Italy’s Massimo Costantini is a well-respected figure in the world of table tennis, with a wealth of experience coaching national teams around the globe. As the head coach of the Indian men’s and women’s table tennis teams at the Paris Olympics, Costantini believes that Indian table tennis has the potential to be among the world’s top 4. In an interview with The Hindu, he expressed his confidence in India’s ability to achieve this goal, citing the country’s supportive system, talented players, and numerous training academies as key factors in its success.
One of the standout players in Indian table tennis is Sharath Kamal, who has announced that the Paris Olympics will be his last. Costantini praised Kamal as an institution for Indian table tennis, highlighting his wisdom and experience as invaluable assets to the team. Having worked closely with Kamal in the past, Costantini expressed his gratitude for the player’s contributions and the lessons he has learned from him.
Costantini also spoke highly of the Ultimate Table Tennis League (UTT) as a platform for players to showcase their skills and develop their game. He noted the positive impact of the league on players, citing the competitive atmosphere, high level of competition, and presence of international players and coaches as key factors in its success. Costantini emphasized the importance of playing under pressure in helping players grow and improve, noting that he has seen a noticeable change in players‘ attitudes and ambitions while competing in the league.
Throughout his coaching career, Costantini’s philosophy has evolved to prioritize the player at the center of the coaching process. He emphasized the importance of identifying and nurturing the potential of each player, rather than focusing solely on the coach’s role in shaping their performance. By putting the player first and working collaboratively to find ways to enhance their game, Costantini believes that players can achieve their full potential and excel on the international stage.
In conclusion, Costantini’s passion for table tennis and dedication to developing the sport in India is evident in his words and actions. With his wealth of experience and innovative coaching approach, he is poised to lead Indian table tennis to new heights and help players reach their full potential on the world stage.