There has been favouritism in featuring table tennis players in the Sports pages
Dear Editor,
Having read the Stabroek News article of Wednesday, May, 21 2008 titled ‘Nepotism has no place in sport,’ the old creole adage ‘Pot telling kettle he bottom black’ immediately came to mind.
While I agree that nepotism in all its forms can be detrimental to sports, equally so can be editorial favouritism towards young participants in sports. To reinforce my belief, I would like to highlight the situation that pertains to my daughter Ambrose Thomas and many other young table tennis players.
Ambrose Thomas, now fifteen (15) years old, has been playing table tennis for the last seven (7) years. During this period she has won the under 11, under 13 and under 15 girls’ titles on more than three (3) occasions; she has represented Guyana internationally several times and just for good measure, she has also won several “most improved player” titles. Yet not once has Stabroek News, whose Sport editor is someone who is closely associated with table tennis, ever interviewed, featured or highlighted any of her achievements.
I have read numerous articles in the sports pages of Stabroek News featuring other young talented table tennis players – some articles were even full page in length – highlighting their achievements.
While I acknowledge that all players’ accomplishments should be highlighted, I cannot however endorse the selective approach by the Stabroek News Sports writers.
