Interview with the Bengal Table Tennis Tiger: Soumajit Ghosh

An 18 year old Soumyajit Ghosh was ecstatic after booking his place in the London Olympics. The paddler, who hails from the city of Siliguri, defeated Amal Raj 4-0 (12-10, 11-9, 11-6, 11-7) in his last game to finish top of the South Asian region and claim the quota place, thereby becoming the youngest player to do so. He previously won the world junior circuit in the year 2010. He also finished as runner-up 4 times in international Under-15 tournaments. Below is an interview of the latest table tennis sensation.

Q. You are the only male paddler till now (this year) who has booked a berth in the Olympics. You must be overwhelmed?

Yes, I am very happy about that. All the hard work which I had put in for years has finally paid off. It’s a great honour for me to be representing my country at the highest level.

Q. How has this whole journey been like?

It was really tough, but I was positive that things would turn out fine and so they did. I always had the self belief that I could go the distance and I guess that’s what helped me to reach here. There have been ups and downs, but that’s how it is in any sport. My job was to work hard and give it my all, which I did.

Q. Tell us about your training routine.

These days, I am focusing more on the physical aspects of the game as that is one area most of the Indians falter in. I am constantly trying to improve my stamina, endurance and strength levels. I have been working on improving my overall techniques as well. It’s 5 hours of practice daily, except Sundays.

Q. With what expectations will you be going to London?

Well I have set realistic goals for myself and will be aiming to give my 100 percent there. Competing in the Olympics is like a dream come true for me and I will be going there with a very positive mind frame and will focus on one match at a time.

Q.What or who have been your sources of motivation?

My parents, coaches, TTFI, ITTF have supported me tremendously throughout. I am thankful to them to have always stood by me.

Q. Table Tennis is still not a very popular game in India. What steps do you think should be taken to boost the popularity of the game?

In my city, Siliguri, Table Tennis is very popular because it is a very small city and there are many good players in the city. I think the game requires good marketing and all the players should keep practising hard and keep performing at the International stage which will help to bring the focus on the game as well as the players.

Q. Prior to the Olympics, which other tournaments will you be competing in?

We will play the Swedish Open followed by the Morocco Open and a few more tournaments after that, before the Olympics get rolling.