Pinball Magic at District 82: D82 Flippin’ Friday May 3rd

On a perfect spring evening, pinball enthusiasts flocked to District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin, for the D82 Flippin’ Friday May 3rd Qualify tournament. With 17 skilled players and an array of classic and modern machines, the event promised excitement, drama, and nail-biting finishes. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as players prepared for four rounds of intense competition, each consisting of two games.

District 82: A Pinball Paradise

District 82 Pinball is a haven for pinball aficionados. Open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from September to May, this venue boasts over 100 meticulously maintained machines. With a set fee for unlimited play, soda and water available, and the option to bring your own drinks, it’s the perfect spot for groups and families. The venue’s welcoming vibe and top-notch machines make it a must-visit for pinball lovers.

The Knockout Gauntlet: Four Rounds of High Stakes

The tournament’s format kept everyone on their toes, with 17 players competing in four rounds, each featuring two games. The stakes were high, and the competition was fierce, but the camaraderie and sportsmanship shone through.

Strikes and Spares: A Classic Duel

One of the most memorable moments of the night occurred in Round 1 on Strikes and Spares by Bally, released in June 1978. This vintage machine, known for its bowling theme and engaging gameplay, set the stage for an epic showdown.

  1. Buck Bauer from Appleton, WI (IFPA rank 13294) emerged victorious, showcasing his impressive skills and knowledge of the game’s mechanics.
  2. Tara Henjum from Green Bay (IFPA rank 1474) fought valiantly, demonstrating her strategic prowess and earning a respectable second place.
  3. Gregory Hein from Appleton, WI (IFPA rank 590) secured third place, showing why he’s a formidable competitor.
  4. John Penokie (IFPA rank 1626) rounded out the top four, impressing everyone with his tenacity and skill.

Triumph and Tenacity: Tournament Champions

As the final round concluded and the scores were tallied, the top players of the D82 Flippin’ Friday May 3rd Qualify tournament were announced. The champions displayed remarkable skill, strategy, and determination:

  1. Tara Henjum from Green Bay (IFPA rank 1474) – With 309 total IFPA events, Tara’s experience and strategic acumen earned her the top spot.
  2. Erik Thoren from District 82 Pinball (IFPA rank 77) – The tournament director and a seasoned competitor, Erik’s consistent performance secured him second place.
  3. Chuck Blohm from De Pere, WI (IFPA rank 763) – Chuck’s high ranking and tactical gameplay landed him in third place.
  4. Matt McCarty (IFPA rank 199) – Another tournament director, Matt’s extensive experience and skill were evident as he finished in fourth place.

The Stars of the Arcade: Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament featured 116 pinball machines, each contributing to the event’s excitement. Here are five standout machines that added a unique flavor to the competition:

  1. BMX by Bally (1982) – Known for its fast-paced, trick-riding theme, this machine challenges players with its unique layout and scoring mechanics.
  2. Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines by Stern (2003) – This machine’s intense gameplay and iconic theme kept players on the edge of their seats.
  3. Mousin’ Around! by Bally (1989) – With its whimsical theme and complex playfield, this machine was a crowd favorite.
  4. Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern (2014) – Combining rock and roll with fast action, this machine tested players’ reflexes and strategy.
  5. Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally (1978) – A classic that combines sports and pinball, its engaging gameplay and vibrant design make it a timeless favorite.

Cheers to the Organizers: A Heartfelt Thank You

A huge thank you to Erik Thoren, the dedicated organizer who made D82 Flippin’ Friday May 3rd Qualify a roaring success, and to District 82 Pinball for providing such a vibrant and welcoming venue. The dedication and hard work behind the scenes made this tournament an unforgettable experience for all involved.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the world of pinball. The next tournament is just around the corner, promising more excitement, strategy, and unforgettable moments.

Unveiling Pinball Spectacle: D82 Flippin’ Friday April Qualifier

Delve into Pinball Frenzy:

Prepare for a whirlwind of excitement at the D82 Flippin’ Friday April 26th Qualify tournament, hosted by none other than Erik Thoren at District 82 Pinball. On April 26, 2024, at 6:00 PM, 17 players gathered to compete in four intense rounds, with two games per round, amidst the ambiance of light rain and a cozy temperature of 55°F.

