Improvements for use with table games include a first set of improvements which allow a player of a table game to more securely hold a paddle used in playing the table game. A second set of improvements provides a visual barrier which obscures a player's view of a playing surface of a game table, providing for more dynamic, challenging and entertaining play. A third set of improvements provides an elevated platform allowing players of significantly differing heights to comfortably, conveniently and safely use a table game with a table surface of a fixed height.