By Shaquila Sarapao, Press Committee
Kevin Nguyen and Thinh Tran, co-presidents of the University of Portland’s newly formed table tennis club, are leading the charge in bringing the sport to campus.
Together with vice president Cole Gray, they launched the club this year with a bold goal: to represent UP in the National Collegiate Table Tennis Association. “It’s an honor to introduce a sport that hasn’t been part of our school’s athletic program,” Nguyen says. “We believe this is the start of something special.”
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the club’s initial hurdles was a lack of equipment, with only one table provided by the school. However, thanks to a generous donation from the table tennis community, the club was able to acquire two additional tables, allowing more students to participate and enjoy the sport.
The team’s vision is to create a welcoming, inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds and skill levels. “We wanted to introduce table tennis as a fun, engaging activity that brings people together,” Nguyen explains. “Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, there’s a place for you in our club.”
The club runs practice sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offering open play and coaching for those seeking to improve their skills. With increasing membership and growing enthusiasm, the club is already making plans for the future. “We hope to qualify for regionals and continue competing in the NCTTA,” Nguyen shares. “But more importantly, we want to build a lasting community where students can connect, have fun, and enjoy the game.” With a bright future ahead, the University of Portland’s table tennis club is poised to make a lasting impact on campus and beyond.
