Amy has had a spectacular start to 2015. She recently qualified as a member of not one, but three U.S. teams - National Women's, Junior Girls', and Cadet Girls'. I had the opportunity to ask Amy a few questions. Enjoy!
Quick facts about Amy Wang:
Currently at highest rating of 2379
#29 in World for Girls Under 15
2015 U.S. National Women's, World Women's, Junior Girls', & Cadet Girls' Team Member
2013 U.S. Open - 11 & Under Girls' Champion, 13 & Under Girls' Champion
2012 U.S. Nationals - 10 & Under Girls' Champion
2012 U.S. Open - 11 & Under Girls' Champion
2009 U.S. Open - 9 & Under Girls' Champion
Sponsored by Joola
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| Amy Wang (Member - 2015 U.S. National, Junior, and Cadet Teams) Photo: Joola USA |
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| With Amy Wang at Westchester TTC |
1. Congratulations on making not one, but three U.S. Teams at just over 12 years of age. How does it feel and what do you attribute your success to?
It feels great to be on a team with such good players and to have the opportunity to travel to other places around the world to compete. I would like to thank my family for the big support they have given me throughout these past years and for always encouraging me to do my best.
2. Did you do any special preparation for the team trials?
Before the team trials, I practiced a lot harder than usual. I also worked on strategies and techniques my dad taught me to do.
3. This is the first time that you have earned a spot on the U.S. World Women's Team. Are you doing any special preparation for Suzhou? How do you feel? Are you nervous, excited, or a little bit of both?
I am working on my serving skills and on receiving other people's serves. I am very excited because it will be my first World Championship and it is a great opportunity to see professional players from around the world.
I started to play when I was 4 years old, but I got into it a little bit more at the age of 5. I got interested after watching my brother, Allen play with my dad.
5. What equipment do you currently use?
Blade: Joola Nature
Forehand rubber: Joola Maxxx-P
Backhand rubber: Joola Maxxx-P
6. How often do you play and train?
I play everyday for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, and on Saturdays, I go to Lily Yip Table Tennis Center (LYTTC) to train.
7. Tell us about your most memorable match.
My most memorable match was winning the Hopes Single and Team Championship at the 2014 World Hopes Team Challenge in Slovenia.
8. What are your short-term and long-term goals with regards to table tennis?
My short-term goal is to become a 2400 level player. My long-term goal is to represent the U.S. in the Olympics.
My short-term goal is to become a 2400 level player. My long-term goal is to represent the U.S. in the Olympics.
9. Who is your all-time favorite international table tennis player? Why?
My all-time favorite international table tennis player is Liu Shiwen because she's really fast and she consistently controls the ball, barely missing any shots.
10. At one point all three of you, Allen, Eddie, and you, were playing table tennis. Was there ever any sibling rivalry?
I don't think so.
11. What would you say to other girls who are not sure if they should play table tennis or not?
I would say that table tennis is a really good exercise and it helps you become mentally tougher. It also helps improve agility.
12. Your favorite:
13. What do you enjoy doing outside of table tennis?
I enjoy hanging out with my friends and going shopping.
14. Would you like to share any surprising fact that many people who know you don't know about you?
I've done dance ever since I was 4. I also started playing the piano at the same age.
My all-time favorite international table tennis player is Liu Shiwen because she's really fast and she consistently controls the ball, barely missing any shots.
10. At one point all three of you, Allen, Eddie, and you, were playing table tennis. Was there ever any sibling rivalry?
I don't think so.
11. What would you say to other girls who are not sure if they should play table tennis or not?
I would say that table tennis is a really good exercise and it helps you become mentally tougher. It also helps improve agility.
Book: Harry Potter Series
Movie: Despicable Me
TV Show: The Arrow/The Flash
Song: Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars
iOS App: Crossy Road
Movie: Despicable Me
TV Show: The Arrow/The Flash
Song: Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars
iOS App: Crossy Road
I enjoy hanging out with my friends and going shopping.
14. Would you like to share any surprising fact that many people who know you don't know about you?
I've done dance ever since I was 4. I also started playing the piano at the same age.
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Amy, good luck with the World's! We hope that Team USA can bring home some medals!