Formby table tennis star Yameen Al-Dahiri is on course to take part in this summer’s Commonwealth Games.
He is hoping to represent Wales in Birmingham, aiming to be part of their men’s table tennis team.
Al-Dahiri is eligible for the Welsh team as the 20-year-old was born in Bridgend in South Wales.
His focus on training to achieve this goal comes as he also completes his final year of university studies.
“I’m training three to four times a week at the University of Nottingham,” he said.
“We have some amazing coaches here with great facilities.
“I also have the chance to enter tournaments every weekend to keep getting consistent results and keep pushing my name out there.”
Al-Dahiri has represented Wales since he was 14, and ranked number one in the U18 age bracket.
He said: “I got involved at school through a tennis coach who recommended I go down to the table tennis club in my first year of high school.
“And I just had so much fun with it!
“More opportunities came along and I was playing two or three times a week at Formby table tennis centre.
“Eventually, I ended up competing around the country and started winning tournaments.
“I attracted attention from a few coaches and my Welsh birth allowed me to train and play within their setup where I really thrived, but it all started from the opportunities provided at school.”
Youngsters need opportunity
Al-Dahiri highlighted the importance of providing young people with opportunities to get involved with clubs.
He added: “As of now, there aren’t really any full time dedicated centres for table tennis.
“None where anyone can turn up and play.
“It’s very much reliant on schools and teachers to help get young people involved.
“Participation in organised sports is vital at young age, no matter the sport or level I think every kid should look at joining at least one team.”
Continuing on the coaches and clubs in Liverpool, Yameen said: “I think that’s something Liverpool really prides itself on.
“There are lots of clubs for lots of different sports. All with amazing coaches who care about their players and want the best for them.
“They develop skills and attitude better than any city I have seen before.”
(Images courtesy of Yameen Al-Dahiri and family)
