Eliminators Club builds champions of tomorrow
The Eliminators Table Tennis Club (ETTC) was founded in 2004 by five members: the late Richard Saunderson, Melanky Farmer, Peter Kayser, alongside coach Theodore Beukes and Rodger Beukes.
The club is a community-based organisation dedicated to developing table tennis in the country, with a strong focus on supporting young players from disadvantaged backgrounds.
ETTC operates on Saturdays from 09:00 to 15:00 in Windhoek and Ondangwa, with three active training groups in Windhoek.
Under the guidance of coach Theodore Beukes, the club trains learners aged seven to 16 from various schools, particularly those without access to table tennis facilities.
Training is currently limited to Saturdays due to financial constraints and the coach’s full-time commitments.
Beukes emphasised that the club’s mission extends beyond the sport itself.
“Our goal is to grow table tennis in Namibia, keep learners off the streets, and instil discipline while making the sport fun and engaging,” he said.
The club has faced significant setbacks over the years, including disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which resulted in a decline in membership and a period of inactivity. The loss of several founding members has also impacted leadership and continuity.
Producing national team players
Despite these challenges, ETTC continues to nurture talent. Two junior players, Karolina Shigwedha and Justina Namupolo, have earned selection to the U15 national junior women’s team.
They have represented the country at regional and continental events, including the Africa Youth Games held in Botswana in 2024.
Their achievements highlight the club’s impact, despite operating with limited resources. Players often rely on second-hand equipment and do not have a permanent training venue, placing them at a disadvantage compared to better-resourced clubs.
“We don’t have everything we need, but we make the most of what we have,” said one club member.
The club currently consists of 13 members, including one senior member who serves as both coach and manager and 12 junior players aged between 10 and 15. Most come from communities where table tennis is not widely played.
Looking ahead, ETTC aims to develop players for national and regional competitions while creating scholarship opportunities for talented youth. The club also hosts open Saturday sessions to encourage broader community participation.
“We want to build something that lasts for generations. You can throw a bucket of water on a rock and nothing happens. But if a drop of water falls on it every day, it creates a hole. Consistency beats intensity,” said Beukes.
Despite ongoing challenges, ETTC remains committed to youth development and the growth of table tennis in Namibia.
