In the heart of De Pere, Wisconsin, the rhythmic sound of silver balls careening off bumpers is more than just a pastime – it’s an institution. This was never more apparent than on the night of September 15, 2023, at 6:00 PM, when pinball enthusiasts gathered for the Flipping Friday’s Tournament at District 82 Pinball Arcade. With a gentle breeze, broken clouds, and a pleasant temperature of 72°F, it was the perfect setting for a high-octane showdown.
High Stakes on Dolly Parton
While every game at District 82 has its own story, Round 2’s competition on Dolly Parton by Bally, a gem from 1978, was the stuff of legends. In a gripping face-off, Erik Thoren, the maestro from District 82 Pinball itself, took the lead. Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh wasn’t far behind, with Gregory Hein and Joe DeCleene rounding out the top spots. It was a blend of strategy, timing, and perhaps a little bit of that Dolly magic.
Machines of Legacy and Lore
112 pinball machines were at the players’ disposal, ranging from classics to the more contemporary. “Harley Davidson” by Bally took riders on a thrilling road journey, while “Jurassic Park” by Data East promised prehistoric perils. The celestial adventures of “Guardians of the Galaxy” by Stern proved a hit, as did the high-flying antics on “Flight 2000” and the rock rhythms of “Metallica (Pro LED).” Whether it was the thrill of a car chase on “Corvette” or battling super villains on “X-Men Wolverine (LE),” there was never a dull moment.
Masterminds of the Pinball World
In the end, it was Eric Strangeway, with his experience of 400 IFPA events, who claimed the top spot. Close on his heels was Ryan Cappaert, with Erik Thoren, the man behind the magic of District 82, taking the third position.
The victory was sweet, but the thrill of the game and the camaraderie between players was the real prize. As the standings suggest, Wisconsin’s pinball scene is alive and well:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 1265.3 |
| 2 | Jared August | West Bloomfield Township | 1165.2 |
| 3 | Neil Graf | Appleton | 1143.64 |
| 4 | Escher Lefkoff | 1050.04 | |
| 5 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 998.8 |
| 6 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 737.83 |
| 7 | Jason Werdrick | Park Ridge | 737.43 |
| 8 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 737.24 |
| 9 | David Daluga | Milwaukee | 728.78 |
| 10 | Jordan Dechaine | 683.86 |
More Than Just a Game
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the tournament was the atmosphere of District 82 itself. Rows upon rows of machines, the glow of neon lights, and the unmistakable hum of electronics in the background. As the venue’s website aptly puts it: “It’s such a great place, tons of pinball machines. Never-ending fun!!”
With a memorable evening behind them, pinball enthusiasts left District 82, but not without the promise of returning soon. After all, in the realm of pinball, every game is a new adventure.
Stay flippin’ fabulous, and until the next update!