Table tennis

Table tennis is one of the most accessible and, at the same time, most useful sports for a schoolchild. It requires no special fitness to start, yet within a few months it noticeably improves reaction, attention and coordination. It can be played all year round whatever the weather, and any child can learn to hold a bat.

At Profi School the club is open to students from grade 1 to grade 11. Beginners and experienced players train in separate groups, so nobody is bored and nobody is left behind.

What children learn

Training moves from basic technique to game tactics, step by step.

• Grip, stance and correct footwork at the table.
• Basic strokes: forehand and backhand drive, chop and block.
• Serves: technique, spin and the ability to vary a serve.
• Rally tactics: how to build an attack, keep the ball in play and read the opponent.
• Rules and scoring: official rules, umpiring and conduct at a tournament.

How a session runs

A session starts with a warm-up and reaction drills, then technique work — first at the table with the coach or off a partner's feed, then in pairs. The second half is almost always play: free rallies, mini-tournaments and knockout games.

This format works: the child does not get bored by repetition, and technique is consolidated in real play rather than only in drills.

Tournaments

Several times a year we run in-school tournaments by age group, with a draw and proper umpiring. They give children something to prepare for and a chance to learn how to lose with dignity. The most prepared students travel to city competitions.

A tournament is an important part of learning: it shows a child that training leads to results, and teaches composure when the score is against them.

What table tennis gives

The main benefit is reaction speed and concentration. The ball travels fast, decisions are made in fractions of a second, and the brain gets used to working in that mode. Teachers and parents often notice that children become more attentive in lessons too.

Second is coordination and eye work. Constantly tracking a fast-moving object trains the eye muscles, which is especially valuable for children who spend a lot of time in front of a screen.

Third is character. Table tennis teaches you to hold your pace, not to panic when behind on points and to respect an opponent regardless of the result.

Why table tennis at Profi School

The tables are in the school and training starts right after lessons — there is nowhere to travel to. Bats and balls are provided; nothing needs to be bought in advance, and your child only needs sportswear and indoor shoes.

Classes are included in the tuition fee. Groups are formed by age and level, and the coach sets tasks so that a beginner settles in quickly while an experienced player keeps improving.

Come to a free trial session — your child will play their first rally in the very first practice.