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The department hopes youngsters can learn and benefit from a sport that could help their overall health.
“There are lots of benefits — brain development, hand-eye coordination,” said Sudeshna "Sue" Chakravorty, a Dumont mother-of-two who owns the gym.
Chakravorty represented India, her native country, in the 2001 Commonwealth Ping Pong Games.
“You improve your team spirit, your game, and the sport is less likely to cause injuries compared to soccer and basketball," Chakravorty said.
Chakravorty's gym, which is affiliated with USA Table Tennis, also has locations in Ridgefield Park, Paramus, Tenafly and Fort Lee, that cater to youngsters through adults age 55 older.
On January 19, the Leonia location will offer sessions for youngster who have autism.
“Ping pong is a really small ball - you need to learn lots of coordination. You have to be ready all of the time when the ball is coming.”
Right now, Chakravorty is trying to reach doctors, clinics and anyone in contact with youngsters to let them know about the program, especially as an alternative to video games.
She is also contacting organizations and is asking for volunteers to spend time with parents and children.
Chakravorty hopes the popularity of the sport will increase and to see others advance to higher levels of competition.
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