Table tennis tournament scheduled in Joplin

(From the City of Joplin)

Table tennis, also referred to as “ping pong”, may not be at the top of the news for sportscasters; however, an upcoming tournament in Joplin is getting much attention by table tennis players near and far, and provides a unique opportunity for the public to see skilled players in this sport.

On Saturday, April 25, the Joplin Table Tennis Club is hosting the Spring Classic 2015 Ping Pong Tournament at Memorial Hall, and players at all levels have signed up for this event.

According to Janus Lazarus, President of the Joplin Club, 21 singles and 7 double players, with many of these playing at a high skill level have already registered for this four-state tournament.

“This is a great tournament for this area,” said Lazarus. “We’re seeing many players signing up and spectators should enjoy watching this competitive tournament with these highly skilled players.”

Lazarus said their club encourages the public to attend and watch this one of a kind tournament. Attending the tournament is free, however he said the Club needs to purchase more equipment for future events, and people are welcome to make a donation to this cause.

“Many may have recreational tables in their homes,” he said, “but the tournament tables cost up to $1,300 each, which can make it difficult to host large events. This sport is great for both men and women, and adults of all ages, so we’re excited to have this tournament here in Joplin so more people know about our club and the sport itself.”

Tournaments generally have 24 players competing. Lazarus said there has been great interest in this tournament and has registered a total of 26 players for the event. The roster includes eight from Oklahoma, including Oklahoma City, Stillwater, Broken Arrow, Tulsa, Miami, and Quapaw; two from Springdale, Ark., in addition to six from Springfield, Mo., and two from Neosho, Mo. Joplin will have eight athletes from this level competing.

For more information about the Joplin Table Tennis Club or for a schedule of the tournament, go to Joplin Table Tennis Facebook, or click on the link at the end of this article, or call Janus Lazarus at 417-319-1441.