By Shaquila Sarapao, Press Committee
The Ping Pong Rockers, a newly formed table tennis club at South Dakota Mines, are making waves under the leadership of Antonio Assante, president and co-coach.
Along with his brother Gian, Antonio has worked tirelessly to create a space for students to connect through the sport they love. “Table tennis is more than just a hobby for me; it’s a way of life,” says Antonio, whose passion for the game began in Peru and Panama, where he and his brother competed in local and international tournaments.
The road to forming the club wasn’t easy. “The biggest challenge was finding people who were committed to the sport,” Antonio reflects. After starting college in 2022, it wasn’t until the spring of 2024 that they officially launched the Ping Pong Rockers. Despite the wait, Antonio believes it was worth it. “We’ve created a community of passionate players, and it’s been amazing to see how much everyone has improved.”
Most of the club’s members are
freshmen, but players of all ages, including sophomores and graduate students, have joined in. “What stands out is how quickly everyone has become dedicated to learning and improving,” Antonio says. Practices include match drills and real-game scenarios, with the Assante brothers offering guidance to help players enhance their skills.
Looking ahead, Antonio hopes the club will continue to grow and compete in tournaments across the country, with an eye on representing South Dakota Mines at the national level. “Our goal is to bring home new experiences and memories,” he says. Even after his graduation, Antonio hopes the Ping Pong Rockers will continue to thrive and compete, building new memories and experiences.
