Getting lots of feedback both here, on FB and in private. Thanks, everyone!
A few responses to what I am reading here:
@ architect:
Yes, that is the right general idea, different events at different places. Of note, if ACPR and Al's Christmas party, are at the same location (ie Al's garage), I'd consider picking one or the other at Al's place. I am thinking that having unique places allows for different games, and setups, but there is nothing currently in writing prohibiting multiple events at one place as long as it doesn't exceed the allotted amount for the region-3 currently. I am trying to avoid any one venue or geographic location from dominating the circuit.
@ NormaJ:
The exact number is not set, but if anything, I would say it could be TOO LOW (especially if Tallahassee adds some events). The most important things for this to initially be "fair" are 1) there is an equal distribution per region, 2) the tourneys are spread out per year, and 3) people have a shot without committing to "just the majors" or only having just 1 or 2 shots in their region.
Maybe the idea is best X out of Y (best 15 out of 20 for example) so people can miss a few events and not be hurt. Still thinking here....
Now, will there be politicking and complaining? Yes. That is going to happen no matter what. But I think this is a very good idea for our state, especially since we as a state are already doing most of the leg work. Meaning: we in Florida have events all over the state and every single month. Look how far we have progressed !
As far as picking the events, I have reached out to, and am hoping to hear from various TDs in each region. Maybe there is a voting process for the players in that region, maybe the community as a whole (ie the state votes).
I am open to suggestions on how to pick. I DO NOT necessarily want to be the one saying what is or is not a Florida Pinball Circuit Event. I need player feedback
I am NOT trying to invent new tourneys that compete with the existing. Things that already exist should be considered. There are lots of IFPA events to choose from. Like @ architect suggested: Cafe, One, Als' for example. Just look at the repeat venues on the IFPA list.
Regarding a winner getting an automatic entry,
maybe. But that means 18 potential automatics. None of those winners would have any incentive to explore the remaining circuit. I am thinking if someone is playing in the Circuit Championship, someone has played in various spots in the state. Again, it is not necessary to travel to every single event, but intuitively it should have to be more than one.
Regarding what events are "greater", the idea is that all events are equal in the circuit series with the same amount for each region. A small afternoon get together will award as much as a 3-day show. This format will encourage more people to check out local mom and pop events they might not otherwise attend. They award the same Florida Circuit points (but probably different WPPR points). It is possible that a Florida Pinball Circuit event now draws more players than the tourney would have normally.
@ Raikus:
Yes, I'd love to see more events up your way. It would encourage some people to travel and explore your venue for sure! Let me know and please post on FB pages.
@ MilitiaMan:
Cool ! The Circuit schedule is certainly in its infancy. If the players decide they want JAX to be in the Florida Pinball Circuit, that could work. As I said, I was initially thinking of trying to avoid shows that will attract out of state players, because I am thinking Florida Circuit points should go to Florida players. Again, thinking out loud here. I will certainly promote and support the JAX show no matter what ! Please consider posting on the Florida Tournament Pinball FB Page.
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Anyway, thank you everyone, looking forward to furthering the discussion.
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