09.22.2023

The Evolution of Ping Pong

From Gossima to Hand-Crafted Concrete Tables

Among the games available from Hart Concrete Design is ping pong! In the world of indoor/outdoor sports and recreational activities, few games hold the timeless charm and competitive spirit quite like ping pong. The history of this beloved game stretches back to the 1800s when Jaques of London introduced their innovative GOSSIMA game. However, its path to success was not without its share of trials and errors.

A Bumpy Beginning

The early days of ping pong were marked by experimentation with different ball materials. In these initial attempts, the rubber ball proved to have an excessively wild bounce, while the cork ball's bounce left much to be desired. It was clear that something needed to change to make the game truly enjoyable.

The Game-Changer: Celluloid Balls

The turning point for ping pong came with the introduction of the celluloid ball. This revolutionary material offered the perfect balance of bounce and control, transforming the concept of playing tennis on a table into a resounding success. With the celluloid ball, the game became more accessible and exhilarating than ever before.

The Birth of "Ping Pong"

While the game itself was evolving, so too was its name. The term "Ping Pong" can be traced back to an 1884 song by Harry Dacre, where it was first used in a musical context. However, it wasn't long before the distinct sound of the celluloid ball bouncing off drum-like rackets led to its adoption as the official name of the game. Even in more recent times, this unmistakable sound has made its mark, as heard in Enrique Iglesias' hit song "Do You Know?" also known as "The Ping Pong Song."

Ping Pong's Enduring Appeal

Today, ping pong remains a favorite pastime for people of all ages. Its simplicity, fast-paced nature, and competitive edge continue to captivate players and spectators alike. But what if you could take this classic game to the next level?

Elevating Ping Pong with Hand-Crafted Concrete Tables

Enter Kyle Hart and his dedicated team, who have taken ping pong to a whole new level with their hand-crafted concrete tables. These commercial-ready indoor/outdoor tables are not just about the game; they are a work of art.

Here's what sets them apart:

1. Sturdy Support Styles: Choose from three attractive support styles – the classic concrete column, the timeless hardwood slat-based design, or the modern powder-coated X-frame. Each style adds a unique touch to your ping pong experience.

2. A Rainbow of Colors: Concrete doesn't mean dull and gray. Kyle Hart offers these tables in seven beautiful colors, allowing you to match them perfectly with your space and style.

3. Premium Quality Net: The net, made of powder-coated stainless steel, embodies the Hart Concrete Design "HCD" symbol, a mark of unparalleled quality.

4. Custom Table Stripes: To make your table even more unique, you can opt for table stripes. These are meticulously applied using exterior-grade paint after the concrete is polished, and then they are waxed for a flawless finish.