Table Tennis Club: A Look into St. Joe’s New Club

There’s a new club at the high school.

St. Joseph’s Table Tennis Club is growing fast, but what’s making this club different from the rest? To find out, I sat down with some of the players who are making it all happen.

An enthusiastic member, Jorge Padilla, 12, explained how the club has evolved, “Initially, we were just pushing tables together in the woods classroom, but now we have two actual tables we can use.” Jorge also said, “it’s fun being able to mess around with friends and try something new.”

So why is table tennis gaining so much attention? For one, it’s an accessible sport—anyone can pick up a paddle and play, whether they’re a beginner or a professional. Plus, it’s a great way to build hand-eye coordination and reflexes.

With the club at more than 20 members, it has created a community for all skill levels to have fun. A member and sponsor of the club, Max White, 10, said, “It’s very light-hearted. I think it’s a fun place for everyone, regardless of skill.”

With its growing popularity, the club spends its meetings having tournaments. It starts with a winners and losers bracket, and as the games progress, the champions of the losers and winners brackets face off for a final round. There’s even talk of getting more tables to accommodate the increasing number of players.

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your free time after school, consider grabbing a paddle and joining in. Regardless if you’re a casual player or just wanting to learn, there’s a spot for you at the SJHS Table Tennis Club.

Interested? Meetings take place Monday from 3–4 p.m. after school in the woods room.