories and spin, training them to adjust their stroke technique on the fly.

6. Enhanced Physical Conditioning

Because multi-ball drills involve a high volume of shots over a short period, they provide an excellent cardiovascular workout. The fast-paced nature of multi-ball training can help improve a player's stamina and endurance, ensuring they remain competitive throughout a match, especially during long rallies. Over time, this added physical conditioning enhances a player’s overall performance, particularly in long or intense competitions.

Why Learning to Deliver Multi-Ball Is a Game-Changer

While multi-ball training is extremely beneficial, it’s not just about being on the receiving end of the balls. Learning how to deliver multi-ball feeds is just as important, and here’s why:

1. More Flexibility in Training

When you learn how to deliver multi-ball, you give yourself the flexibility to train independently or with a partner. Being able to set up and deliver the balls means you can work on your own skills or help a training partner improve their game. This can make training more efficient and effective because both players can focus on specific areas that need improvement. By sharing the responsibility of delivering multi-ball, both players benefit from the drills, making the sessions more productive.

2. Better Understanding of the Game

Delivering multi-ball feeds helps players develop a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of the game. By feeding balls to a partner, players must pay close attention to ball placement, spin, and speed, which enhances their own ability to read and anticipate shots in a match. It also helps them learn how to create specific situations that challenge their training partner, which can be valuable in real match scenarios.

3. Enhanced Communication and Teamwork

Multi-ball training often involves working closely with a coach or training partner, requiring clear communication. Learning to deliver multi-ball effectively teaches players how to coordinate drills and maintain a steady rhythm. This not only improves teamwork but also builds a stronger relationship between players and coaches, ensuring that both parties are on the same page during training sessions.

4. Efficient Use of Time

Learning how to deliver multi-ball saves a lot of time in a training session. Rather than waiting for balls to be fed one by one, players can use multi-ball to get more repetitions in a shorter time frame. By mastering multi-ball feeding techniques, players can practice consistently without long pauses, making training sessions more efficient and productive.

5. Improved Precision and Control

Delivering multi-ball is also a skill that demands a high level of precision and control. The feeder must be able to place balls accurately and consistently to ensure that the player can practice specific strokes or movements. This adds another level of challenge to the training and enhances the ability to control the ball, which directly translates to improved match play.

Conclusion: Maximizing Training Potential

Multi-ball training is a powerful tool that offers numerous benefits, including improved repetition, faster reaction times, targeted skill development, and enhanced footwork. By learning how to deliver multi-ball, players can not only become more self-reliant in their training but also develop a deeper understanding of the game and improve their overall match play. Whether you are training with a coach or a partner, incorporating multi-ball drills into your schedule will significantly accelerate your progress and elevate your game to the next level.

For any player serious about improving, mastering the art of multi-ball is an essential skill that will pay dividends both in training and on the competition table.

 Player Profile 

• Name: Fan Zhendong (樊振东)

• Date of Birth: January 22, 1997

• Place of Birth: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China

• Height: 1.73 meters (5 feet 8 inches)

• Weight: Approximately 70 kilograms (154 pounds)

• Playing Hand: Right-handed

• Grip: Shakehand

Personal Background

Fan Zhendong grew up in Guangzhou and began playing table tennis at the age of five. His natural talent for the game was quickly recognized, leading to his recruitment into professional training systems in China. He has credited his success to a combination of relentless practice, a strong support system from family and coaches, and his love for the sport.

Hobbies and Interests

Off the table, Fan is known for his calm demeanor and disciplined lifestyle. He enjoys reading and spending time with family when his busy training and competition schedule allows. Fan has also expressed an interest in basketball and music as ways to relax and unwind.

Fan Base and Personality

Often referred to by fans as "Little Fatty" (小胖), a nickname he embraces with good humor, Fan is admired for his humility despite his significant achievements. He is seen as a role model for young athletes in China and around the world, demonstrating the values of perseverance and sportsmanship.

Philanthropy and Public Life

Fan participates in community activities and has been involved in campaigns to promote table tennis among youth in China. His popularity has also made him a sought-after figure for endorsements and public appearances, though he remains focused on his athletic career.

