The 2026 Congress held today in Ljubljana recognised individuals whose dedication and service have made a lasting contribution to the development of European table tennis.
Upon the proposal of the ETTU Executive Board, delegates appointed Raúl CALIN of Spain as an ETTU Honorary Member by acclamation, recognising his outstanding contribution to the sport over more than three decades.
In an emotional acceptance speech, CALIN reflected on his journey in table tennis, which began in Panama in 1989, and his 25 years with the International Table Tennis Federation.
“My passion for our sport began in 1989, when I discovered table tennis in Panama. I was already 17 years old when I first became involved in the sport. For the first 11 years, I worked entirely as a volunteer. Like many of you here today, I took on different roles within the sport. I was a player, a coach, an umpire, a technical official and eventually a referee.”
CALIN, who began his professional career with the ITTF in 2001, emphasised the importance of recognising the people who dedicate their time to the sport.
“One of the most important lessons I learned was the need to maintain a balance between the professionalisation of our sport and the essential contribution of volunteers. As federations become increasingly professional in their structures and staffing, we must never forget to recognise and appreciate the extraordinary work carried out by volunteers – whether they serve on boards, within member associations or at club level.”
CALIN also praised the unity within ETTU and its efforts to preserve the traditions of European table tennis while continuing to modernise.
“Standing here in front of you, I can truly see and feel the unity of the European Table Tennis Union family. I can see the cooperation between the President, the Executive Board and the staff, and I sincerely encourage all of you to continue along this path.”
ETTU Badges of Honour were also awarded to Prof. Dr. Veli Ozan ÇAKIR of Türkiye, Esko HEIKKINEN of Finland, Margaryta Anatoliivna PESOTSKA of Ukraine and Darijan VIZJAK of Slovenia, in recognition of their contributions to European table tennis.
Photo: Henk HOMMES
