A few weeks ago I had the incredible opportunity to shadow John Murphy, the head coach of the England women’s table tennis team, during the ETTU Stage 1 team qualifiers in Sarajevo. It was an experience that not only broadened my perspective on coaching but also provided a firsthand look at what it takes to operate at the elite level of the sport.
Arrival and Preparation
From the moment we arrived in Sarajevo, the focus and professionalism of the team stood out. Preparation began well before the players even stepped onto the court. Detailed training plans, opponent analysis, and individual goals were laid out in a structured but flexible way. The importance of balancing technical adjustments with mental preparation, also became a recurring theme throughout the week.
Training Sessions: Precision and Purpose
While watching the warm-up sessions it was clear that every drill had a purpose, whether it was refining footwork patterns, improving service variation, or practicing specific tactical plays for upcoming matches. I was interested to observe John’s coaching style during the week - and at all times it was calm, clear, and consistently constructive. He balanced praise with precise feedback, ensuring players understood not just what to adjust but why it mattered.
One takeaway for me was how much emphasis was placed on match-like conditions during practice and warm-ups. There was no going through the motions—every rally, serve, and receive had intent behind it.
Team matches: Tactical Adaptation in Real-Time
During matches, I saw firsthand how elite coaching extends far beyond the training hall. John’s ability to read the game, identify patterns, and communicate concise tactical adjustments between sets was remarkable. He didn’t overwhelm players with information but focused on one or two key changes that could shift momentum.
It was also clear how vital the coach-player relationship is at this level. Trust, open communication, and mutual respect formed the foundation for effective in-game coaching.
Learning Beyond the Table
Away from the court, conversations with John and the team provided invaluable insights into the broader aspects of elite coaching which included the importance of fostering a high-performance culture without sacrificing enjoyment.
One moment that stuck with me was John’s reminder that while technical excellence is crucial, it’s often the psychological edge that separates good from great. Building resilience, staying present under pressure, and maintaining belief were themes that echoed throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Shadowing and working with the England women’s team during the ETTU Stage 1 qualifiers was a fantastic experience. It reinforced how coaching at the elite level is as much about understanding people as it is about understanding the sport. The week left me inspired, equipped with new ideas, and more motivated than ever to continue developing as a coach.
A huge thank you to John, the players, and the entire England setup for their openness and professionalism. It was a privilege to witness their journey and to play just a small part in their success that week.
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