ESTCOURT KZN: Ashlyn aims to ace table tennis

While Covid-19 restrictions and lockdown periods may have caused some sportsmen and -women to pause for breath, Ashlyn Ramthol is still keeping his table tennis game strong.

The 13-year-old Drakensberg Secondary School learner is a member of the Estcourt Table Tennis Club and continues to put in practice time at home, playing against family members.

Ashlyn was raised in Estcourt and completed his primary school years at Estcourt Christian Academy Pre-Primary and Forderville Primary schools.

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Sport has always been a driving force in his life, and his hobbies include cricket and volleyball.
The young man was first introduced to table tennis at the age of 11 when a cousin from Pietermaritzburg began playing at league level.

“I was attracted to the game by the concentration needed and by the way the game was played,” he explained.

During 2019, Ashlyn joined the local table tennis club and since then has been sharpening his skills.

“One of my highlights is that I have made huge improvements in my playing capabilities and my techniques, which has enabled me to be more competitive with the junior and senior players. During the Covid-19 period, I have continued playing competitively with my family members,” said Ashlyn.

He says that playing table tennis has kept him physically and mentally fit, as well as helped him focus, especially when in the midst of a game. Being part of a club has also boosted Ashlyn’s confidence.

“I enjoy the feeling of belonging to a club, participating in tournaments, the afternoon coaching from senior members, and forming part of the social structure. Being a club member has strengthened my game physically, knowing where and how to hit the ball, and it has also developed my techniques,” explains Ashlyn.

What is his goal for his table tennis career?

“My dream for the future is to get enough training and to start playing competitively in Estcourt. If I practice enough, I want to play countrywide. My wish would be to enter the table tennis championships before I end my schooling career,” said the young man.

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