Yo Poznan!

You might think ping pong is something you play in a garage. Karol and his crew at Kings of the Table are here to prove otherwise. Not only are they serious contenders in Poland’s growing table tennis scene, but they’ve also got one of the coolest names and most dedicated setups in the region. We joined Karol by the tables—player, coach, and king of the comeback—to talk about the game, the club, and what it really takes to dominate the table.

The Interview

Hey Karol! Let’s start with the name. Who came up with “Kings of the Table”?
Me! It just popped into my head. I said it once and everyone loved it straight away. It stuck—and here we are.

Be honest… how many times did you wreck Tomek and Radek growing up?
Hundreds! But to be fair, I still win, just not as easily these days. They’ve caught up a bit. A bit.

Do you remember your first YouTube video?
Yeah—it was during COVID. Everyone was bored at home and looking for stuff to watch. We were bored too! So it felt like the perfect time to start sharing what we do.

If your playing style was an animal, what would it be?
A lion. Patient, calm… but deadly when the time is right.

You’re locked in a room with one table and one player. Who are you picking?
Timo Boll. In my opinion, the greatest ping pong player of all time. I’d learn more in that hour than in a year.

Who learns faster: kids, adults, or comeback dads with something to prove?
Hahaha definitely kids. No bad habits yet. They absorb everything like sponges.

Do you ever fight with your teammates?

Only on the table! But it’s always in good spirit… most of the time.

What’s one thing ping pong gives you that the gym never will?
Reflexes. Lightning-fast hand-eye coordination. And the ability to read and anticipate your opponent’s next move. It’s chess with sweat.

What’s the big dream for Kings of the Table?
We just moved up to the First League—first time in 25 years for Poznań! But we want more. Next goal? Lotto Superliga, Poland’s top division. We’re hungry.

How can people book a lesson with you guys?
Just hit us up online or give us a call. We’re pretty flexible, but slots fill fast.

What’s something almost everyone thinks they’re doing right, but actually aren’t?

Serving. No doubt. 90% of people think they’re serving correctly, but it’s way more technical than it looks.

How young is your youngest student?
Six years old!

Anyone better than you yet?
Haha not yet… but they’re coming for me, I can feel it.

Ever have someone walk in like they’re hot stuff?
All the time. But I put them straight quickly. Reality check: delivered.

How long until a beginner starts winning games?
Roughly six months. Depends on dedication, but most people start getting decent by then.

You’ve all played together for years—who’s the sore loser?
Tomek. 100%. I’m hot-headed, but he moans for days after a loss. Radek’s chill.

Ping pong or table tennis—what’s the difference?
Same game, but “table tennis” is the sport’s official name. “Ping pong” is more casual. Though we like “ping pong” better—more fun, less serious.

What’s the hardest skill to master?

Footwork. Without it, you’re dead at the higher levels.

Where are the best players in the world from?
China. No question. The last time a non-Chinese man won the World Championship was 2003, and the Olympics in 2004. It’s their national sport, and their training system is insanely disciplined.

Does being a ping pong coach help you meet girls?
Hahaha not really. Unless they’re into ping pong too—then it’s game on. Wink wink.

Are girls as good as boys in this sport?
Unfortunately, not quite. Strength plays a big role. But there are some incredible female players out there, no doubt.

Do paddles actually make a difference?
Absolutely. Table tennis has the biggest equipment variation of any sport—thousands of rubbers and blades. The paddle is everything.

How much do pro paddles cost?
A really good setup can cost about 3000 PLN. But collectors? 10–15,000 GBP easy.

What’s one rule at your academy no one’s allowed to break?
The coach is always right! Hahaha.

Ever lose a match you should’ve won?
Loads. That’s the game. Sometimes you just have a bad day. It happens.

Your proudest win?
Beating a top German player in the Bundesliga. I was down 0–2 and came back to win 3–2. He was the second-best player in Europe at the time.

GOAT (Greatest of All Time)?
Ma Long from China. No contest.

Ever smashed a paddle in frustration?
Three times. I was young though. Last one was over 15 years ago.

Ever walked into a bar, seen a ping pong table, and flexed?
Hahaha yep. If I’m alone, I chill. But if I’ve got a partner with me, then yeah—we show off a little.

Tell us about the club’s structure.
We’ve got 5 teams across different leagues. Everyone’s welcome to try out and earn a spot. We believe in open doors and hard work.

Last one. Why train with Kings of the Table?
Because we’re serious about growth—and we’re the only club in Wielkopolska with kids’ classes. Our U15, U18, and U21 teams compete in the national championships. We’ve got experience, passion, and a solid track record.

Wrapping Up

Ready to rule the table?
Book your spot at Kings of the Table now via our website or give us a ring on +48 794 250 831. Whether you’re a total beginner or an ex-champion brushing off the dust, we’ve got a spot (and a paddle) waiting for you.

Kings of the Table – Where Legends Are Made.