Illuminating Pinball Mastery:

Round 3 stole the spotlight as players faced off on Whirlwind by Williams (January 1990). Chrissy Klitzke from Appleton emerged triumphant, showcasing her finesse on the playfield. Scott LaPlante from Green Bay followed closely behind, demonstrating his skill and determination.

Champions of the Flipper Realm:

Let’s celebrate the victors of this gripping tournament:

  1. Erik Thoren – Leading the pack, Erik’s mastery of the game shines through, securing his place at the top of the podium.
  2. Chuck Blohm – A formidable competitor, Chuck’s strategic prowess earns him a well-deserved second place.
  3. Peter Goeben – Hailing from De Pere, Peter’s impressive performance lands him in third place, showcasing his dedication to the game.
  4. Scott LaPlante – Despite tough competition, Scott’s skill and tenacity earn him a respectable fourth place finish.

*Pronouns are provided only if required

Journey Through Pinball Realms:

Explore the diverse array of pinball machines featured at the tournament, including:

  • Six Million Dollar Man by Bally: Step into the world of espionage and intrigue with this classic machine, released in August 1977.
  • Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern: Rock out to the tunes of Metallica with this electrifying machine, released in August 2014.
  • WWF Royal Rumble by Data East: Step into the wrestling ring with this action-packed machine, released in May 1994.
  • Pharaoh by Williams: Embark on an ancient Egyptian adventure with this captivating machine, released in May 1981.
  • Volley by Gottlieb: Serve up some fun with this retro volleyball-themed machine, released in August 1976.

Venue Vibes and Pinball Passion:

Experience the magic of District 82 Pinball Arcade, where every flipper flip and bumper bounce is met with excitement and anticipation. From its top-notch machines to its immaculate maintenance, District 82 offers a haven for pinball enthusiasts. Visitors from New York flew in to experience the thrill firsthand, marveling at the owner’s dedication and passion for the game.

Closing Cheers:

A heartfelt thank you to Erik Thoren for organizing such a spectacular tournament, and to District 82 Pinball Arcade for providing the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of pinball madness. Stay tuned for more updates from the dynamic world of pinball!

Flippin’ Friday Showdown at District 82

The D82 Flippin’ Friday event on April 19, 2024, at District 82 Pinball, brought together 35 avid pinball players for a spirited tournament. Hosted in the cool and overcast setting of De Pere, Wisconsin, by Erik Thoren, the competition spanned four rounds, each round comprising two games and lasting nearly three hours in total.

Intense Battles on Pool Sharks in Round 4

The fourth round featured an intense match on the vintage Pool Sharks pinball machine by Bally, dating back to 1990. Bret Derby led the pack with his exceptional skills, closely followed by tournament director Erik Thoren, with Danny Bronny and Josh Grube also showing strong performances.

Honoring the Tournament’s Standout Players

The tournament recognized the top competitors for their exceptional gameplay:

  1. Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh, WI, demonstrated strategic finesse, securing first place with his extensive experience in 455 IFPA events.
  2. Erik Thoren, both an organizer and a competitor from De Pere, WI, used his deep knowledge of pinball to earn the second spot in his 417th IFPA competition.
  3. Tom Graf, a veteran of the pinball circuit with 563 IFPA events to his name, claimed third place.
  4. Adam VanDynHoven from Appleton, WI, impressed with his determination, rounding out the top four.

