Significance of a tournament

Ken Matsuno Asked 2 years ago

Hi  coach,

There will be a tournament in a different city nearby soon. My  current USATT rating is 1165. So far 74 people are supposed to participate in it.

If I participate in the tournament, I will be placed in the group whose rating is between 1100 and 1600.

Some of the players in my table tennis club will participate in the same tournament and they will be in the same group (I have never beat them).

Knowing that I will probably not win any matches, do you think it is still meaningful to participate in it?

Do you think it is better to participate in a tournament like this in the future after I improve my skills a little bit and boost my confidence?

Alois Rosario Answered 2 years ago

Hi Ken,

I think it would be a good experience to play in the tournament as long as you understand the level that you are playing.  Often these types of tournaments open your eyes to what is possible by having the chance to watch other players.

As long as you manage your expectations you should have a positive experience.