After 8 session of the Frost Spin Table Tennis League the players are showing great improvement. Some players who joined the league are new to the sport and have little experience in tournaments or strong competition. With the diversity matches over 12 sessions in the last couple of months players have seen new types of play. Many did not have much experience in doubles but the team and random doubles has given the players more exposure to the doubles routine. Placement of the return for your partner proved to be evident as partners were out of position when the ball came back toward an empty court. Players with strong servers proved tough match ups frustrating some. Even requesting changes in the serve rotation for future doubles sessions.
The late season HardBat allowed lower skilled players in the sponge game their ability to play it much closer against the top skilled players. Without the sponge the top players could not "super loop" the ball with crazy spin. Some top players adapted by chopping and pick hitting more. And the handicap session also evened the table as the short game resulted in a boost of confidence to players who now were playing "ahead" rather than from "behind" in the score. This little mental twist gave players the comfort to "swing away".
And the team event forced players to play singles then a doubles match back to back. The doubles was often the deal breaker in the matchup. Some players have to adapt quickly.
Mid way through the season a skill evaluation rounds were held to see how players were progressing. The top B player was moved to the A division and the lower A player demoted to the B level. And then the top C player also was moved up to the more competitive B division. And the lowest B player was also dropped down to the C division to make the 2nd half more closely contended.
By playing once a week the players who show up consistently now are getting more comfortable and could handle some of the top players tricky serves better and the rallies are getting longer. Several players have invested in new paddles and show great enthusiasm during each session.
Regardless of your skill most are finding the weekly session a bit addictive. I tell players who are showing a passion and attending often that in order to improve they need to play outside the league nights. Some of use are playing as much as 4-5 times a week at schools, churches and clubs outside Anchorage. Listen to the veteran players and bend their ears for advise on footwork, strokes and strategy.