An Innovative Take on a Classic Party Tradition

“It’s perfect for tailgates, parties and creating a fun atmosphere at any university where college students can enjoy playing,” Dillon Fink, a second-year mechanical engineering student recently told the Collegian about his class-project-turned-thriving-business Whirl Pong.

Fink envisioned a way to bring new life to a renowned party game. Whirl Pong is a spinning cup-pong game that’s automatic, rechargeable, and looking to become the centerpiece of tailgates, parties, and social gatherings. He originally came up with the concept at a Gameday Ventures tailgate event hosted by the Engineering Entrepreneurship Program, then used a class assignment in Engineering 310 to develop the idea. The course, Entrepreneurial Leadership, includes an assignment to advance a business idea, so Fink was able to use class time and even some financial resources from the department to get up Whirl Pong.   

For Fink, entrepreneurship is about more than just business; it’s about harnessing creativity and delivering value. His journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Every day presented a new hurdle, from refining the prototype to engaging in months of discussions and design iterations. But the hard work has paid off. Fink now proudly boasts an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) that’s starting to make waves in the market.

Fink is seeing his marketing strategy, which includes Amazon ads and other digital marketing pay off in sales. The Basement Nightspot now hosts Whirl Pong tournaments and Fink is set to host an event sponsored by Bud Light featuring the product.

Professor Frank Koe taught ENGR 310, and told the Collegian Fink “was extremely attentive, followed the course closely and already had a natural entrepreneurial drive before he even walked through the door.”