The D82 Summer Pinball Classic 8 Fair Strike Knockout took over District 82 Pinball on August 17th, 2024, turning a cloudy afternoon into a heated showdown of flippers and fast reflexes. Sixty-seven players went head-to-head over 14 intense rounds, each vying to outlast their competition while avoiding the dreaded eight strikes that would send them packing. This was no walk in the park—everyone from seasoned pros to eager newcomers faced off in this knockout format. In the end, only the best would survive the relentless march of strikes in a tournament that lasted just over five hours.
A Pinball Oasis in De Pere
District 82 Pinball Arcade, tucked away on O Keefe Road in De Pere, WI, is more than just a collection of machines; it’s a pinball player’s paradise. The moment you walk in, the hum of perfectly maintained machines greets you, each one in top condition and ready to challenge even the most skilled players. The owner, Erik Thoren, clearly pours his passion into the place, making it a welcoming hub for both locals and visitors from far away. Players fly in from all over the country—New York, Texas, you name it—just to experience the unmatched quality and competitive atmosphere here. It’s no wonder District 82 has become a go-to destination for serious pinball enthusiasts.
KISS in the Spotlight
One of the most thrilling matches took place right at the start on Stern’s KISS (Pro) machine. Picture this: Joe Reynolds, ranked 177th in the state, faced off against heavy hitters like Cody Webb (65th), Austin Trent (95th), and Tom Menge (56th). It was a classic underdog story, with Reynolds channeling his inner rock star and dominating the “Rock City” mode, where players need to hit every shot to light up the city. Despite the odds, Joe walked away with a first-place finish, proving that in pinball, sometimes it’s the unranked hero who steals the show.
Machines that Made Waves
With 114 different machines to choose from, the tournament was a true test of versatility and skill. Among the standouts were Stern’s Star Trek (Premium), where players engage in a mission-based gameplay straight out of the iconic franchise. Then there was White Water by Williams, a fan favorite for its unique ramp layout and thrilling whirlpool effect. For those who love classic challenges, Pharaoh by Williams and Mystic by Bally provided vintage thrills with their intricate playfields and challenging targets. Meanwhile, newer titles like Foo Fighters (Pro) and Rush (Pro) by Stern showcased the latest in pinball innovation, combining cutting-edge design with fast-paced action. And let’s not forget Theatre of Magic by Bally, where players are drawn into a world of illusions and magic tricks, making it a hit at every tournament.
Champions Who Battled Through the Ranks
Out of 67 fierce competitors, four players emerged victorious after hours of intense gameplay. Here’s a look at who took the top spots:
- Steven Bowden – A pinball legend, Steven came in as the favorite and lived up to the hype, securing first place with an IFPA rank of 10. With a staggering 929 events under his belt, his victory was well-deserved.
- Jane Verwys – Hailing from Chicago, Jane fought her way to second place, showing that her 64th state rank and 481st IFPA rank are no fluke. Her experience in 502 events shone through in this tournament.
- Carlos Delaserda – Another top contender, Carlos took third place, adding to his impressive track record with an IFPA rank of 14. His skill and strategy in 501 events were on full display.
- Jack Slovacek – Rounding out the top four, Jack put up a tough fight, proving his place among Wisconsin’s elite with a 73rd IFPA rank.
Wisconsin’s Top Pinball Wizards
Here’s how the top ten pinball players in Wisconsin stand after this latest tournament:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 623.04 |
| 2 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 612.32 |
| 3 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 590.52 |
| 4 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 560.11 |
| 5 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 469.13 |
| 6 | Nathan Zalewski | Stevens Point | 466.51 |
| 7 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 441.13 |
| 8 | Neil Graf | Appleton | 416.3 |
| 9 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 414.61 |
| 10 | Drew Geigel | Manitowoc | 399.17 |
Wrapping Up the Classic
The D82 Summer Pinball Classic was a rollercoaster of emotions, skill, and pure pinball action. Congratulations to Steven Bowden for his incredible win, adding another trophy to his already impressive collection. And a big shoutout to all the competitors who brought their A-game to District 82, making it an event to remember.
For those who haven’t yet made the pilgrimage to District 82, what are you waiting for? It’s a must-visit for any serious pinball player. Whether you’re in it for the competition or just looking to enjoy some of the best-maintained machines in the country, District 82 has you covered. Follow along for more pinball news and a recap of past events. See you on the flippers!