Featured Machines: A Closer Look at the Legends

The tournament showcased a rich variety of 116 pinball machines, with each providing a unique gameplay experience:

  • Iron Man (Vault) by Stern: Known for its high-energy gameplay, this machine challenges players to battle iconic villains from the Iron Man universe, featuring rapid-fire multiball events and a challenging layout that rewards sharpshooting.
  • The Sopranos by Stern: This machine immerses players in the gritty world of Tony Soprano with missions that mimic the TV show’s plots, offering complex multiball modes and interactive mafia-related targets that enhance the storytelling element.
  • Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern: Released in 2023, this machine captures the essence of the band with its dynamic sound system playing iconic tracks, and includes features like band-themed playfield art and concert-style lighting effects that engage players in the rock and roll spirit.
  • Theatre of Magic by Bally: Appeals to players with its visually stunning magical motifs and tricks. As players navigate the game, they trigger illusions and magic tricks that not only dazzle but also strategically advance gameplay through hidden compartments and rotating playfield elements.
  • WWF Royal Rumble by Data East: This wrestling-themed machine features iconic wrestlers and offers a tag-team gameplay style, complete with body-slam multiballs and a Royal Rumble match that pits players against a cascade of wrestling challenges.

District 82 Pinball: A Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts

Located at 800 O Keefe Road, De Pere, WI, District 82 Pinball Arcade proved to be an excellent venue, with machines in pristine condition and an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm. The care taken in maintaining each pinball machine and the warm welcome given to out-of-town guests like us from New York highlighted the arcade’s commitment to quality and community.

Closing Thanks

A heartfelt thank you to Erik Thoren for orchestrating such a well-organized event and to District 82 Pinball for providing the perfect setting for this pinball adventure. The pinball community continues to thrive through these gatherings, and we look forward to bringing more news and updates from the exciting world of pinball competitions. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates!

Classic Pinball Showdown at D82 Saturday Night

Inside the Tournament

On a crisp April evening, the District 82 Saturday Night Classics pinball tournament captivated enthusiasts and players alike. Held at District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin, and meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, this tournament drew a crowd of 65 competitors who battled it out over 7 rounds and 2 games each. With clear skies and a cool atmosphere, players were in high spirits as they vied for the top 24 spots to advance into an intense final consisting of 4 rounds with 3 games each.

Semifinal Spotlight: Dolly Parton by Bally

In the heat of the semifinals, a thrilling game on Dolly Parton by Bally took center stage. Erik Thoren, not just the organizer but also a formidable competitor, clinched first place in this round, showing off his deep understanding of the game. He was followed by Nathan Zalewski, Jason Werdrick, and Rick Miller in a closely fought contest that was a highlight of the evening.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with some outstanding performances. Erik Thoren secured the championship position, adding yet another win to his impressive pinball resume. Nathan Zalewski followed in second place, with Ryan Eggers and Tom Graf rounding out the top four. Special mentions go to Jeff Asman, Jason Werdrick, Adam VanDynHoven, and Rick Miller, who all placed in the top eight, showcasing great skill and strategy.

Featured Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic array of 46 pinball machines, each contributing to the day’s challenges and excitement:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe (LE) by Bally: Renowned for its challenging gameplay and strategic ball control.
  • Hot Hand by Stern Electronics: Captures attention with its unique rotating flipper.
  • Hi-Deal by Bally: Known for its fast-paced play and retro charm.
  • Strikes and Spares by Bally: Combines bowling and pinball for a unique twist.
  • Frontier by Bally: Offers players a rugged wilderness theme with intricate gameplay.
  • Magic by Stern Electronics: Enchants players with its mystical artwork and classic pinball layout.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally: Provides a fun and dynamic basketball-themed game.
  • Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics: Features a futuristic space travel theme with advanced features for its time.
  • Mata Hari by Bally: Delves into espionage with its spy-themed playfield and mechanics.

Venue and Experience

Traveling all the way from New York for the tournament, the experience at District 82 was nothing short of spectacular. The venue boasted an exceptional collection of well-maintained pinball machines, reflecting the owner’s passion and dedication to the pinball community. The welcoming atmosphere made it a memorable visit for out-of-towners and locals alike.

Gratitude and Farewell

A massive thank you to Erik Thoren for organizing such a thrilling and smooth-running tournament and to District 82 Pinball for providing an impeccable venue for this classic pinball showdown. Your hard work and hospitality have undoubtedly enriched the pinball community.

Keep up with GobbleHole for more recaps and features from the pulsating world of pinball tournaments across the United States!