If you missed the short film documentary “Top Spin” on the film festival circuit, you have a chance to see it online. Imagine the smell of fresh rubber paddles, hollow plastic balls whirling by at 80 mph, and exclamations of victory interrupted by bitter cries of defeat. Welcome to the world of competitive table tennis. With hard work and family sacrifice, a young table tennis champion works towards becoming one of the top players in the world — Ariel Hsing exudes a quiet confidence and intensity that rivals any young professional athlete working hard to become a promising Olympic champion. However, Ariel’s story goes beyond her personal dedication and also reveals the family sacrifices that foster her talent. With the pressures of rigorous training, international tournaments, schoolwork and SAT’s — is it all worth it in the end?

Top Spin : short film