65 years of the Mercantile Table Tennis Association – a glimpse into the past

The Mercantile Table Tennis Association (MTTA), founded in 1957, holds a pivotal position in the mercantile sector, having made commendable progress during the 65 years of its existence.

The inaugural meeting held in 1957 was presided over by Robin L. Rudman (Richard Piers & Co. Ltd.). M. Bali, A.K. Nesaratnam, N.M. Udeshi, C. Paramananthan, N.M. Lakdawala, Lionel Ponniah, Basil Dabare, K.C. Chandraraj, Eric Motha and R.K. Singham represented their companies.

In 1969, history was unfurled in the Mercantile sports sector when the MTTA organised their inaugural Dinner Dance aptly titled ‘Bouncing Ball’ during the tenure of N.M. Lakdawala as President. It was probably the first time an event of this magnitude was organised, and proved to be a trailblazer. N.E. Thangarajah, Robert Joseph, G.E.P. Jayatileke, Wijesiri Daluwatte and Eric Motha formed the organising committee.

The event was revived in later years with Rodney St. John at the helm. Chandrakant M. Vasa was elected President in the 1970’s, and his charismatic leadership imbued with an innate vision will be remembered by those who had the privilege of teaming up.

The popularity of the sport was enhanced with more firms seeking membership in the Association. The following served as Presidents since the 1990’s with dedicated office bearers under their purview: Sarath Gunaratne, Rajiva Wijetunge, M. Ruzaik Jabir, Ajith Gamage, Dhanajaya Dharmarathna, Madushanka Gammanpila, Sukitha Samarakkody and currently Chanaka Perera.

It is relevant to mention that the MTTA was also endowed with patrons who guided the destinies of the association with their advice and financial support. President in 2018 Sukitha Samarakkody deserves accolades for taking the commendable initiative in organising the first-ever ‘Colours Night’ at a glittering ceremony.

It was attended by 69 award winners and corporate heads of 10 leading companies. It was a momentous occasion in the annals of the MTTA. Kalpana Herath and Nirmala Jayasinghe (AS) were adjudged the most valuable players.

Eric Motha, Founder Member/former President received the MTTA Hall of Fame Class 2018 being the first recipient of the coveted award. The MTTA continues to be in the forefront of mercantile sports with a proven track record to be verily proud of.