DESMOND DOUGLAS OPENS CLUB by Bob Brown

Table-tennis legend Desmond Douglas and current England international Kelly Sibley opened the new Hall Green club in style.  Kingshurst Bribar British League stars Mike Browne and Scott Prime provided the opposition in exhibition matches, which saw high quality entertainment, before a packed house, at the club premises at the HG club in Doveridge Road.  "Conditions like this can only bring the game forward," enthused Douglas, who is heavily involved in coaching some of the top young talent in England.  "My long term aim is to produce players who will compete in the London Olympics of 2012," said the head coach at the Wood Green Centre of Excellence in Wednesbury.

  Kelly, who plays in the French National League, also has the London Games in her sights.  The 18 year old, who has been inspired by listening to Sir Steve Redgrave and Kelly Holmes, has already been fast tracked into the preliminary British squad.  "It may seem a long way off, but when we are involved with intensive training and coaching, the thought of competing in London keeps my mind focussed," said Kelly.  The Leamington based player has already competed in World, European and Commonwealth Championships for England, after making her senior debut as a 15 year old.