12 weeks after the injury, I'm very happy to say that I'm now 90% of the way healed and back to training.
So why do I play anyway?
Many top-level coaches have encouraged me to only coach and not play.
There are several reasons that I'm still working hard at my game...
Enjoyment
I enjoy playing. I enjoy the training aspect and I enjoy the competitive aspect.
Help
Over the years, I have been helped by so many individuals and companies who have believed in me, believed that I could really make the national team even though I was 1100 and the other kids were 2500. These companies have supported me and encouraged me so much - Nittaku, Paddle Palace, Newgy Robo-Pong, and many others.
Gifted
Most Ohio players top off around 1700. God has gifted me with some ability to break beyond the norm and reach a higher level, even with less-than-ideal training.
Knowledge
Continuing to play helps me to continue expanding my knowledge of the game. Right now, there are 20-25 aspects of my game that need major improvement. As I learn to work through these areas, it also helps me to become a better coach. Regardless if I'm 33 or 83, my goal is to be the most up-to-date coach in not just following the trends, but also thinking outside the box.
Role-model
I want to be a role-model for other juniors to follow. Table tennis is a lifelong sport. If these 2600 level juniors train from age 10-17, that's great. But make it a lifelong sport and we will really be seeing some awesome results within the next 5-10 years.
Future
From the playing aspect, I feel that my best playing days are yet to come. After staying around 2450 for about 10 years, I suddenly broke 2600 last year. It wasn't a fluke accident. It was intentional training, improving specific details, and moving up to the next level, even past my 20s.
Glory to God
I feel that God can be glorified through every aspect of my life - winning or losing, on and off the court. Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins 2000 years ago, he took the wrath of God upon himself for me, he died the death of a criminal so that I could be forgiven of my sins and spend eternity in heaven. This is the most compelling message that I have. It isn't just about hitting better forehands and backhands, it is about sharing the message of the Gospel that gives me motivation each and every day.