At the University of Kentucky, sports are more than just a pastime — they’re a way of life.

With 25 ranked sports teams, including a powerhouse basketball program currently ranked within the top 15 in the nation, Big Blue Nation attracts students from all walks of life. But, beyond the stadium lights and roaring crowds lies a quieter, emerging passion: table tennis.

This unassuming sport is carving out its own space at UK, transitioning from a niche hobby to an official club sport. Leading the charge is Noah Shofner, the president of UK’s club table tennis team, whose journey to leadership began in the most unexpected of places — a dorm common room.

“When I came to UK, I was in Holmes Hall, and there was a table tennis table downstairs,” Shofner shared. “My friends just wanted to play. One of them got super into it and joined the table tennis club. He brought me into it.”

Despite having no prior leadership experience or formal training in the sport, Shofner has embraced his role with enthusiasm and determination, proving that passion and dedication can outweigh credentials.

“It’s kind of my first time doing it, so it’s been a learning curve,” Shofner admitted. “But, I think it has helped me grow my communication and organization skills a lot.”

That simple introduction soon led to something much bigger. As Shofner fine-tuned his skills and became a regular at club meetings, he found himself drawn deeper into the group’s activities. It wasn’t long before opportunity knocked.

“The advisor of the organization (Cruz Cardona) came to the original members and brought up the idea of turning the organization into a club,” Shofner recalled. “He gave us officer positions and kind of needed people to fill the roles. I filled in as vice president… and then this coming year, my friend who was president transferred, and I just stepped into the role.”

The shift from an organization to a club opened new doors for its members. What was once an informal gathering with just two tables has evolved into a thriving community with six tables and a dedicated space at the Seaton Center, and up to thirty members partake in the club’s activities.

Practice sessions for UK’s club table tennis team are more than just a chance to improve technique — they’re a cornerstone of the team’s growing community. Held in their newly reserved space, practices provide an opportunity for members of all skill levels to come together, share tips and sharpen their game.

Shofner mentioned that the team’s practices are centered around honing essential skills, such as mastering forehands and backhands, before transitioning into practice matches where members put their techniques to the test in competitive, yet supportive games.

Adding to the team’s diverse roster is a standout player from Chile, Felipe Gonzalez Seguel, who brings the unique experience of competing at the national level in their home country.

“He was in the club before it became a club sport and actually became one of our officers this past semester,” Shofner said. “He is very involved and helps with the training during practices because he is the most experienced.”

As table tennis continues to gain momentum at the University of Kentucky, much of its growth can be traced back to the leadership and passion of Shofner. From a humble beginning in Holmes hall to guiding the team through its transformation into an official club sport, Shofner’s journey reflects the power of dedication and a willingness to step up.

Despite no prior experience in leadership or competitive table tennis, he has not only built a thriving community, but also grown alongside it, mastering skills that will serve him far beyond the game. Under his guidance, the future of UK’s table tennis club looks brighter than ever, proving that, sometimes, all it takes to make an impact is the courage to take the first step.

Practices with the UK club table tennis team start on Feb. 11 from 6:45 to 9 p.m. ET inside the Seaton Center.