Photo by Kevin O’Leary

Table number 25 at PPP is ready for some pong players.

On Feb. 25, one of WJ’s more highly anticipated Pennies for Patients (P4P) events, Pong for Pennies for Patients (PPP), took place in the cafeteria. It’s no secret that February is a crucial and enjoyable period for students and staff. Each year, WJ, a school known for its generous contributions to the Leukemia and Lymphoma society, sets up numerous events to help raise funds for and awareness of these diseases. From the popular Carnival to the new “Mini-thon,” WJ leadership does a tremendous job of entertaining students.

It can be argued that PPP is the month’s most anticipated event. It features a traditional set-up that is comparable to that of water pong. Each team consists of two people fighting to prevail in a tournament of 98 teams. Each person switches off in attempting to shoot a ping pong ball into 6 different cups filled with water. The first team to eliminate all 6 cups wins. The rules, however, are surprisingly complex. First, a rock-paper-scissors battle takes place to determine the team that will start shooting. In addition, in order for a competitor to make a legal shot, they are required to keep their elbow behind the pong table. If the competitors choose, they are allowed to re-arrange the cups into a formation of their choice. Last but not least, if a ball rolls continuously at the top of the cup, it may be blown off by the opponents and discounted.

 This year’s tournament consisted of 98 pairs competing on 40 custom tables that were designed by the leadership class. At the end of the night, two pairs were named costume champions and pong champions. Juniors Grant Anderson and Dillon Jobes, who dressed up as convincing old men, stole the costume crown. However, other pairs planned nifty costumes as well, such as the Chipotle employee theme that seniors Scott Salvatore and Maurice Lehman chose.

Juniors Nathan Bautista and McIvor Saint-Maxens were dominant from their first matchup, and prevailed in the 98-team bracket as outright champions. Boosted by a few close victories, it was no secret that the pair were the most experienced and prepared team. Junior Class Vice President Shashank Narayan spoke highly of their play in the third round.

“They each had a special technique. Nathan flicked his wrist and McIvor had an unusual arch. It seemed as if each time they didn’t execute, they came very close, having the ball make contact with a cup on every shot. They were confident and prepared, which played a large effect on their dominant success,” Narayan said.

Senior Jonathan Zisk enjoyed the event very much and spoke highly of leadership’s preparations.

“Leadership nailed this one. From the music, to the well-designed tables and pizza, there was a little bit of something for everyone. It was a ton of fun,” Zisk said.

In the end, PPP was a huge success yet again, drawing a total of 198 competitors and leaving them well satisfied. Although there are a wide array of events featured in P4P month, PPP’s consistent turnout and attractive premise make it one of WJ’s most popular events. It’s an event that will surely be continued in years to come.