MTTA celebrates 65 years in service
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 Mr. Robin L Rutnam (Richard Pieris & Co. Ltd.). Messrs. M. Balaji, AK Nesaratnam, NM Udeshi, C.Paramananthan, NM Lakdawala, Lionel Ponniah, Basil Dabare, K C Chandraraj, Eric Motha and RK Singham represented their Companies.
In 1969 history was unfurled in the Mercantile sports sector when the MTTA organized their inaugural Dinner Dance aptly titled “Bouncing Ball” during the tenure of NM Lakdawala as President. It was probably the first time an event of this magnitude was organized and proved to be a trail blazer. NE Thangarajah, Robert Joseph,GEP Jayatileke, Wijesiri Daluwatte and Eric Motha formed the organizing 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.
Sukitha Samarakkody President in 2018 deserves accolades for taking the commendable initiative in organizing 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 player. Eric Motha, founder member and 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.