Every Friday at 1 p.m., the sound of ping pong balls bouncing and students cheering fills The Cave at Lethbridge Polytechnic. The weekly ping pong tournament is not just about competition. It is about building a community, bringing students together, and creating a fun way to relieve stress from academic pressures.

Business Management student Bolaji Sofola is one of the many participants who eagerly joins the tourney each week. For him, the event is more than just a game. It helps him relax and gives him the opportunity to meet people from different cultures on campus.

“The ping pong tourney helps me wear off stress and also gives me the chance to meet with a group of diverse students,” said Sofola. “It is free, there are lots of prizes to be won, and it is always fun to join.”

The Student Association at Lethbridge Polytechnic leads the initiative with a focus on fostering student connections. JP Gentiles, the Student Association Coordinator, highlights the importance of such events in creating a welcoming atmosphere on campus.

“We are trying to create an impact with students, and we understand that studying can be stressful,” said Gentiles. “This tourney is a way to cool off. We make sure it is free. There is no need to register. All they have to do is show up in The Cave at 1 p.m. on Fridays. The major motivator is community building among campus students.”

With no registration required and an open invitation to all, the ping pong tournament continues to bring students together in a friendly and competitive setting. The event is open to male and female Lethbridge Polytechnic students, University of Lethbridge students, and members of the community. Whether they join for the prizes, the excitement, or simply to unwind, participants are finding great value in this weekly event that keeps spirits high and stress levels low.