Maltese junior in Romania training camp

Table tennis player Steve Bugeja recently took part in a training camp for juniors, 'Eurokids', organised annually by the European Table Tennis Union.

Eurokids groups together promising players for a week of intensive training guided by professional coaches.

For Bugeja, the trip to Romania was an opportunity to learn more about the latest training methods in his age group - 13 years.

Bugeja was accompanied by Malta Table Tennis Association vice-president Alex Anastasi. He was impressed by what he saw.

"The level of play and practice sessions were really high. The schedule was tight and included training outdoors and also at the practice hall," Anastasi said.

"The junior players also watched tuition videos with top international players in action. They were able to visualise the best techniques.

"This experience will help youngsters to understand better what it takes to obtain success."

In Romania, there were players from 15 countries involved in the training camp.

Jessica Pace, another talented player at the MTTA, was also eligible to participate but was not in a position to make the trip this time.