Another reason why I want to improve, which may sound a little corny, is that I really love representing Australia. I was fortunate enough to do this at junior level, and have had a small taste at senior level when playing in the national second team this year. For me, there is nothing quite like walking out to play with the Australian shirt on my back, and giving my all for my country. I fully understand that it is a massive privilege to play for your country and that only a very small percentage of people have the opportunity to do so. Therefore, I want to take that opportunity with both hands.
Being able to travel the world, meet many great new people, and experience different cultures is another big incentive to improve. So far, I have been lucky enough to travel to 7 countries whilst competing, and by the time I go back to Australia after this season ends that number would have risen to 10. I have been able to make many good friends from all over the world, and I have experienced different cultures in Asia, Europe, and the South Pacific.
The final reason that is driving me to improve is simply due to the fact that I have started to walk down the table tennis path, and now I must finish it. Those of you familiar with the work of world renowned American life coach Anthony Robbins would have heard of 'The Arm Chair Test'. This basically is when you picture yourself when you are much older and you are sitting in your chair and thinking of the things you have achieved in your life. When I am old, I do not want to sit there thinking that I could have done this, I could have done that. I want to say I did this, I did that. This is a very powerful motivational tool.
So, although there can be many problems associated with playing overseas, and many long and lonely times when you are in another country, I recommend that if you have the opportunity to give it a shot. There are many advantages and positive experiences to be had, and if you know what you are aiming to achieve, you will surely improve your level and understanding of table tennis.
Train hard.
Scott Houston.
