There really is something for everyone in this issue, not just coaches. Here's a few highlights:

• Larry Hodges argues that ratings can be a cancer on junior table tennis, and proposes some solutions to the problem. Actually, Larry's arguments apply just as well to anyone obsessed with protecting their rating at the expense of competing in events at their own level.
• Donn Olsen introduces the idea of unlearning when training, and discusses how use unlearning effectively. I hadn't thought much about this aspect of training before, so I'm going to put this to good use in my own training sessions.
• The idea of using targets in training young players is mentioned by Steve Hochman, a technique which is useful for players of all ages.

And yes, there's more good information inside the newsletter to look forward to. So what are you waiting for? Check it out!

Intrigued by his argument, I did a little research, and you can find my thoughts on whether the edge of the table tennis table is out of bounds here.

Is this true? Is it really OK to be a basement ping-pong player? Check out my thoughts and then feel free to add your opinion to the article.

Having analyzed world class play extensively, in his first article on returning serve (Note: this is a link to a .pdf file) Brett recommends copying the short backspin return technique of Chinese star Ma Lin, and the low bouncing backhand sidespin flick German heroes Timo Boll and Dimitrij Ovtcharov. Brett also outlines his method of teaching the short backspin return technique.

In his second article, Brett studies the importance of the short but fast serve, discusses why it is important, and suggests how best to practice this important stroke.

While Brett is discussing advanced techniques, players of all levels would benefit from reading Brett's thoughtful analysis of serve and serve return in the modern game.