WASPA standings of December 2020

Dear Subbuteo friends, 

first of all let me wish you a very good year 2021. Let's hope we can have a normal life again and develop new projects.

Excel file with the rankings and statistics

PDF file with the results of tournaments

You will find in the updated results, rankings and statistics of the WASPA circuit. We had 10 tournaments in December and due to the virus, the majority of events was held in the Southern hemisphere (South africa and Australia). We were glad to see some action in Malta and england as well but in many countries, we are very far to see things back to normal. It will probably take a few months before national associations re-start their activities.

Brian and Nick Pearson

If you check the results of events played in December you will see that Nick and Brian Pearson were in action. It's interesting to share the story of the two brothers. Brian won the tournament in Perth (Australia) while Nick was runner-up in Burnley (England). Brian and Nick played Subbuteo together in the 70s and 80s. Nick started again last year with the guys in the North East of England like Mike Parnaby and his friends. Unfortunately, in Februaru his brother Robert passed away and Brian travelled from Australie for the funera. During his stay in England, the two brothers played Subbuteo again for the first time in 30 years. When Brian travelled back to Australia, Nick contacted Alan Kimber at the Perth club and in turn Alan invited Brian along, and now Brian won his first WASPA tournament, which is a great achievement. It was great also to see that Subbuteo brought the brian and Nick together after the loss of their brother. Thanks to Nick for telling us this story. We are very proud at WASPA to see things like that happen ;-)

As for the rankings, there are not many changes in December but you will see Englad and Greece share the first spot in the ranking of nations by places, which is quite unusual.

The Flaming Flickers SC (top clubs) and Johannesburg TFC (Development league) are the solid leaders in the rankings of clubs.

Players at the latest Western Sydney tournament

If you have a minute, please take a look at the WASPA page of clubs and see if the details of your club are pudated. If your club is not listed yet, doors are open to get more clubs in the WASPA rankings.

Another reminder, to make things better, we have decided to carry on a survey to collect ideas and opinions about the WASPA circuit. If you have a few minutes, please be kind enough to answer the WASPA survey. Your opinion is very important! Thanks in advance for your answers!

Link to the survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc9tOy4YTcg0b0gqPEmtlJnLCX5fP0Cw7ZJhwoUfk5ZtU914A/viewform?usp=sf_link

Juniors at the recent Johannesburg tournament

Well, that's all for now. Please remember you only need 3 players to register your tournament. Don't be scared to join. It's free and tournament requests can be sent by e-mail to vincent.cop@rsca.com

Please invite your friends to join our Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/waspasubbuteo/

We also have a WASPA page here: https://www.facebook.com/WASPA-World-Amateur-Subbuteo-Players-Association-231789816834700/

Keep in mind WASPA is also looking for partners. If you know any company ready to support us (we don’t ask for money but we want some win-win agreements so that we can promote each  other), don't hesitate to contact me at vincent.cop@rsca.com or vincentcoppenolle@gmail.com

Have a great week-end.

Vincent Coppenolle, vincentcoppenolle@gmail.com

Victory Kits is a new WASPA partner

 

We are pleased to annouce that the WASPA circuit has a new partner. Victory Kits, a company run by Daniel Lilley in England, will offer a discount to all Subbuteo clubs ordering shirts. Please dont forget to mention WASPA when you order Custom Kits. Good luck to Victory Kits for this great project.

Charles Aquilina winner in Malta

Bormla Subbuteo Club added another tournament in the list of the "2020 Christmas cups". The event was played by 8 players on December 29 ans Charles Aquilina took the honors after defeating John Zammit (2-1) in the final. Josef Camilleri and Mauro camilleri were the semi-finalists. Thanks to Josef and his clubmates for another good event. We hope to see more action under WASPA banner in Malta in 2021.

WASPA wishes for the New year

Hi everybody, it's time to wish you a great year 2021. Even if the last few months have been complicated for our clubs and players, we must think positive and focus on the future!

2020 was a great year as we have seen a huge development of the circuit in England and Wales, the come back of Norway, huge activities in Australia, a stronger organisation in South Africa, big motivation from new clubs in Greece, great events in nations such as the Netherlands, Malta, Singapore, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Austria, Ireland, Gibraltar,... Canada also confirmed to be an important nation in the Subbuteo scene and the USA had tournaments in many different states.

The lockdown and been a great time to get new contacts with many players in many different countries and we are sure we'll see many new clubs and players competing under WASPA banner in the future!

We are convinced there will be many positive developments as we have seen renewed interest for the game in many places and a lot of clubs are showing interest to join the WASPA circuit!

