I held a tourney for 30 people over the weekend that will probably earn 16-17 points.
There were several people in attendance who had a shot for a last minute entrance into the Florida SCS, and by the same token, there were people on/near the bubble fighting to keep a spot.
There were also people fighting for the first round bye since we meet the Super State requirements,
In a wild twist, my mom played in her first IFPA event ever. We’ve joked that maybe one day we could have 3 generations of Florida champions.
(Despite having access to games at my house, she will only play FH on occasion. She always asks to play the Bucko game)
As the TD, and her son, I felt double obligation to make her first tourney experience smooth and easy, but mainly fun and introduce her to some nice people. Everyone was extremely supportive (and probably expecting some easy rounds since only last place received a strike)
However, some of the rounds were almost something you’d see on a scripted comedy.
Mom, you’re playing with these people on Kings and Queens
Ok.
It’s your turn,
Ok. How do you start this?
Press this button.
Ok.
Where’s the ball?
Use this lever.
Ok
Now just plunge the ball.
Ok.
The ball drained, Am I done?
No, you get 5 balls. Look down here to see how many you played.
So, use this lever again?
Yes.
Wow, look at the ball hop, this is fun!
Oh no, it drained. Hey, the lever’s not working
Your game is over, See the backglass.
Oh, ok. Is that a good score?
(Spectators clapping)
You won.
Really?
She survived 8 rounds before getting eliminated, playing games she has never played, brought smiles to everyone, including herself, and added a 3rd generation pinball player to the mix
Exciting day. There will be some SCS shakeup though.