05, August 2024, Sonipat: Sahil Rawat, Xth grade student of Orchids The International School, has once again made a presence on international turf by winning two medals at the recently concluded World Table Tennis Star Youth Contender which was in Lima, Peru. The young table tennis lad clinched Silver in the U-15 Boys Doubles and Bronze in Mixed Doubles during the competition.
The World Table Tennis (WTT) is the arm of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), revolutionizing the sport since its inception in 2019. WTT events are considered highly prestigious in the table tennis world due to their rigorous competition standards and the platform they provide for emerging talents to compete alongside established stars.
Speaking on his achievement, Sahil Rawat said, “I’m overjoyed and proud to represent my country and win these two prestigious medals. My ultimate goal is to represent India at the Olympics, and I feel I’m on the right track to achieve that dream sooner than expected. The support from my coaches, family and Orchids school have been incredible, and I couldn’t have done it without them. I’m more motivated than ever to train harder and reach new heights in my sporting career.”
Romita Sharma, Principal, Orchids The International School, Sonipat, said, “It is with immense pride and joy that we celebrate Sahil’s outstanding achievements in table tennis. Winning two international medals is a remarkable testament to his dedication and perseverance. Sahil’s hard work has not only brought honor to himself but also to Orchids The International School, Sonipat campus. As he continues to excel both academically and athletically, may he always find inspiration in his achievements and strive for even greater heights. We are incredibly proud of Sahil’s accomplishments and look forward to witnessing his continued success.”
Dr. Madhuri Sagale, VP Academics-Sports, Orchids The International School, congratulated Sahil Rawat on his remarkable achievements at the WTT Star Youth Contender in Lima, Peru. Dr. Sagale mentioned, “Winning a Silver medal in the U-15 Boys Doubles and a Bronze medal in Mixed Doubles at such a prestigious event, where competitors from ten countries participated, is a testament to his skill, determination, and perseverance. Sahil’s journey, marked by brilliant victories through various competition levels, showcases his dedication and passion for table tennis. This success story highlights the importance of nurturing young talent through a robust sports curriculum and the constant support from our teachers and Principal. We are immensely proud of Sahil’s accomplishments and look forward to more milestones in his promising career.”
The WTT Star Youth Contender series is particularly significant as it serves as a crucial stepping stone for young players aiming to make their mark in the professional circuit. These tournaments offer valuable ranking points and international exposure, playing a vital role in shaping the future of table tennis. Sahil’s success at this event is not just a personal achievement but a testament to India’s growing prowess in the sport.
This prestigious WTT event saw participation from ten countries, making it a highly competitive tournament. Sahil has shown great skill and determination to go through various levels in the competition. His journey to Silver and Bronze medals included some brilliant victories at the 16 rounds, the quarterfinals against the USA, the semifinals against another Indian competitor, and a fiercely contested final against Puerto Rico.
This was not the first time that Sahil Rawat participated in an international-level competition. Starting his professional journey in 2021 from Dehradun, he has earned a very impressive count of ten National medals and four international medals to his name, constantly proving that he is remarkable at table tennis. The doubles competition had been structured into Main Draw, Pre-Quarterfinals, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and the Finals.
Sahil started practising Table Tennis in 2017, and he has been trained under coaches namely Peter Nilson, Veer Saran, Manish Verma, and Halim. Currently, he is trained under Peter Nilson at PSPB Table Tennis Academy.
Orchids The International School has played an important role in Sahil’s development, providing a flexible schedule to accommodate his rigorous training regimen. He has expressed his deep gratitude for the unwavering support of his teachers and Principal.