Rules against a disabled athlete

Jasper Low Asked 4 months ago

Hi Alois, there's a team tournament coming up in april that I'm participating in that is quite inclusive, meaning that disabled players are allowed to play alongside able-bodied players as teammates. I heard a lot of concerns from my teammates about their past experiences when playing against them (disabled players always has 5 point lead every game, not allowed to serve wide nor short, and disabled players tend to have long pimples, which they struggle with). Against such opponents, how should I play while serving fairly all the time?

Alois Rosario Answered 3 months ago

Hi Jasper,

It's great to hear about your participation in an inclusive team tournament. These events are fantastic for promoting diversity in table tennis. Let’s address your concerns one at a time.

Firstly, the rules you mentioned, such as the 5-point lead and restrictions on serving, might be specific to your tournament they are not official rules. Normally, in official para table tennis competitions, the rules are the same regarding scoring.  When there is a player in a wheelchair then the serve needs to leave the end line rather than the side line if it was allowed to continue.  The ball also isn't allowed to move back towards the net.

Regarding playing against athletes who use long pimples: this can indeed be challenging if you're not accustomed to it. Long pimples affect the spin and speed of the ball differently compared to smoother rubbers. Here are a few tips:

• Adjust your spin: When playing against long pimples, your usual spins won't have the same effect. For instance, if you play a heavy topspin, the ball might come back with backspin. Be prepared to adjust your strokes accordingly.
• Control the pace: Players using long pimples often rely on the pace from their opponent. Try to vary the speed of your shots; sometimes slower, more controlled shots can be more effective than fast attacks.
• Placement: Even if there are restrictions on serving wide or short, you can still use clever placement in your rallies. Aim to place the ball in difficult positions for your opponent to reach comfortably.
• Practice and patience: Like any other match, the key is preparation. Try to practice with other players who use long pimples. This exposure will help you understand the dynamics of the ball better and increase your comfort level during matches.

Enjoy the experience.