Local table tennis league

A new table tennis league at West Village at South Wharf is working to fight loneliness and build friendships.

The second Melbourne competition run by Pulse Leagues, starting on April 19, gives everyone a chance to have a beer, play a game and meet new people.

“I am going to see how it goes and hope that those looking to meet new friends and widen their social circle get involved,” founder John Dalrymple said.

The leagues aims to combat loneliness in the community, an issue Mr Dalrymple faced when he first arrived in Australia.

“I joined groups to widen my circle of friends but my work schedule got in the way, which meant I came across a bit unreliable and that’s not a great way to make mates,” he said.

The group most affected by loneliness in Australia is men aged 25 to 40.

He quit his job last year to focus on the project that has already come a long way but he hopes the leagues will continue to grow.

“There is certainly room for more and if any bar wants to run a league or if potential players know of a bar by them that would be perfect, then I’d love to hear from them,” he said.