By Mr. Vayani Toney & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The Timothy Greaves Residence Hall community recently celebrated the success of the Dr. Kern Tobias Table Tennis Competition, a newly established event that marked its inaugural run with a blend of enthusiasm, camaraderie, and impressive skill. The competition, spearheaded by Vayani Toney, former Associated Student Body President (2022-2023), was envisioned as a means to strengthen dormitory community engagement and enhance recreational opportunities for residents, especially those passionate about table tennis.
The genesis of this event can be traced back to Toney’s observation of the growing interest in table tennis among both male and female residents. Following discussions with Dr. Kern Tobias and Dr. Colwick Wilson, the concept began to take shape. With the collaborative efforts of the then Men’s Club President, Mr. Delbert Defoe, and his executive team, the competition was meticulously planned and executed over the span of a week, culminating on December 8th, 2022.
The inaugural competition featured a robust roster of talented players, including Jamol Pompey, Reynold Williams, Aubrey Gill, Jad Isidore, Asahel Joseph, Joash Prowell, Jesse Schultz, Akinpelu Williams, Jasiel Toppin, Khadoni Webster, Aziel Hoyte, Ronaldo Stoby, Isaac Patterson, and Jean-Paul Milard. Each player brought their unique flair to the table, turning the event into a thrilling showcase of sportsmanship and skill.
In the gripping finale, Reynold Williams emerged as the champion, while Aubrey Gill earned the title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his exceptional performance and sportsmanship throughout the competition. The event’s success was bolstered by the generous support of sponsors, including Dr. Colwick Wilson, Dr. Kern Tobias, and The Associated Student Body, who provided gifts and prizes for all participants.
The overwhelming positive feedback from the inaugural event led to the announcement that the Dr. Kern Tobias Table Tennis Competition would become an annual tradition, promising future installments filled with excitement and friendly rivalry.
Following a brief hiatus, the second edition of the Dr. Kern Tobias Table Tennis Competition took place from April 11-29, 2024. The event was led by Mr. Jad Isidore, President of the Men’s Club for the 2023-2024 academic year, alongside Mr. Vayani Toney, now serving as the Men’s Club Advisor. This iteration of the competition saw increased interest, with the notable inclusion of the competition’s first female contender, an off-campus resident, adding to the excitement.
The competition featured both seasoned players and fresh talent, with participants such as Jad Isidore, Jesse Shultz, Ethan Leon, Marrio Whyte, Jamol Pompey, Reynold Williams, Latoya Emmanuelson, Reyniel Williams, Nkosi Cato, Lorenzo Constantine, Asahel Joseph, Kahlan Roach, and Akinpleu Williams. In a thrilling conclusion, Ms. Latoya Emmanuelson claimed the championship trophy, making history as the first female winner of the competition. Mr. Jamol Pompey was honored with the MVP award, while Mr. Asahel Joseph received the Most Improved award for his remarkable progress.
Table tennis has solidified its place within the dormitory community, cherished for its blend of competitive spirit and camaraderie. Dr. Kern Tobias, a fervent supporter of such initiatives, has pledged ongoing support for future competitions. As anticipation builds for the 2024-2025 edition, the community looks forward to another exhilarating showcase of athletic prowess and sportsmanship, reinforcing the bonds of the Timothy Greaves community through the love of table tennis.
