Who knew a small addition could make such a big impact? In June, the arrival of a ping-pong table ushered in a new recreational era at The Bandeen Center to the bewilderment of some and the sheer joy of all. Ping pong has now become a favorite option during open gym, attracting veteran players and novices alike.
“There’s something fun about it,” explains co-founder Derek Bandeen. “It’s social without the burden of discomfort. You get to work on hand-eye coordination and relax simultaneously.” Noting that some members arrive at the center one to two hours ahead of their exercise class to rally with each other, Derek loves seeing the players let their hair down—and their competitive juices flow. After heated disputes over whether a ball should stay in play if it hits the ceiling, Mr. Bandeen was asked to issue a ruling. Now, according to the Derek Edict, play continues. “That’s how we do it in Brooklyn!” agrees one of the more determined ping pongers. (And, evidently, in Canada, Derek’s country of origin).
Back in February, participants of the Ping Pong Parkinson’s chapter in New York were invited to a special Bandeen Center workout so they could experience our new facility and learn about our programs. The reception was overwhelmingly positive, but attendees noted that one thing was missing: ping pong. Management warmly embraced the idea, and table tennis commenced.
Front Desk Manager Glizer Araneta is reputed to be one of the stronger staff players, but the members’ relentless stamina keeps him humble. He and his co-worker Luke were already planning their victory lap when they agreed to take on a newcomer in a friendly 2-v-1 game. The pair, however, was decimated by Don and his custom paddle, tenderly referred to as Rosanna. Such a brutal loss taught Glizer and Luke a valuable lesson about the importance of communication. “We just have to keep talking to each other,” Glizer explains, shaking his head in regret. When prompted to identify the most competitive player, Glizer didn’t hesitate. “That would be Billy,” he concludes. Coincidentally, Billy also holds the title of Most Improved Player. Don isn’t the only player who arrives at The Bandeen Center with a nicknamed paddle; another carries the “Blue Pearl” in a custom case. To encourage efficiency, one member donated a ping-pong-ball picker-upper, which they call “the Glopper.”
Research suggests ping pong is especially well-suited to people with Parkinson’s because it engages balance, coordination, rhythm, and focus all at once. Bandeen Center members who are reluctant to play can still get involved in other ways. Some enjoy keeping score, for example, and cheering on the competitors (but really busting their chops, said one member on the condition of anonymity), or collecting the stray balls with the Glopper—in which case, they become the “Gloperator.”
“Ping pong encapsulates all that is fabulous about The Bandeen Center,” remarks Joe, who became a member in March and plays ping pong almost every day he visits 58th and Lexington. “It cultivates a collegial spirit, provides solid exercise, contributes to a friendly environment and gives you an opportunity to practice one-pointed attention; all things that people with Parkinson’s need.” Where does Joe stack up on the center’s ping pong league table? “I’m not the best, but I know how to get in other players’ heads,” he grins. Whether Joe’s mind games will ever earn him edict-writing privileges of his own remains to be seen. Until then, all ceiling-ball disputes are settled the Derek way.
Join us for ping pong Monday-Friday during open gym! We’re also looking forward to hosting a ping pong clinic on Monday, September 9. Register online or call the front desk to sign up, (212) 831-3476.
