World-Class Coaching, World-Class Standards
Led by a former World No. 1 and Olympic gold medallist, the Weihai training camp provided a world-class environment where players are held to the highest standards. Chinese coaches demand:
- Elite physical fitness
- Agility and sharp technical skill
- Relentless mental focus
- Total commitment from start to finish
Despite the intensity, our players embraced the challenge head-on.
From Shock to Strength: A Tale of Two Weeks
The first week was a steep learning curve. Our students faced long training days, unfamiliar routines, and world-class opponents. Muscle fatigue and tough matches tested their resilience, with only about 5% of matches won in the opening round of competition.
By the second week, however, our players had settled into the rhythm of camp life—training, eating, resting, and recovering with growing discipline and confidence.
Inside the Training Routine
Each day was built around a structure that prioritised focus and skill development:
- Structured warm-ups and cool-downs
- Targeted technical drills, often repeated to perfection
- Multi-ball exercises to enhance precision and reaction time
The emphasis on repetition and fine detail—hallmarks of the Chinese training system—began to pay off.
Competition Highlights
In the second week, students took part in two competitive events:
- Mixed Team Event
Teams combined London Academy and Weihai players, building a sense of unity and collaboration. Despite language differences, the students coached and encouraged one another throughout. - Singles Tournament
A rematch of the week one singles event, this time the results told a different story. Several students posted even win-loss records, a remarkable improvement given the level of competition.
Reflections & Thanks
The final day was filled with gratitude and celebration. Our students expressed thanks to the Weihai coaches, who praised their effort, resilience, and growth. The transformation in attitude, performance, and understanding of what it takes to succeed at the top level was clear for all to see.
Thank You to Our Hosts
We extend our deepest thanks to the Weihai Table Tennis Centre for their incredible hospitality—from airport pickups to five-star accommodation and elite training facilities. Their warm welcome and generous support made this an unforgettable experience for everyone.
A Final Thank You
Thank you to London Academy for making this experience possible. It was an amazing journey—full of challenge, development, and inspiration—and one our students will remember for years to come.