Table Tennis ‘Our Life’
Harvi Yee thought being married and looking after two beautiful daughters would be what she will be doing all her life.
But her life started right then.
She started playing table tennis at 27 years old and it has become her life now.
Turning 41 tomorrow, the Rabi native has grown to love this game. It is a big part of the Yee family. She remains as one of Fiji’s top four female players.
She is currently involved in the development of table tennis. She runs coaching clinics in primary and secondary schools, special schools, organisations and at the National Table Tennis centre. Besides being a development officer and coach, she assists in the communications and management of Team Fiji in local, regional and international championships.
She has been working for the Fiji Table Tennis Association for the past eight years.
Yee holds a Level 1 Oceania coaching certificate from the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). She is also a coach for Para Table Tennis.
The mother of two also assists in coaching her daughters, Sally and Grace Yee.
Both are national reps and are vying for an Olympic spot for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games next year in July.
“Sports bring me closer to my daughters who play the same sport,” she said.
“I am so proud of them becoming ambassadors of the sport, best friends and we train and travel together,” she added.
“Our connection and bonding is very strong and as well as my family. This sport is part of our daily lives.”
The experienced coach said table tennis has not only taught her life lessons but it is also a stress reliever.
“I started late as a player, it was after I got married and had my two daughters,” she said.
“The good thing about this sport, it is never too late to learn or play. “You pick up your table tennis bat, start hitting a few balls and for a couple of hours you forget all about your worries.
“The sport teaches me a lot through working with people and people with different disabilities.” Yee added.
The best thing she loves about her work is being able to share her experience and knowledge to those who are keen to learn. Encouraging young women in sports teaches her the value of hard work.
“Don’t look down at yourself as a woman, you can do anything, it is achievable through commitment and sacrifice,” Yee said.
“I became a teammate and leader who earned respect and empowered others.
“I made lasting friendships with other sports coaches and players locally and around the world.
“And I certainly wouldn’t be in the position I’m in without them.
“My whole family plays this sport and they are so passionate about it.”