Fan Zhendong is not just a powerhouse in table tennis but also a beloved figure whose dedication and character continue to inspire countless fans globally.

Significant Titles

Olympic Games

• Gold Medal (Men’s Singles): Paris 2024.

• Gold Medal ( Men’s Team): Paris 2024

• Team Gold Medal: Tokyo 2020.

World Table Tennis Championships

• Singles Champion: 2021, 2023.

• Team Champion: Multiple times, contributing to China's dominance in team events (years include 2014, 2016, 2018, 2022).

Table Tennis World Cup

• Men’s Singles Champion: 2016, 2018, 2019.

• Team World Cup Champion: Several years, as part of the Chinese national team.

Asian Games

• Men’s Singles Champion: 2018.

• Team Champion: Multiple years (including 2014 and 2018).

• Mixed Doubles Gold Medal: 2018.

Asian Championships

• Men’s Singles Champion: Multiple titles.

• Team Champion: Multiple titles.

• Doubles and Mixed Doubles Champion: Several victories.

ITTF World Tour Titles

• Singles Titles: Over 20 World Tour singles titles, including the ITTF World Tour Grand Finals in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

• Doubles Titles: Numerous wins in men's doubles events.

Youth Championships

• World Junior Table Tennis Championships: Champion in singles and team events during his early career, showcasing his talent as a rising star.

 Training Drill Of The Week 

This training drill is called X’s & H’s.

It will help improve your lateral side to side movement , footwork and transition from BH to FH and back again.

It will also help with development of a solid down the line stroke on both FH & BH

Goal : To improve sideways movement and transition from BH to FH and back again. Plus improve down the line FH & BH strokes

Coaching points :

1. Set a target for the number of complete repetitions without missing

2. Stay relatively close to the table

3. Start with your weight distributed evenly on both your feet.

4. Take the ball at top/peak of bounce or just before on all strokes.

5. Use some topspin to help with controlling the ball on both FH & BH

6. When moving sideways use short movements to adjust getting in position for each stroke.

7. Focus on moving your feet quickly after each stroke.

8. Make sure you rotate your shoulders for FH strokes.

9. On FH make sure your weight has transferred more to your right leg/foot ( for right handed players) . This will enable you to push yourself back for the next BH

10. Maintain a low stance with knees bent at all times.

11. Keep your head at the same height and avoid bobbing up and down as you move from BH to FH.

12. Start slowly at a comfortable pace , the more repetitions you can complete the quicker your movement will improve . Increase the pace gradually.

13. Do this exercise for 3-5 mins depending on your fitness level then change roles with your training partner.

 Equipment 

The Joola Dynaryz Inferno is a cutting-edge table tennis rubber designed for offensive players who prioritize speed and spin in their game.

It features the innovative Kinetic Tension top sheet, which enhances speed and acceleration, making it highly effective for fast-paced rallies and dominating play from mid to long distances.

The rubber is paired with a 50° Hyper Bounce sponge, offering a powerful catapult effect while maintaining a surprising level of touch and control for strategic play.

Key Characteristics:

• Speed: Rated at 122, the Dynaryz Inferno is engineered for high-speed performance, enabling quick attacks and counter-rallies.

• Spin: With a spin rating of 117, it supports aggressive topspin shots and is well-suited for spin-heavy play styles.

• Control: Although its primary strengths are speed and spin, the rubber provides decent control, rated at 70, which complements its offensive potential.

• Surface: The Kinetic Tension surface ensures that players can generate consistent performance even in intense, distance-oriented rallies​.

This rubber is available in three colors—red, black, and purple—with sponge thickness options of 2.0mm and MAX+ for varied play preferences. It suits advanced players who enjoy a dynamic and powerful rubber that supports their offensive strategies. However, players focusing on control or all-around styles might find it less forgiving​.

Overall, the Joola Dynaryz Inferno is a high-performance choice for those looking to enhance their attacking prowess while retaining enough touch for precise play. 

Get yours here today : Joola Dynaryz Inferno

Video Of The Week 

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I hope you have enjoyed this weeks edition

Have a great week of table tennis!

See you next week

To your continuous improvement

Phil