We stay at your disposal for any question regarding the game and the circuit and we really hope many tournaments will be organized in 2021. If you have suggestions to improve the circuit, your ideas are always welcome. We also hope to see more nations hosting WASPA events as we think we can do much more in South America, Portugal, Spain and France for instance.

Let's wait for better days and once things are back to normal, we are sure the WASPA scene will remain the largest table football circuit on the planet!

Vincent Coppenolle, WASPA organizer
vincentcoppenolle@gmail.com

Third annual Christmas Binge Cup WASPA Tournament

For the third year running, Western Sydney Subbuteo hosted the 'Christmas Binge Cup' to fill up the dead space between Christmas and New Year. A bumper crowd of 11 players, ranging from absolute beginners right up to the president of FISTF turned out to the temporary (COVID friendly) 'Clubhouse In The Carport' for the tournament. With players all donning masks following the recent outbreak in the Northern Beaches (there were a few doubtful looks cast in the direction of our visiting 'northern' falcons throughout the afternoon) a Swiss system was played out, guaranteeing every player would play most of their games against opponents of a similar level. A range of pitches were used, including the début of the Table Football Monthly Muddy Pitch™, which some players enjoyed more than (vocally complaining) others.

The randomly drawn opening round saw things going as predicted, with Steve, Adrian, Eliot and Geoff taking early wins. The second round proved much tighter, with 3 draws and two 1-0 results to keep all players tight on the table. Round three is where things really settled into a distinct pattern, with dark horse, Geoff, who had already had a win as well as a draw against top ranked player, Eliot, shooting to the top of the table with a victory over Steve. Meanwhile, Tim, playing in his first ever tournament outside of school, registered his first win, while Paul, predictably, played out yet another goalless draw to add to his collection.

The final round began with no fewer than 5 players still in reach of the title. Steve put his previous game behind him to come and shatter Eliot's chances of taking the prize, while Adrian did his bit to have a slim chance with a win over Othniel. In hindsight, those results meant that Ethan and Geoff's game was actually a play-off for the tournament honours - Geoff came out victorious to place himself clearly on top of the table. Meanwhile, Paul played out another goalless draw, this time against David, playing in his first ever tournament.

A successful day for the visiting Hipfingerz, then, with Geoff taking the title and Daniel putting in a personal best to find himself just behind the frontrunners. But, of course, Subbuteo was the winner - with a friendly, exciting tournament played, new players joining the ranks and a great finish off what has been the weirdest of years for Subbuteo playing.

For photos of the event, go t https://www.facebook.com/media/set?set=oa.414987716340879&type=3

(Report by Adrian Elmer)

WASPA trophies for Brian Pearson, Clifford Graaff and Alan Lee

Here is a brief summary of some small events held under WASPA banner in Australia, South Africa and England.

In Australia the Perth club had a great turnout with 7 players attending the monthly tournament. The local group was happy to see Mick DeVincentis playing his first tournament. Brian Pearson won the event while Alan Kimber was runner-up.

Final table:

1. Brian Pearson 16
2. Alan Kimber 14
3. Hugh Best 11
4. Chris Thorn 7
5. Noel Mani 4
6. Ron Byrne 3
7. Mick DeVincentis 2

Small turnout @ ETS Subbuteo Club for year-end Christmas Cup

Thursday the 17th of December saw ETS Subbuteo Club host their firs ever Christmas Cup which also brought the curtain down on a very successful inaugural season for the newest Subbuteo club in South Africa.

Unfortunately the large turnout was reduced because of various reasons and also the one important nagging fact of this ravaged year called Chinese Covid.

However the three participating players, played a double round against each other with the player ending on top of the standings being crowned as ETS Christmas Cup champion.

The tournament started off with ETS co-founder, Carl Bolweg producing a great equalizing goal just before full-time to snatch a well deserved draw against favourite Clifford Graaff.

Angus Begg and Carl the produced a thrill-a-minute goalless draw in the second game.

Clifford then beat Angus by a solitary goal to record the first three pointer of the evening.

Clifford followed up his victory over Angus by producing a clinical display to score a two nil victory of Carl and place himself top of the standings.

Carl and Angus then produced the game of the evening in a thrilling score draw. Angus got the game off to a scintillating start by laying siege to Carl's goal.

This constant pressure paid off when he blasted a great goal from an acute angle to take the lead. This goal spurred Carl on and some neat inter-play in the midfield resulted in Carl scoring a great chip from just inside the area to set up a pressure filled last few minutes. Play ping ponged from either goal and Angus had a great opportunity at the death only to see his shot canon wide of the goal with only the keeper to beat.

