TABLE TENNIS
PONTYPRIDD table tennis ace Ryan Jenkins is looking forward to leading the Welsh team in this month’s world championships in Dusseldorf.
The multi-times Welsh singles champion has had a remarkable playing career which has seen him travel the world.
But he is 39 now, and his role in Germany will be as national coach to the Welsh team.
With his vast experience of domestic and international competition, the team of Daniel O’Connell and Charlotte Carey, both from Ebbw Vale, Chloe Thomas from Tredegar and Callum Evans from Tonyrefail will be in good hands.
Jenkins says he is confident the players will perform well, but acknowledges that they will need to be at their best against strong opposition if they are to move up the world rankings.
“Welsh players often need to play above their normal levels when competing on the biggest stage,” he said.
“At the world championships, it different.”
Jenkins wants to see his players showing plenty of fighting spirit in Düsseldorf. will be no
He said: “Welsh people are known for their fight and passion, and that will be evident in Germany as Wales fight for success on the biggest stage possible.”
The championships, with the Chinese again expected to dominate, start in Dusseldorf on Monday, May 29.