IN his role as UAAP Season 87 table tennis deputy commissioner, Handel Yap was glad to be part of the development of the sport in the country as an official.
With the involvement in the sport over the years, Yap sees a bright future of the sport in the Philippines.
“We need to have more coaching seminars and grassroots programs. The more coaches we have, the more players they can nurture, which will ultimately elevate the sport,” said the sportsman-businessman.
“We need more tournaments, better training facilities, and stronger support from both private and public sponsors. These are essential steps to bring table tennis to new heights,” said Yap.
Yap balanced his role as a businessman and deputy commissioner during the UAAP wars where he worked alongside commissioner Pong Ducanes. He also used technology in his role in the collegiate league that also helped reduced time and travel demands.
“Juggling both roles is no easy task,” said the Cebu-based entrepreneur who is overseeing his family business including Asta Trading. “However, my experience in managing private international events has provided insights into running the tournaments, which are more systematic in nature.”
In the end, it was his passion for the sport that evolved as a personal hobby for health reasons through the years that enabled him to manage the UAAP tournament that was won by University of Santo Tomas in all four division through a perfect 52-0 record.
“My passion started with my cousin, Bill Yap, who was a serious and passionate player. In 1996, I enrolled in a table tennis camp in Beijing, China to learn proper techniques. Later on, I was fortunate to be introduced to our Mr. Rafael San Juan III, who has been guiding me ever since,” said Yap.
“Table tennis has been a part of my lifestyle for years,” he said. “It’s more than just a sport. It’s a passion that has helped me stay fit and connected to the community.”
With the benefits of table tennis, Yap said he will continue to strike a balance between work and his hobby.
“Time management is critical, especially when balancing the demands of my family business. But the passion I have for table tennis drives me,” said Yap.
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