Clifford and Angus squared off in the last game and even though Clifford created some scoring opportunities his final touch let him down and the game ended goalless. This resulted in Clifford claiming the inaugural Christmas title at ETS Subbuteo Club. 

Unfortunately co-founder Jason Kennedy could not attend as he was busy at work.

Speaking on behalf of ETS Subbuteo Club, Carl said that they were very happy with their first season which saw them host three tournaments, two official WASPA sanctioned events and set up a strong base for 2021 which hopefully will prove to be free of the cursed Chinese Covid epidemic. Him, and everybody associated with ETS Subbuteo Club would like to wish everybody a very blessed Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Final table:

1. Clifford Graaff 8 points
2. Angus Begg 3 (-1)
3. Carl Bolweg 3 (-2)

East Lancashire players back in action

Finally, the East Lancashire club had a great night with six players competing in a round robin. Alan Lee won his five games to win the small event. 

The club was also happy to announce the signing of their 14th member, Anthony Culshaw. Welcome Anthony!

Final standings:

1. Alan Lee 15
2. Nick Pearson 12
3. Chris Bedford 9
4. Shawn Dunne 4
5. Gavin Roper 4
6. Rob Wilkinson 0

Clifford takes the Father Christmas Trophy

Sunday the 12th of December saw the Johannesburg TFC aka 'The Joburg Eagles' host their last Subbuteo tournament for 2020 in a year that was decimated due to the Chinese Covid 19 Flu.

A field of 10 participants took part to see who could claim the 'Subbuteo Father Christmas Trophy'. Jason Kennedy, chairman of the ETS Subbuteo Club, brough 4 youngsters (all under 12) to participate in the Junior Christmas Challenge. Twins, Nicholas and Daniel Kassner, both in their maiden Subbuteo Tournament proved superior over a strong challenge by the young girls, Jorja and Hannah. Nicholas proved to be the worthy winner by claiming two victories and a draw to claim the junior laurels, followed by his twin brother Daniel, and closely followed by Jorja and Hannah.

The juniors, along with newbies Gavin and Brian, then took part in the Senior Christmas Challenge along with seasoned players Sean, Clifford, Jason and Carl. 

In accordance with the long standing ethos of the Joburg Eagles, when senior players play against the juniors, it takes the form of a training class and the senior players assist and impart tips and hints on Subbuteo play. Suffice to say that there is also an UNWRITTEN rule that NO senior will score more than three goals against our juniors. The Eagles are also proud to say that the latter also applies to novice seniors playing in ALL our tournaments. Fun and enjoyment are the main ingredients and this leads to enjoyment by ALL the players. Pre-tournament favourite and 3rd seeded in the November WASPA world rankings, Sean Morgan and Jason Kennedy, easily qualified from Group A , along with Clifford Graaff and Carl Bolweg.

The semi-finals probably saw the game of the season when Clifford came up against an in-form Jason Kennedy. Clifford took an early lead via a defensive mistake by Jason. However the last two minutes proved why we all love this game so very much. Jason broke down the right and overplayed a ball into the shooting area leaving the only player with any hope of a clear sight way back in his own half of the field. However we all know that this does NOT deter Jason!!! He launched his player that brilliantly connected the ball, on the corner of the penalty box, and produced a replica that 'Hot Shot Hamish' would've been proud of to send the ball past a bewildered Clifford much to the delight of all present. Clifford, from the resultant kick-off broke down the right and some close control touches enabled him to fire a shot that sneaked in at the near post and score an unlikely winner with TWO seconds left on the timer. Clifford admitted after the game that the equalizing goal by Jason ranks as the best goal he has ever conceded. 

The second semi saw an in form Sean lay down the gauntlet with a near perfect display and beat an ever improving Carl by three goals to nil.

As a curtain-raiser to the Final, Fason and Carl flicked off in the Third/Fourth Place Play-off with Jason securing yet another 3rd Place in a WASPA Tournament with a clinical two nil triumph. The Final pitted good friends and adversaries Sean and Clifford against each other in yet another Final.

Sean grabbed the early iniative, however Clifford came back strong towards the end of the game. However, the Final ended in a goalless stalemate, and the dreaded penalty shoot-out followed.

Sean won the toss and bravely chose to shoot first. This seemed a great idea as his first flick produced a great chip from out wide to see the ball nestle in the top corner of the goal. 1 Nil to Sean.

With the pressure on Clifford, he replicated Sean's great strike and neatly chipped the ball over Seans keeper to equalize. 1 All.

Sean once again produced a great second penalty with a trade mark chip to take a vital lead. 2 - 1 to Sean. With the pressure on Clifford to match Sean, his second penalty was brilliantly saved by Sean to set up a great advantage with 3 flicks left. 

