Siy siblings back 15 studes' table tennis training

MANILA, Philippines - Table tennis siblings Kevin and Bettina Siy of British School Manila will support 15 selected students when they hold the 2012 Table Tennis Achievers clinic May 24-26 at the Ateneo Table Tennis Training Center in Quezon City.

Kevin and Bettina expressed their desire to help students aged 12 and below achieve their dreams of becoming table tennis achievers someday.

“Our country is blessed with many young talented athletes who excel in sports but many of those who show great talent and passion have no means to acquire the proper training and equipment,” said Kevin, who had won a gold for Xavier School in a PAYA tournament.  

“The potential of these kids are being limited by the lack of correct uniform, equipment and most of all, correct fundamental skills which this clinic will provide,” added Kevin.

The summer clinic is supported by Ateneo president Jett Villarin, Ateneo athletics director Ricky Palou, and Table Tennis Association of the Philippines (TATAP), headed by Ting Ledesma.

Other sponsors are Lee Jeans, Kenny Rogers Roasters and Joola.  

From the different public schools, with two guest students from Bukidnon, Ateneo program head and senior head coach Floyd Lobaton will select 15 students, who will receive six free training sessions, table tennis racquets, table tennis shoes, uniforms, and travel and food allowances.

Former national team member and three-time national junior champion Mario Breiva and son Michael Breiva, also a five-time Palarong Pambansa champion, will serve as trainers.

“We are excited with this project because we hope that by supporting indigent kids who share the same passion, doors will open up for them, perhaps, through college scholarships and future employment opportunities,” said Bettina.