Table tennis is a summer Olympic sport, and while it may not have the following of swimming or gymnastics, it inspires fierce competition in those who play.
Dozens of people have signed up right here in Knoxville for the Foothills Gold-Dollar Upset Table Tennis Tournament.
The 14th annual event is happening this weekend at the YWCA in East Knoxville, and Friday players showed up early to practice.
42 players have signed up so far, and the winner of each match receives a gold dollar.
Organizers say the experience is lasting.
"The advanced players are always trying to shepherd the younger players along. Sometimes they bring them along from their own clubs, and it's usually quite an endearing relationship that builds up over time," said Archie Jordan, president of the Knoxville Table Tennis Club.
The Table Tennis Club says several players who participated in its tournaments in the past actually took part in the U.S. Olympic trials this year.