By: Theophilus Sampah
Ghana’s women’s national table tennis team, the Black Loopers, have received a morale-boosting donation as they intensify preparations for the 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships in London.
Currently training at the Accra Sports Stadium hall, the team was presented with an undisclosed amount of money for each player, along with packs of bottled water and soft drinks by the leadership of the Security Services Table Tennis Association (SESTTA).
The gesture is aimed at supporting the players’ welfare and enhancing their readiness for the global tournament.
President of SESTTA, Chief Petty Officer Class 1 (CPO1) David Carboo, explained that the initiative is meant to inspire confidence and motivate the athletes as they prepare to represent Ghana on the world stage.
“We believe in these ladies. This is our way of showing that we stand behind them. We are confident they will make Ghana proud,” he said.
The Technical Director of the Ghana Table Tennis Association, Charles Tachie-Menson, welcomed the support and called on corporate Ghana and individuals to contribute towards the team’s preparations.
“This support is commendable, but more is needed. We urge corporate bodies and individuals to come on board to ensure the team is fully prepared,” he noted.
Led by captain Cynthia Kwabi, the squad—comprising Eva Adom-Amankwah, Joanita Borteye, Augustina Baidoo, and Emerald Bortey—expressed appreciation for the donation. The players say the gesture has strengthened their determination to perform well and make the nation proud.
Ghana has been drawn into a challenging group alongside top teams such as Puerto Rico and Austria, setting the stage for a highly competitive outing.
The team’s qualification also comes at a historic moment. The 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships, scheduled from April 28 to May 10 in London, will mark the 100th anniversary of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), adding extra significance to the Black Loopers’ participation.
As preparations continue, the players remain focused and motivated, carrying with them the hopes of a nation eager to see them shine on one of table tennis’ biggest stages.
