We aren't in Kansas anymore. (We're we ever?)
The preseason and first few games of the regular season have come and gone and we are moving into the middle portion of league play. This is typically where we start to see fatigue set in for many of the competitors. Injuries, school projects/tests, and new this year, COVID protocols, really factor into athletes ability to focus on what matters most: Ping-Pong. With outside pressure mounting from various fan-bases, playoffs looming in the distance, and a grand prize to play for, the stakes can be too high for certain players. It will be interesting to see which players are able to overcome these challenges, and which players aren't...
The media has been buzzing with various dramas and rumors happening within the league. There has been word of collusion, under the table betting, and intentional forfeits taking place that would completely undermine the integrity of the league and leadership. Program officials will be on high alert moving forward to make sure they control as much as they can in an effort to save face and save the season from crumbling underneath.
When asked what the term "first pancake" means to him, Mr. Bokov replied, "It always crumbles." We took this to mean that with every new beginning there will be a period of struggle, but with the right adjustments and some patience, success can be achieved. How does this relate to Ping-Pong? We don't know.
Good luck to all the Pongers out there. May the Ping be ever in your favor...