Ping Pongers Battle And Paddle In The Park

By Amy Russell
Since July 2009, the Ping Pong Club at the Severna Park Community Center has been growing in numbers. Every Thursday evening a group of pongers gather to play the atypical hobby that’s sweeping the area.
“Our numbers are mainly made up of the teenage group right now,” said Mike Patterson, who leads the group. “On any given night there are six or seven of us over about 35, along with a handful of younger players that are pretty good. Some dads bring their kids to play. George Helwig, our senior player, is 89.”

Overall, Patterson says the age and skill levels vary. More than 70 names are on the email list, and usually about 15 show-up on any given night to play on the five or six tables available at the Community Center.
According to Patterson, even though there are eight women on the list it’s rare to see more than one on a game night.
The Ping Pong Club got started when Helwig donated his old ping pong table to the Community Center. From there, various players have come together, with more donated equipment, to form the club.
“We have various skill levels and we play purely for fun,” Patterson says. “Depending on the size of the crowd there may be one or two doubles tables playing downstairs and four sets of singles upstairs.”
Outlining the club’s mission statement are several goals, including the development of lightning-like reflexes, sharp eyes, and a sharp mind, and to improve healthy dynamics within the community by bringing young, old, and family members of all ages together to compete and socialize. The Club also hopes to bring people together in the spirit of fun, fair play and competition and to teach values of teamwork, skill acquisition and strategy.

Though there’s no official charge to play, most attendees chip in about $10 for the cost of the space rental. Newcomers, both experienced players and those new to the game, are always welcome.
“Just show up,” Patterson tells inquiries. “After we hit it around a bit we’ll figure out the best competition for your skill set.”as they hone their paddle skills with members of the Severna Park Ping Pong Club.