NOTATIONAL ANALYSIS OF THE CADET AND JUNIOR SINGLES TABLE TENNIS FINALS AT THE 2013 ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to provide a comparison between the two finals of the elite cadet and junior table tennis players. The 2013 Asian singles cadet and junior final matches were notated live and video recorded for further post-analysis. Junior players demonstrated a more variable serve placement strategy and favored the more aggressive topspin cross table return deep into the oppositions forehand. Work rate time was marginally greater per game in the junior finals (cadet vs. junior; 3.1s ± 1.7 3.3s ± 1.8) however junior players had a greater average rally length (5.3 s ± 2.6 and 4.4 ± 0.9) and greater number of high velocity top spin shots (21.5 ± 5.5 and 14.9 ± 5.6). Physicality and aggressive playing style increases with both age and ability level. These data provide a start to inform coaches of the progression between the top levels at both age groups.