Sean's third flick was wonderfully saved by Clifford's keeper as he tipped the shot over the bar. Clifford responded with a neat equalizing penalty that saw the ball chipped over Sean's keeper. 2 All With the pressure now reverting back to Sean, he had to slot his fourth flick to maintain his advantage. However this was not to be as another great save by Clifford kept the ball out of the net.

Clifford now had the first opportunity to take the lead in the shoot-out. He did not waste the opportunity as he calmed chipped the keeper to take a 3-2 lead with only one remaining flick for each player.

With immense pressure on Sean to stay alive in the Final, his final flick was tipped by Clifford's keeper onto the cross-bar and roll away to safety. 3 - 2 penalty win for Clifford.

The above penalty shoot-out capped an awesome day of Subbuteo action, fun and great goals. Everybody was also treated to some great pizzas, snacks and a specially baked Subbuteo Cake featuring Subbuteo players on a muddy 'chocolate' field. A great way to end off the seaon by the Joburg Eagles.

Everbody associated with the Joburg Eagles wish one and all, a very Merry and Blessed Christmas, and may the true Christmas Spirit manifest itself to everyone as this dark year draws to a most welcome conclusion.

If travelling, please go carefully as we wish to see you all back and flicking in a Chinese Covid-free 2021!!!!!!

Merry Christmas/ Geseende Kersfees !!!!!!!!

(Report by Clifford Graaff)

Giuseppe Tardiota wins again in Brisbane

The Brisbane club was meeting again on Sunday and the monthly tournament had six players competing for glory. It was another good day of play with many close games but in the end, Giuseppe tardiota managed to win another trophy. The good news is U15 player James Gillespie was back in action and probably the local group will see his brother Will playing as well next year.

James Gillespie

Giuseppe Tardiota

Final standings:

1. Giuseppe Tardiota
2. Kevin Halliday
3. Gus Gillespie
4. Gareth Whalley
5. Wayne Miller
6. James Gillespie.

South Africa: Tokai Christmas Cup

Mike rues another missed opportunity

Yesterday (Sat 12th Dec) saw only the second event in Cape Town in the strange year that is 2020. Straight from our ‘New Year tournament’ in January, to our Christmas Cup event 11 months later.

It was a small, informal gathering of 4 friends, but so nice to play a few games again! It was also great to welcome Dave back after a year or two of focusing on stadium building.

RESULTS
Mike v Dave 2-0, 2-0
John v Clinton 1-2, 1-1
Mike v John 0-1, 1-1
Clinton v Dave 3-2, 1-1
John v Dave 2-0, 1-0
Mike v Clinton 2-3, 1-1

Dave during the penalty shoot-out

3rd / 4th place play-off:
Mike v Dave 0-0, pens 3-2

Final:
John v Clinton 0-1

(Report by Clinton Gahwiler)

Benji Batten wins the Christmas Cup

Benji Batten lifting the trophy

 
Things are almost back to normal in Australia where the club of Sydney TFC held the traditional "Christmas Cup" on Saturday with 12 players coming from different clubs of the city and Benji batten travelling from Melbourne to play some competitive games after a long break. Benji Batten was on fire as he won the tournament after convincing wins against Torben Pfister (4-0) and Jonty Brener (3-0) in the group stage, Kostas Barbaris in quarter-final (6-1), Fabrizio Coco in semi-final (2-1) and Tony Credentino in the final (2-0). Torben Pfister was the other semi-finalist of the tournament while Geoff Sirmai won the consolation tournament. It was nice also to see Boni Sg representing Brazil during the event. Boni is a new member of Sydney TFC and will hopefully attend more events in the future.

Some other results from Australia deserve a mention. In October, tournaments were organized by the clubs of Perth and Northern Falcons. In Perth, Singapore's Tan Yew Loy finished on top of a group of 7 to win the event. The final standings were as follows (all Subbuteo Perth players unless noted):

1. Tan Yew Loy
2. Alan Kimber
3. Brian Pearson
4. Ross McNulty
5. Hugh Best (Sports TFC of Western Australia)
6. Ron Byrne
7. Chris Thorn

At the Northern Falcons tournament, six players competed in two groups with semi-finals and a final. Fabrizio Coco (Sydney TFC) defeated clubmate Tony Credentino (2-0) in the final to win the title. Semi-finalists were Steve Dettre and Eliot Kennedy.

Thanks to the different clubs in Australia for the great work and for giving great games to their members. Hopefully more tournaments will be organized in Australia in the near future.