Makoto Tsukimoto, nicknamed Smile, is a reserved high school student who has been friends with the boisterous and energetic Yutaka Hoshino, nicknamed Peco, since childhood. They both belong to the local table tennis club and possess a natural aptitude for the sport, though Smile's demeanor consistently keeps him from defeating Peco. The club instructor, however, recognizes Smile's potential and attempts to instill some athletic grit in him.