The History of Pong at Dartmouth

Pong at Dartmouth College has a rich and storied history that dates back several decades. What began as a simple drinking game has evolved into a beloved tradition that connects generations of Dartmouth students and alumni.

The Origins

The exact origins of pong at Dartmouth are somewhat murky, with different fraternities claiming to be the birthplace of the game. Most accounts suggest that the game began to take shape in the basements of Dartmouth's Greek houses in the 1950s and 1960s.

Unlike the ping pong-derived game played at other colleges, Dartmouth pong has its own unique set of rules and variations. The traditional game is played on a table approximately 8 feet long, with cups arranged in specific formations at each end.

Evolution of the Game

Over the decades, the game has evolved to include numerous variations, each with its own set of rules and cup arrangements:

Each fraternity and sorority house often has its own house rules and preferred variations, adding to the rich tapestry of pong culture at Dartmouth.

Cultural Significance

Pong is more than just a game at Dartmouth—it's a social institution. For many students, the pong table is where friendships are formed, where class and social boundaries dissolve, and where Dartmouth traditions are passed down from one generation to the next.

Alumni often speak fondly of their pong days, and many continue to play at reunions and alumni gatherings. The game serves as a common thread that connects the Dartmouth experience across decades.

Modern Day

Today, pong remains a central part of Dartmouth's social scene. While the college has implemented various policies over the years to promote responsible drinking, the game itself continues to thrive.

The Dartmouth Pong Pack allows alumni and fans to bring a piece of this tradition home, complete with official green cups and regulation balls. It's a way to share the Dartmouth experience with friends and family, and to keep the tradition alive beyond the confines of Hanover.

Whether you're a current student, a recent graduate, or an alum from decades past, pong remains a uniquely Dartmouth experience—a tradition that continues to bring the Dartmouth community together, one cup at a time.