A group of promising youngsters thoroughly enjoyed the one-day training camp organised by pbctabletennis coaching centre at St Aloysius Pavillion.

The camp was limited to 16 players to ensure that each participant would have ample time to receive instructions and individual attention from coach Peter Borg Cardona teaching the players many useful techniques, game strategies, and practical skills.

Malta champion 17-year-old Daniel Bajada, who is currently registered with Bari Tennistavolo ASD Fiaccola and plays in the Italian Serie B1 Lega Nazionale, joined the camp and helped out in the coaching development of the youngsters. Daniel acted as a valuable training partner and his presence motivated all the players to try even harder throughout the day.

The camp ended with a competition which saw the Sultana brothers triumph. In the singles event, Julian Sultana was in high spirit and determined to hold on to his gold which he won in 2009. The semi finals saw Julian play James Zammit but Julian had too much and claimed the game 3-0.

In the other semi final, James Camilleri kept his fighting spirit against the up and coming youngster Gabriel Buhagiar to win 3-0 with close scores 11-9, 11-9, 11-9.

In the final Julian was not planning on letting his opponent have a chance: he was consistent and firm, finishing the match 3-0 and took the title for the second consecutive year.

The final of the plate event was contested between Simon Sultana and Reuben Sciberras. Simon took the first game 11-9 but Reuben reversed the next set 7-11. Simon took the lead again winning the third convincingly 11-6. The fourth set was close but Simon clinched the set 11-9 to claim his first ever gold.

Bronze medals were awarded to Gabriel Buhagiar, James Zammit, Gary Azzopardi and Luke Falzon. Overall the camp was a definite success, and a big well done went to all the players who took part.

Anyone interested in joining the weekly sessions are asked to email [email protected] or visit the website www.pbctabletennis.com.