Image Up Advertising & Design

FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | MAY 2026 61 In last month's Spin & Slam article, we talked about the importance of spin in the game of table tennis. This month we are going to write about the Smash (or Slam!) shot. The smash in table tennis is an aggressive, high-speed forehand or backhand shot that is designed to win the point, usually against a weak return from your opponent. If anyone in our club has ever been on the receiving end of a smash from Perry, Brent, or Valerie, you had better think about hiding behind a curtain while thanking your lucky stars that ping pong isn't played with a golf ball. While spin is largely initiated with movement of the wrist, the slam is generated by a combination of rotation of the waist and shoulders followed by an aggressive arm swing. Many players, while completing a successful smash, immediately head to the kitchen for a drink thinking they easily won the point, unaware that your opponent has successfully returned the ball. Needless to say, you had better be prepared if your 70 mph power-shot isn't a winner. The Spin & Slam Table Tennis Club was formed to attract residents who enjoy the game of table tennis, and are ready to improve their game through practice and consistency. Beyond being a sport that naturally requires deft hand/eye coordination and reflexes, table tennis is an extremely social activity, with many of us playing doubles with a partner, which only increases the chances of chaos and fun. We play at The Courts on Monday through Saturday starting at 10 am. See you at the tables! ~ Bob Rubenstein, brube88@gmail.com Spin & Slam Bruce Lee is ready for the play. He shows his skill by an amazing long reach to return the ball. Rob Kelman, his doubles partner, backs away to give Bruce room. FUN FACT: According to the website "Statista" there are 15-16 million recreational ping pong players in the USA. It's the middle of the afternoon and you will hear the rhythmic sound of the tiny ball hitting the table. The weather has turned hot as summer is near. We are in The Courts Multipurpose Room with the comfortable temperature of 70 degrees enjoying the game of Table Tennis. You will hear shouts like these: "Great shot. Wow. Amazing slam. Powerful serve. You have improved so much." We laugh much at the crazy antics of our players. Our time together is all about energetic exercise for both the mind and body, building friendships and having fun. I have talked to many "oldies" ove r the years about playing ping pong and the frequent reply is: "I think that would be too difficult for me." We have many players including me that picked up the paddle with no experience and due to much practice have become competent players. You may surprise yourself by doing the same. You don't know unless you try. Right! Come join us. Get out of the heat and stay cool. If you want more information just email me at baerhuggy@icloud.com. Club play is M-Sat, 2 to 4 pm. We have extra paddles if you need one. Hope to see you soon at The Courts. ~ Mary Baer Table Tennis FUN FACT: According to the website "Statista" there are 15-16 million recreational ping pong players in the ove r the years about playing ping pong and the frequent reply is:

• Cover