As the new film Marty Supreme spotlights the sport of table tennis, it also shines a spotlight on the inspiring story of Yasiris Ortiz, a Bronx-based champion whose journey from international competition to grassroots empowerment embodies the film’s core themes of discipline, belief, and dreaming beyond circumstance.
Ortiz’s cameo in Marty Supreme is more than acting; it’s a true reflection of her life. A professional table tennis player and community leader, she uses the sport as a catalyst for youth development and social change. Born in the Dominican Republic, Ortiz discovered table tennis early and traveled the world representing her country, experiencing firsthand how sport can open doors.
Arriving in New York City in 2016, Ortiz faced the challenges of adapting to a new country while rebuilding her athletic career. Her perseverance led her to teach in the Bronx, where she saw the transformative power of table tennis in educating and empowering young students. This inspired her to create Spin & Learn, an organization combining table tennis with academics, fitness, and social-emotional learning. Since 2020, Spin & Learn has served over 45 schools across NYC, fostering skills, confidence, and belonging among thousands of students.
Now, Ortiz is launching the Spin & Learn Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access beyond schools into broader communities. Focused on serving economically disadvantaged youth, families, and seniors, the foundation aims to provide ongoing opportunities for growth, wellness, and leadership through table tennis and community engagement.
Ortiz emphasizes the importance of representation paired with access. “Seeing the sport on screen is powerful,” she says, “but real change happens where there are opportunities—schools, communities, shared spaces—where young people can learn, grow, and realize their potential.”
With the film Marty Supreme amplifying her story, Ortiz’s work continues to demonstrate that sport is a tool, but discipline, mentorship, and belief are what truly transform lives. Her mission: turn cinematic inspiration into lasting community impact, one paddle at a time.
To learn more, visit Spin & Learn online at https://spinandlearn.com/, call 718-690-1673 or email info@spinandlearn.com.