The 2017 International Table Tennis World Cadet Challenge is providing an exciting and valuable experience for young players.

13 year-old Mel Ivaiti from the Cook Islands who is part of the Fiji- Pacific Team, is building up his confidence and skills at the event currently underway at Suva’s Vodafone Arena.

Ivaiti who was up against a top seed from Africa in the individual event this afternoon says despite losing out 3-0, the 13-year-old says it was a great experience.

“The game was pretty hard but it was fin at the same time. It really develops my knowledge in the sport and I’ll be back next year.”

He adds that he enjoyed being up against top overseas competitors and gaining exposure.