The International Olympic Committee has awarded the prestigious 'Women and Sport' Achievement Diploma to Argentina's Alejandra Gabaglio, for her outstanding efforts and dedication towards the development women's table tennis.
This is the second year in a row that table tennis has been recognized as a leader in this field; in 2010 Jane Pinto was the recipient.
Judit Farago, ITTF Chief Executive, said:
"Alejandra Gabaglio has been a role model within ITTF. This passionate and multi-skilled leader is one of ITTF's most active course conductors and course conductor trainers, was co-author of the Para Table Tennis Level Coaching Manual and very active within the Para Table Tennis World, was Argentinian Table Tennis Federation Secretary-General, and has played an active role in the ITTF Women's Working Group. Alejandra is truly a great role model for others to follow and we congratulate her on this well deserved award."
Unquestionably, Alejandra Gabaglio is one of the most dedicated and successful ITTF Course Conductors; one of the reasons why such a large number of courses have been held in recent years in South America, is as a result of her efforts and motivational approach.
Alejandra Gabaglio, said:
"I feel very honoured to receive the IOC Achievement Diploma, which is only possible thanks to all the possibilities that ITTF has given me in different areas, participating and organizing activities for women.
"I'm always proud to represent the ITTF and to show to others all the opportunities the ITTF has created for women's participation; in the ITTF Development Department, Glenn Tepper and Leandro Olvech have given me opportunities to conduct courses around the world, they always supported me; also if I had new initiatives, they always believed in me conducting and leading courses."
Women's Working Group
Alejandra has been an active member of the ITTF Women's Working Group and placed this forum at the heart of her achievement.
"The ITTF Women's Working Group placed their trust by nominating me and we were able to open doors for the group to exchange ideas and develop strategies for women.
"My special thanks to Lila de Soysa who is the person who inspired and motivated me to promote women in sport, the person who showed me all the things that we can do to involve more women; with great generosity she gave me her knowledge, advice, expertize and friendship.
"Also I must mention Mr Nestor Tenca, the President of Argentina Table Tennis Federation; he has always supported my nominations for ITTF Committees and women's activities in Argentina.
This support is well merited, it has been earned and it is given because there is a high degree of confidence and trust in the efforts of Alejandra Gabaglio.
Glenn Tepper, ITTF Deputy Chief Executive & Executive Director of Development, Said:
"All of us in ITTF are very proud of Alejandro Gabaglio's recognition which is a high honour in an Olympic sport.
"Her achievement will surely give further inspiration and motivation to others in table tennis family. At the same time this award is a good reflection of the successful programmes ITTF is running in the Development Department, in the Women's Working Group and in integration of Para Table Tennis. Warm congratulation to Alejandro on the honour, she is a person who fully deserves it."
