London, ON - The Western Mustangs Table Tennis team has been making waves in university table tennis competitions recently. 

Former Head Coach Ann Shiao,saw remarkable success in her recent three seasons as coach and shared her insights into their strategies, coaching philosophy, and standout moments from recent seasons. "In the past few seasons, we've aimed to foster a culture of increased accountability, collaboration, and transparency between coaches and athletes," she said, also noting the team prioritizes open communication channels, incorporates feedback from team members, and engages in team-building activities.  

"As former members of the Canadian National Team, our coaching styles are a combination of our lived experiences and observations on successful coaching strategies," noted current Head Coaches Nicole Cai and Joyce Xu.   

The emphasis lies on understanding each team member's playing style and habits, allowing for tailored training plans that address individual needs. Creating a positive environment for athletes to pursue both athletic and academic excellence is central to the Table Tennis team's coaching philosophy. "A team which is formed by fostering a collaborative environment where players work to support each other while working towards common goals," stated Cai and Xu.  

Coach Shiao reflects on two standout moments from the 2022-2023 season; a first-place finish at the National Collegiate Table Tennis Association (NCTTA) Great Lakes Regionals showcased the team's resilience in the face of challenges, with members on the Coed A team missing due to unprecedented circumstances. "I could not be more proud of the way the team supported each other, trusted their teammates, and the incredible resilience and determination they demonstrated in the face of adversity," says Shaio. Additionally, a third-place finish at the NCTTA Nationals for the women's team event marked a historic moment in Western table tennis history.  

Two standout athletes from the team, Terence Yeung and Manik Singh, have exemplified team dedication and skill.  

Yeung's introduction to table tennis began at an early age. "I initially started playing table tennis due to my older brother and sister, who enjoyed the sport. Similarly, I quickly fell in love with the sport and made it my goal to be the best player that I could be. I started playing table tennis when I was about 7 years old, and after being on the national team for several years, I decided to continue playing in university." 

Despite not being able to play in his first year due to the pandemic, Yeung has enjoyed every minute as a Mustang. "Playing on the Mustangs Table Tennis team, my favorite part is exactly that – the team. The bonds that I formed with the rest of the team really made me enjoy playing the sport even more. We have a great time supporting each other and trying to help everyone reach their goals," he shared.  

A pivotal moment for Yeung was qualifying for the 2023 NCTTA National Championships. "I think that it really gave me validation that I was still able to play at a high level, and it also gave me more motivation to continue practicing and improving. I also think traveling to another country with the team made us even closer, as we were able to rely on each other during this time and make unforgettable memories", said Yeung. 

Reflecting on the broader impact of his journey, Yeung emphasizes the importance of life-long learning. Competing at the collegiate level with players he had encountered internationally reinforced the necessity of continuous innovation and improvement. A pre-match routine is integral to Yeung's preparation, with a particular focus on a consistent pre-match song. This ritual helps him get into the right headspace, allowing for heightened focus on the task at hand.  

As a member of the table tennis team at Western, Yeung sees it as a positive force in his university experience. The sport, he notes, has had the most significant impact on his life and who he is as a person. "I think that having a positive attitude and trying your best is crucial in sports and is what really stays with you as time goes on", said Yeung. 

Manik Singh's introduction into table tennis also began at an early age. "I discovered my love for table tennis during casual matches with friends during our lunch breaks at school. It wasn't long before the school's Table Tennis coach recognized my potential in the sport, noting my natural grasp of complex spins and movements. Encouraged by this recognition, I joined the school team, and to my surprise, our performance soared. In 2012, I decided to test my skills in a provincial tournament. Despite having no formal coaching at that point, I clinched the 3rd position. This experience was a turning point for me; it not only revealed my untapped potential but also sparked a genuine passion for table tennis. From that moment on, the sport became more than just a pastime—it became a source of joy, personal growth, and a commitment to pursuing excellence in every game", said Singh. 

Being a part of the Mustangs Table Tennis team has given Singh more than just an avenue to showcase his skills. "We're not just teammates; we're a close-knit group that supports each other both on and off the table," says Singh. The competitive yet friendly atmosphere has enriched his experience, fostering personal growth and lasting friendships.  

Qualifying for the 2023 College Table Tennis National Championships is a crowning achievement for Singh, symbolizing not just personal success but the collective effort of the team. "Beyond individual achievements, qualifying for the National Championships is a testament to the collective effort of our team. We got a chance for us to demonstrate the strength of our training, teamwork, and the support we provide each other. Personally, it's a significant milestone that showcases the progress I've made as an athlete and the commitment I've shown to mastering the sport. Representing our team, the Mustangs, on such a prestigious stage is a source of immense pride. I was able to remain undefeated throughout the season in the team event with a record of 16-0, I was also able to achieve the feat of becoming the highest rated Table Tennis player in Canada (NCTTA). In essence, qualifying for the 2023 College Table Tennis National Championships is not just a personal accomplishment; it's a shared success that reflects the synergy of our team and the exciting prospects for our future in the sport" shared Singh.

And now the team can add qualifying for the 2024 College Table Tennis National Championships to their list of accomplishments. After great success at the CTTNC Great Lakes Regional qualifiers this past week, taking a first place finish for the second year in a row, as well as numerous medals, the Mustangs Table Tennis team has extended their season and continues to prepare for the Championships in Rochester on March 4-5, as well as the College Table Tennis National Championship in Texas from April 14-16. 

Lessons from National Competition competing against top-ranked schools has taught Singh crucial life lessons. "I learned to adapt my playing style to diverse opponents, emphasizing the importance of versatility. The experience also instilled mental resilience, teaching me to stay focused and determined in high-pressure situations. Additionally, it highlighted the significance of teamwork, demonstrating that individual excellence is enhanced by a cohesive team effort. These lessons extend beyond the sport, influencing both my approach to table tennis and my broader life skills", said Singh. 

"Representing the university in table tennis has developed my leadership qualities, fostering effective collaboration and communication. The team's support has been a constant source of motivation, contributing significantly to my overall personal and academic growth", said Singh.  

The Mustangs Table Tennis team's success and growth in recent years has helped to build the team's foundation for the accomplishments they are now seeing in their current 2023-24 season.  

This Mustangs team is one to watch.