Founded in October 2024, the Phan Boi Chau Secondary School Table Tennis Club now has more than 20 active members and two well-equipped tables set up on school grounds. The club operates daily, from morning to night, including weekends.
“We are open every day, only closing when there are no players,” said Principal Truong Tat Manh, who also serves as the club’s head. Despite not being a physical education teacher or professional athlete, Mr. Manh’s enthusiasm for the sport has inspired students and local residents alike to join.
Starting with just five players, the club has steadily grown as more parents encouraged their children to participate. Table tennis’ accessibility and indoor-friendly nature have made it a popular choice among students from grades one through nine.
To maintain motivation, the club hosts internal tournaments every two to three months and encourages participation in outside competitions. At the 1st PJICO Cup Table Tennis Tournament for Youth and Children in August 2025, members won one silver and one bronze medal.
The club currently has four instructors, teachers from the school, and operates entirely on community contributions. Equipment, uniforms, and facilities have been donated by benefactors, businesses, and parents.
“All facilities, from tables to balls, come from sponsors,” Mr. Manh said. Initially, players trained in makeshift spaces, but the club now enjoys a roofed, tiled practice area suitable for regular sessions.
Each member receives free lessons and pays only 25,000 VND (about USD 1) per month for practice balls, a symbolic fee promoting responsibility. “This is a non-profit club. We just want to offer students a place to play, train, and grow,” he added.
With over two decades of experience in table tennis, Mr. Manh views the club as a way to steer children away from electronic distractions and nurture discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Students say the club has helped them develop healthier habits. “I enjoy practicing here. Competing at the provincial level motivated me to train harder,” said Le Hai Ngoc, a member. Another student, Hoang Duc Nguyen, shared: “This sport helps me spend less time gaming. My family fully supports me”.
Parents also praise the initiative. “Since joining, my children have become more focused and passionate. I hope the club continues to grow,” said Le Anh Kieu, a parent from Lap Thanh hamlet.
Backed by dedicated teachers and strong community support, the Phan Boi Chau Secondary School Table Tennis Club is emerging as a model for school-based sports programs in rural Vietnam, fostering not only athletic talent but also well-rounded, active young citizens.
