JOOLA USA

Interview with David Gong
By Larry Hodges

Age/DOB: 07/15/1998
Home Club: Gwinnett TTC

Equipment
Racket: JOOLA K5
Forehand sponge: JOOLA Mambo GP
Backhand sponge: JOOLA Mambo H

-Ranked #1 Under 10 Boys

-2007 Life Open Under 13 and Under 10 Boys Champion

-2007 State Georges Under 14 Boys Champion

When and how did you start playing?

I started playing when I was seven and half years old.  I got interested in the sport after I watched my father play in a tournament after a 10-year break. It is lucky I went to the tournament. 

Describe your playing style.

Two-wing looper

 Who are your coaches (past or present)?

I have been coached by my father (Sanxia Gong) right from the beginning. I have also practiced and been coached with many good players in Atlanta area. [Editor's note - David recently returned from training in China.]

What are you currently working on?

Footwork and concentration.

What are your table tennis goals - short-, intermediate- and long-term?
My short-term goal is to reach 2000 rating in one year.

My intermediate goal is to make to the USA Cadet Team.

My long-term goal is to represent USA at the Olympics.

What are your interests outside table tennis?

Swimming, Reading and Games.

Any tips for up-and-coming players?

Training hard and smart.