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Building Camaraderie, One Match at a Time: The St. Thomas More Staff Ping Pong Club

At St. Thomas More Catholic School (STM), a simple game of ping pong has transformed into a tradition of connection, laughter and friendly competition. What started as an annual Catholic Schools Week event has blossomed into a beloved weekly gathering where teachers come together to unwind, bond and grow together in fellowship.

A few years ago, teachers Liz Moore and Holly Wheeler noticed something special happening during Catholic Schools Week. Each year, students and teachers would compete in spirited ping pong matches, culminating in a thrilling face-off between the student and teacher champions. Something alums will remember, for sure!

The energy was infectious, and the teachers found themselves wishing the excitement didn’t have to end. So they made sure it didn’t. And just like that, the STM Staff Ping Pong Club was born.

Every Friday after school, educators from various grade levels come together to play and connect. The club isn’t about keeping score or showcasing professional skills; it’s about fostering friendships with colleagues and offering a much-needed breather after a long week. 

“We partner with different people depending on who can attend and how many players we have. It’s a wonderful way to unwind at the end of a busy week and build relationships with other teachers—especially those we don’t get to interact with often. It’s not just about the game; it’s about coming together, sharing a laugh and fostering a sense of community among colleagues,” says Holly Wheeler.

We love that the Ping Pong Club has become a space for shared joy. 

As the tradition continues, it stands as a testament to the close-knit community that St. Thomas More teachers have built—one rally at a time. 

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Read more about the stories that make the Consortium schools the special places they are.